Answered By: Stephanie Gillespie
Last Updated: Nov 18, 2020     Views: 4585

Reputable sources (sometimes called reliable sources) rely on the reputation of their publication (ex. newspaper or journal) for having high standards of researching, fact-checking, accountability, and ethical reporting.

Ex. Wall Street Journal or New York Times

Credible sources rely on the expertise of the author to know the topic completely. The author should have a higher degree (master's or doctorate) in the field they are writing.

Ex. A medical doctor writes about the importance of vaccinating children

Scholarly sources are written by experts who have a higher degree in their field and are written for other experts to help them further their research and understanding. They often have a long references list at the end and are sometimes peer-reviewed.

Ex. A medical doctor writes about a study she conducted on overweight mice in an academic journal

Still unsure? Ask a librarian!