Evaluate the Contents of a Website
  1. What is the most important factor in deciding whether or not to use a website as a source of information?
    • The most important factor is the accuracy of the information.
  2. What are some starting points for searchers who need to find accurate information?
    • You may want to begin with the list below.  It gives the location of some search engines and organizations that offer directories (subject lists) of websites that have been checked, at lease minimally, for accuracy and usefulness. 
  3. Is there any help available for determining if the information is accurate?
    • If the search engine you are using has a directory (subject list), click on the topic closest to your search.  The search engines below have directories or subject lists that are starting points for those who do not feel comfortable evaluating websites on their own. 
  4. What are sponsored links?
    • A sponsored link is one that a company has paid to be listed near the top of the results that a search engine brings.  All the search engines in the list below identify their sponsored links. 

    Here is the list of search engines that offer directories (except where noted):

  5. Remember that YOU must make the final decision  whether or not to trust the information on a website.
    You may want to refer to the Evaluation Checklist tab to assist you in making a decision. 


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