What does establish credibility mean?

Answer

Thank you for the question on establishing credibility.

That phrase could mean one of two things:

1) Students are supposed to establish credibility in a research paper.

  • This means to show the reader knowledge about the topic.
  • Explain how you came to know that information.
  • It could be from personal experience, for example in the workplace.
  • But, most of the time, the way to establish credibility is from using excellent research.
  • Back up statements you make with facts or quotations from experts in that field of knowledge.
  • To do this, use credible sources in the research. This also leads to #2.

2) Find information from sources that have established credibility.

To determine a source's credibility, use the 5 W's below:

  • Who: Who wrote the article/website? Does the author have any credentials or expertise in this field?
  • When: How recent is the information? Has anything happened in this field since the information was published that would make the information no longer true or useful?
  • Where: Where is the information located? Is it from a respected journal? A questionable website? How reliable is this source?
  • Why: Why was this information written? Is it factual? Is is persuasive? Does the author support his/her arguments with sources? Is there a Reference page or a Bibliography of sources?
  • What: What is the point of using this particular source? Does it support the argument?

The Library Resources are considered credible sources for research papers. 

Thank you for using ASK US.

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  • Last Updated Feb 12, 2024
  • Views 23003
  • Answered By Baker Librarians

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