In evaluating a book for use in a research project, ask the following questions:
WHO
- Who gathered the included information, wrote the book’s contents, and subsequently edited & published it?
- Is the book’s author (or authors) a knowledgeable expert in the field? Can you trust him/her?
- Who are the intended readers of the book? Are they the general public, professional academics/researchers, or high school/college students?
WHEN
- When was the information contained in the book gathered, compiled, and presented?
- Has the book been updated in a revised edition since first being published?
- Is the information in the book consistent with and reflective of recent events in the field?
HOW
- How does the book accomplish its mission of providing clear, accurate information on the topic?
- Are its sources available in a bibliography or resource list?
- Does the information presented contradict other reliable sources?
- Does the author (or authors) explain the research methods used to gather data?
WHAT
- What does this book add to your knowledge of the topic?
- Does it provide an overview or historical background?
- Does it cover the details of your topic in the proper depth?
- Does it focus on details that do not appear to be useful to your topic?
WHY
- Why was this book written?
- Does it advance a social, political, or professional agenda?
- Does it attempt to project a personal point of view?
- Does it attempt to change the reader’s point of view?
- Does the author (or authors) employ emotionally charged language?
- Does the book present information documented by valid evidence and allow the reader to draw his/her own conclusions?
- Is the presentation of included material objective or is it biased in some way?