Two ways to search the pages of this website
The pages of this site are indexed on Google and other search engines. If you'd like to try a
different way, then here are two search engines that will give you results for just this
site.
Put keywords or a phrase in one of the boxes and then click on "Find" or
"Search."
Complete index of pages on this website
How Credible Is This Webpage?
Can I Trust the Information on This Website?
Determining the credibility of information on a webpage is crucial in today's digital age,
where misinformation and fake news abound. Here are some ways to assess the credibility of information on a webpage:
- Source Evaluation:
- Check the domain: Is it a reputable domain, such as .edu, .gov, or .org? These domains are
usually associated with educational institutions, government entities, or non-profit organizations,
respectively. Note: This webpage you are reading is on a .edu site.
- Investigate the author: Look for information about the author's qualifications, expertise, and
credentials. Are they an expert in the field they're discussing?
- Verify the organization: Research the organization or publisher behind the webpage. Are
they known for their credibility and reliability?
- Content Analysis:
- Check for citations and references: Does the webpage provide sources for the information
presented? Are these sources reliable and reputable?
- Assess the tone and language: Is the language neutral and professional, or does it contain
biased or sensationalized language?
- Look for spelling and grammatical errors: High-quality content is usually well-written and
free of errors.
- Fact-Checking:
- Cross-reference information: Verify the facts presented on the webpage by checking them
against multiple reliable sources.
- Use fact-checking websites: Websites like Snopes, FactCheck.org, and PolitiFact can help
verify the accuracy of the information and debunk misinformation.
- Website Design and Functionality:
- Evaluate the design and layout: Does the webpage look professional and well-maintained, or
does it appear outdated or hastily put together?
- Check for contact information: Legitimate websites typically provide contact information,
including an address, phone number, and email address
- Audience and Purpose:
- Consider the target audience: Does the webpage cater to a specific audience or
demographic?
- Is there evidence of bias or a hidden agenda?
- Assess the purpose: Determine if the webpage's primary goal is to inform, entertain, persuade,
or sell a product or service. This can affect the credibility of the information presented.
- Social Proof and Reviews:
- Look for user feedback: Check for reviews, comments, or social media shares related to the
webpage. Do others vouch for its credibility or raise concerns about its accuracy?
By employing these strategies, you can better assess the credibility of information on a
webpage and make informed decisions about its reliability.
-- Howard Culbertson,