Credible Sources

Definition

Credible sources are materials that provide reliable and trustworthy information, often used to support arguments or claims in writing. These sources are essential in argumentative writing as they enhance the legitimacy of the writer's perspective and help persuade the audience by grounding claims in verified data and expert opinions. The use of credible sources also reflects the writer's integrity and commitment to presenting accurate information.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Credible sources often come from reputable publishers, academic institutions, or established organizations, ensuring their reliability.
2. In argumentative writing, integrating credible sources strengthens the argument by providing solid evidence that supports claims made by the writer.
3. Evaluating a source's credibility involves checking for author expertise, publication date, publisher reputation, and potential bias.
4. Using outdated or non-credible sources can weaken an argument and diminish the writer's authority on the subject matter.
5. Citing credible sources properly is crucial in avoiding plagiarism and maintaining academic integrity in writing.

Review Questions

• How do credible sources influence the effectiveness of an argument in writing?
  • Credible sources significantly enhance the effectiveness of an argument by providing reliable evidence that supports the writer's claims. When a writer uses reputable sources, it builds trust with the audience and demonstrates that the argument is grounded in factual information. This reliance on credible sources not only persuades readers but also establishes the writer's authority and expertise on the topic.
• What criteria should be considered when evaluating whether a source is credible for argumentative writing?
  • When evaluating a source's credibility for argumentative writing, several criteria should be considered: the author's expertise in the subject matter, the reputation of the publisher or organization, the publication date to ensure relevance, and any potential bias that may affect how information is presented. By thoroughly assessing these factors, writers can determine if a source is trustworthy and appropriate for supporting their arguments.
• Discuss the consequences of using non-credible sources in argumentative writing and how it affects the overall argument.
  • Using non-credible sources in argumentative writing can severely undermine the overall argument by introducing inaccurate or misleading information. This not only weakens the writer's position but may also lead to a loss of credibility with readers. Additionally, reliance on questionable sources can result in challenges regarding plagiarism or misrepresentation of facts. Overall, it creates doubt about the validity of the argument and negatively impacts how the audience perceives both the content and the writer.

Related terms

Peer-Reviewed Journals: Academic publications that have undergone a rigorous evaluation process by experts in the field before publication, ensuring the quality and credibility of the research presented.

Primary Sources: Original materials or evidence created at the time of an event or by someone directly involved, such as interviews, official documents, or firsthand accounts, which provide valuable insights and direct evidence.

Bias: A tendency to favor one perspective over others, which can undermine the credibility of a source by distorting facts or presenting unbalanced views.