Skip to Main Content
Mobile Menu Close Go back

English 1020: Websites

This guide is designed to help you find academic sources for your English 1020 papers, as well as assist you in correctly citing your sources in MLA style.

Evaluating Websites

When searching for resources on the Web think about CABLE!

  • C  Currency
  • A  Authority
  • B  Bias
  • L  Level
  • E  Explore
Currency - Knowing when the Website was created can help you judge the quality of the information found there.  Some information (such as historical facts) will not change, but other information (like stock quotes) changes daily.  

Authority - Knowing about the author of the information is useful.  Is the author an expert in his/her field?  Check the domain name, as it can offer identifying information about the site.

Bias - Think about the purpose of the site.  Is there a position/opinion presented?  Also, notice any sites that are linked to it.

Level - Even if a site has useful information, it doesn't necessarily mean that it is appropriate for college-level work.  Ask yourself the following questions:  Is the site popular of scholarly?  Is the information correct?  Is the research well-supported?

Explore - It is important to explore further!  Did you verify the information in at least one additional source?  Did you investigate the author or publisher of the site?  Did you find reviews, criticism, or rankings of the Websites?

Concept Refresher - Web Search Strategies

Using the Web

If you have questions after you have tried the strategies outlined in this guide, ask for research assistance at the InfoHub located on the Library's main level near the front door. 

Ask A Librarian

To view chat hours, submit an e-mail question, or view other contact options, please visit the Ask the InfoHub webpage.

APSU Writing Center located in the Library

Writing Center logo

The Writing Center is located on the main floor of the Library, just past the Research Assistance Desk.

The Center provides FREE writing support to APSU students.  Tutors work one-on-one with students on any paper.