Evaluating Books - Checklist

PDF version of this checklist

Appropriateness Does the information fit with your course and assignment? _____
  Does the information add to or support your research? _____
Audience Is the level of the book appropriate to your needs? _____
  Is it readable or understandable to you? _____
Scope & Coverage Does the book provide more or less information than you need? _____
  Does the book address your research to the extent you need? Does it cover several topics minimally or one topic in detail? _____
Timeliness Was the information recently published? _____
  Is the information current enough for your research? _____
  Has it been updated or revised? Is there a date to prove that? _____
Authority Is there an author(s) or editor(s) listed? _____
  Is there information about the author's credentials or experience? Does it indicate some expertise on the topic? _____
  Does the author cite sources, include a bibliography or feature a list of references? _____
  Who published the book? Are they reputable? _____
Accuracy Does the book provide documentation for the information provided? _____
  Does the book provide information that contradicts other sources? _____
  Does the book include an explanation of its research methods? _____
Bias Does the book present information in an objective manner? _____
  Are all sides of an issue represented? _____
  Is the book's level of objectivity and bias acceptable for your research? _____
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