How does applying who, what, when, where, and why questions to the source of your information help your research?

Question

*Applying who, what, when, where, and why questions to the source helps you evaluate and validate your resources.

It helps you understand your topic better.

It helps you evaluate and validate your resources.

It helps you identify the type of resource you are using, thereby ensuring that you have included a variety of resources during your research.

It helps you know and identify the author of the article or document.

Answer 1

Applying who, what, when, where, and why questions to the sources of your information enhances your research in several ways:

1. Evaluation and Validation: These questions allow you to critically assess the credibility and reliability of your sources. For instance, asking "Who authored the source?" helps you determine if the author has the necessary expertise or background to speak on the topic.

2. Understanding the Topic: By analyzing the context around the source (what it discusses, when it was published, where it originated), you can gain a deeper understanding of the topic and how various elements interact.

3. Resource Variety: Knowing what type of source you are using (e.g., primary vs. secondary, scholarly vs. popular) helps you ensure a well-rounded perspective. This diversity enriches your research and supports a more comprehensive analysis.

4. Author Identification: Identifying the author and their credentials provides insights into potential biases and the reliability of the information presented. This understanding is crucial for assessing the quality of the research.

5. Contextual Awareness: Understanding when and where the information was produced helps you assess its relevance to your current research topic. Historical context, for example, can greatly influence interpretations and conclusions.

By applying these questions, you not only ensure the credibility of your sources but also enhance the overall quality and depth of your research.