CARS Checklist

	Credibility		If a source is credible, it is: trustworthy, has the author's credentials, there is evidence of quality control, it is a known or respected authority, it has organizational support. Goal: An authoritative source, a source that supplies some good evidence that allows you to trust it. Some questions to ask to check credibility: - Is there sufficient evidence presented to make the argument persuasive? - Are there compelling arguments and reasons given? - Are there enough details for a reasonable conclusion about the information?
	Accuracy		If a source is accurate, it is: up to date, factual, detailed, exact, comprehensive, and its audience and purpose reflects intentions of completeness and accuracy. Goal: A source that is correct today (not yesterday), a source that gives the whole truth. Some indicators that may mean the source is inaccurate: - No date on the document. - Assertions that are vague or otherwise lacking detail. - Sweeping rather than qualified language (using words such as always, never, every, etc.) - An old date on information known to change rapidly. - A very one-sided view that does not acknowledge opposing views or respond to them.
	Reasonableness		If a source is reasonable, it is: fair, balanced, objective, reasoned, no conflict of interest, there is an absence of fallacies or slanted tone. Goal: A source that engages the subject thoughtfully and reasonably, concerned with the truth. Some clues to indicate a lack of reasonableness: - Tone of language ("stupid jerks"). - Overclaims ("Thousands of children are murdered every day in South Africa.") - Statements of excessive significance ("This is the most important idea ever") - Conflict of interest ("Welcome to the Tobacco Company Home Page. To read our report, "Cigarettes Make You Live Longer." click here.)
	Support		If a source is valid, it will have: listed sources, contact information, available corroboration, its claims supported, documentation supplied. Goal: A source that provides convincing evidence for the claims made, a source you can triangulate (find at least two other sources that support it). Some source considerations include these: - Where did this information come from? - What sources did the information creator use? - Are the sources listed? - Is there a bibliography or other documentation attached? - Does the author provide contact information? - What kind of support for the information is given? - How does the writer know this?

(Source adapted: McGraw-Hill Higher Education)