Evaluate your search results critically

The reliability of information is especially important in academic work. Sources and facts found online, particularly on social media, may not be accurate. It can also be difficult to understand who created the information, how the conclusions were reached, and whether the content has been checked.

Library databases give access to academic publications such as scholarly articles, conference papers, book chapters, standards, and other research-based materials. In many cases, the quality of these materials has been checked through editorial processes, peer review, or publisher selection.

This does not mean that every source in a database is automatically perfect, or that every internet source is unreliable. However, library databases are a stronger starting point for academic research because they are designed to provide access to credible, traceable, and research-based information.

Publications from universities, educational and research institutions, international organisations, and government agencies are generally considered reliable, both online and in print. Still, each source should be evaluated critically before you use it in your work.