Library Research Skills Tutorial About the tutorial
Using Resources

Evaluating

You should evaluate every journal article that you consult during your library research. You need to consider similar issues as when evaluating books and the other sources you have used.

  • Is the article relevant to my research? For example, ensure the content and argument is within the scope of your research.
  • Is the article authoritative? For example, check the author is an expert in the field and that the journal is peer-reviewed and published by a reputable organisation.
  • Is the article accurate? For example, check that the arguments are supported with independent evidence.
  • Is the article current? For example, check that the article was published recently enough to consider any important recent developments.
Elsewhere in this tutorial you can find help on other important aspects of using journals such as copyright issues, photocopying and correct referencing.

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