How to Tell if a Source Is Scholarly

Declan Gessel

May 28, 2024

woman learning How to Tell if a Source Is Scholarly

You must rely on accurate information when researching a topic or writing a paper. But how can you tell if a source is scholarly? Using the CRAAP Test, you can evaluate a source's credibility, relevance, authority, accuracy, and purpose. This guide will provide the essential guidelines to determine if a source is scholarly, so keep reading to become a pro at assessing sources!

What Are Scholarly Sources?

person making notes on side - How to Tell if a Source Is Scholarly

Scholarly sources are reliable publications written by experts to share research and advance knowledge in a specific field. These sources include journal articles, academic books, and reports from credible institutions.

Why Use Scholarly Sources?

Scholarly sources undergo a rigorous process, like peer review, to ensure reliable and verifiable information. They provide a deeper understanding of a topic with evidence, data, and different perspectives and are essential for backing up claims and arguments in academic writing.

Key Characteristics of Scholarly Sources

person examing a source - How to Tell if a Source Is Scholarly

Authorship

Experts in their respective fields write scholarly sources. Authors are typically affiliated with universities or research institutions, lending credibility to their work. These authors often mention their qualifications in the publication to establish their expertise.

Publication

Scholarly sources can be found in peer-reviewed journals, university presses, and reports from reputable organizations. Peer-reviewed journals are crucial as they undergo a rigorous review process by field experts to ensure the content's quality and accuracy. University presses publish scholarly books, and reports from government agencies or professional organizations are also considered reputable sources.

Content

Scholarly sources are characterized by citations and references, which credit the information presented. They maintain objectivity, presenting balanced arguments without bias. Scholarly sources rely on data and evidence, utilizing research, statistics, and factual information to support their claims. These sources are typically longer and more in-depth compared to popular sources.

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Tips for Evaluating Sources

woman reading a newspaper How to Tell if a Source Is Scholarly

Use Library Databases

Always start with a library database. These systems have built-in filters that remove non-scholarly sources from your search results. Starting your research here will streamline your process and save you precious time.

Check for Peer-Review

When you find a source you’re interested in, look for information about the peer-review process. If an article has been peer-reviewed, it’s usually a good sign that the research is solid. If you can’t find any information about peer review, that’s a potential red flag.

Evaluate Objectivity

Bias is a factor in research, and it’s something that should be considered when you’re evaluating a source. If the source is incredibly biased, that’s something you should consider while conducting your research. That doesn’t mean you should automatically dismiss a biased source. However, it does mean you must be aware of that bias and consider how it may affect your research.

Consider the Date

A source's publication date is essential, particularly in fast-changing fields. If you come across a source that’s five years old, that research may no longer be accurate. On the other hand, if you come across a source that’s a week old, that information is probably still reliable.

It is important to note that each source is a piece of a much larger puzzle. The key is to find the best pieces available. Collecting these pieces is the way forward in the research process.

5 Benefits of Using Scholarly Sources

Let’s dive into the Benefits of Using Scholarly Sources:

Develop Critical Thinking Skills

One of the most significant benefits of reading scholarly sources is the opportunity to develop critical thinking skills. When I evaluate information from credible sources, I can sharpen my ability to analyze and assess evidence. This critical thinking skill is crucial for forming my opinions, making informed decisions, and evaluating the validity of various sources.

Gain Exposure to the Latest Research

Another benefit of using scholarly sources is staying current with the latest research in my field of interest. Credible sources keep me informed about recent advancements and discoveries, ensuring that I am knowledgeable about current trends and developments. This exposure to cutting-edge research can also inspire new ideas and avenues for exploration within my field.

Build a Strong Knowledge Foundation

Scholarly sources provide a solid base for understanding complex topics and forming my research questions. Using reliable sources, I can build a strong knowledge foundation supporting my learning and academic pursuits. This foundation allows me to delve deeper into topics, explore new concepts, and better understand the subject matter at hand.

Enhance the Credibility of Your Work

Research papers and projects backed by scholarly sources are more persuasive and demonstrate a strong foundation in your field. Using credible sources, You can enhance the work's credibility and demonstrate expertise in a given subject area. This credibility can help me gain the trust of my audience, whether it's my professor, peers, or other professionals in my field.

Foster Deeper Learning

Scholarly sources often delve deeper into topics, encouraging a more thorough understanding and exploration of ideas. When I use academic sources, I am exposed to detailed analyses, in-depth discussions, and critical examinations of various topics. This deeper learning experience allows me to engage with the material more profoundly, leading to a more comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

Frequently Asked Questions on How to Tell if a Source Is Scholarly

books on a desk - How to Tell if a Source Is Scholarly

How can you tell if a website is a scholarly source?

Scholarly websites often have some key characteristics:

Affiliation

Look for websites connected to universities, research institutions, or reputable organizations. These sites are more likely to be overseen by experts and follow rigorous research standards.

Content

Focus Scholarly websites typically delve deeper into topics, providing in-depth analysis, data, and evidence to support their claims. They also tend to use citations and references to acknowledge sources of information.

Objectivity

Unlike some popular websites, scholarly sources strive to present balanced and objective information, avoiding personal opinions or biases.

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Aren't there benefits to using non-scholarly sources like news articles or blogs?

Absolutely! Non-scholarly sources can be valuable for:

Current Events

News articles can be a great way to stay updated on recent happenings and breaking news.

General Information

Blogs and websites can offer interesting perspectives and insights on various topics, sparking curiosity and exploration.

Accessibility

Non-scholarly sources are often written in a more conversational style, making them easier for a general audience to understand.

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