There a lot of informational websites available on the Internet. However, for every informational website there is a website that is factually incorrect and provides misleading information. This is why it is important to know the source of the website before determining if the website should be deemed factually correct or incorrect. Here’s a look at how to determine if the website source is a credible source or one that should be taken with care.
Background. Consider the background of the person that is writing the website. Does the person have a background in the information that they are providing? If so, what makes this person and expert in the field that they are writing about. Considering these items will allow you to determine if the site is factually correct or there could be inconsistencies.
Motive. Try to determine the motive for the person putting up the website. Is the motive of the website to inform or is it trying to sell you something? Generally websites that are designed to sell you something will often try to portray facts in a light that will not appear unbiased or factually correct. Determining the motive of the website will allow you to determine if the facts presented are unbiased and factually correct or if there is a slant given to the information provided.
Resources. Websites that provide factually correct information will often have a resources section. This section will provide you with resources to websites, medical journals or physical books where he could further check out the information in basis for the information provided. If no resource section is provided you should take caution with the facts that are provided as they may not be based in factual information.
Determining what the background of the sources, what the motive of the website is or where the information comes from will allow you to determine if the website presents factual information that you could use as a basis for researching.


