5 Tips on How to Critically Evaluate Websites

As students, we are accustomed to critically evaluating articles or academic papers for various classes. However, rarely we are taught how to do the same for websites. In this digital age where paper will soon be made extinct, it is of vital importance to have a basic knowledge and understanding of what to look for when evaluating websites. Thanks to Writing for the E-Media class I was given an opportunity to analyze a website with regards to information architecture and writing theories etc. I’m currently in the process of analyzing/critically evaluating the SLB website. 

When surfing the Web, we usually think about one thing when we log on to a website, whether or not it’s fun. But when browsing the net for academia, we must ensure that what we find is true and up-to-date.

So I’m sure you all are waiting to hear…..

How do I analyze or evaluate websites? Well, here is how…

Ensure your sources are accurate at all times

Lesley University Library has provided us with 5 key areas to review:

1. Purpose – What is the purpose of the site or page? Look for tips in graphics and text. What does the URL (Web address) say about the producer of the web site, and its purpose? Look at the final syllable in the domain name. eg) .gov for government agencies or .edu for educational sites

2. Authority – who is the author and what are his credentials?

3. Appropriateness & Relevance – is the content accurate, well written and complete?

4. Currency – is the page up to date?

5. Accessibility – can the page be easily found & loaded? 

So with this in mind, don’t just go copying from the internet without checking for accuracy. Happy researching 🙂