How to Find Credible Information Online in 4 Easy Steps

We live in a world where people can say anything they want and get away with it. It’s never been easier to create an account on social media and post whatever you want, whenever you want. But what does that mean for our society? How do we know what is true anymore? There are ways to figure out how to find credible information online.  These steps will help you to determine whether or not something is real, and it starts with being a critical thinker.

Step 1: Examine the Source

The first step is to examine the source. If you’re looking at an article, check to see where it’s from. Are they credible information outlets? Have they been published in other places? Are they considered experts in their field by a university or a licensing agency? Checking for these things can help you determine whether or not what you’re reading is true.

Step 2: Look at the Date

The second step is to look at the date that the information was published. Is the article recent? If it’s from years ago, the information might not be relevant anymore. This is especially important when you’re looking at stories about current events. Be aware though, that for some subjects, going back in history and finding information may be a better strategy for finding out the most credible information.

Step 3: Think about your Own Biases

A bias is a way that we think about something that could be unfair to the person, place, thing, or idea. We all have biases, and it’s important to be aware of them. If you’re predisposed to believe something, you might not be as critical of it as you should be. It’s important to step back and look at the information objectively. In fact, it is important that you look for information that may disagree with what you have always thought or believed. That kind of information can lead to you rethinking something and considering a different point of view, especially if experts are involved. By taking in different kinds of information from different sides of an issue, you have a more balanced interpretation and that can reform your biases.

Step 4: Use your Common Sense

If something doesn’t seem right, it probably isn’t. Go with your gut on this one. Just because someone disagrees with you, that does not make them wrong or suspect, but if someone claims something that just doesn’t seem right, then check it out further. Always remember, just because it’s on the internet doesn’t make it true.

One Last Thought about How to Find Credible Information Online

False information is everywhere, but that doesn’t mean you have to believe it. By using your critical thinking skills and these four steps, you can be more certain that you can find the truth.  Here’s another article that may interest you.  It’s titled “5 Facts About Online Learning That Every Parent Needs to Know.”