Which of the following are good indicators that an online source is reliable? Select all the options that apply.

Question

The author supports their viewpoint by referring to evidence from other authorities on the subject.   


The author provides their credentials, affiliation and contact information.   


The author relies mainly on their own observations and conveys their message through emotive language.  


The author tells you that the information is reliable.

Answer 1

The following options are good indicators that an online source is reliable:

1. The author supports their viewpoint by referring to evidence from other authorities on the subject.

   • This indicates that the author is backing their claims with credible references.

2. The author provides their credentials, affiliation, and contact information.

   • This adds to the author's credibility and allows readers to verify their qualifications and expertise.

The other options provided are not good indicators of reliability:

• The author relies mainly on their own observations and conveys their message through emotive language.

  • This suggests a lack of objectivity and reliance on personal opinion rather than evidence.

• The author tells you that the information is reliable.

  • This is not a valid indicator of reliability; claims of reliability need to be substantiated by evidence and credible support, not just stated by the author.