Type of Information Source

Strong Points

Reference (encyclopedias, almanacs, dictionaries, etc.)

• Good starting points because they provide short background information that makes more specific information understandable
• Have hard facts, such as statistics, formulas, definitions, etc.
• Objective, unbiased information

Books

• In-depth analysis
• Written by experts
• Give historical perspectives

Periodical Articles

• Emphasize current information usually
• Sources of latest research
• Good for local information (newspapers)
• Frequently include articles stressing opinions

World Wide Web (this refers to the "public" part, where anyone can post information)

• Difficult to list strong points because almost every type of information--good and bad--is available
• Especially useful for very current news and for "alternative" ideas
• Good for local information
• Good for pictures