What Makes a Good Source? A Quick Checklist

Strong debates lean on sources. Weak sources lose arguments, even when the point is right. Here is the checklist I use before I quote something.

• Who published it? Look for a named author or organisation that is accountable for mistakes.
• When? A figure from ten years ago may no longer be true.
• Where did they get it? Good sources say how they know. Follow the link back to the original.
• Does anyone else say the same? One source is a claim. Two independent ones are a pattern.
• Is it trying to sell me something? That does not make it wrong, but it is worth knowing.

Thirty seconds of checking can save you a very public correction.