HOW TO USE AN ONLINE INFORMATION LEGALLY AND CREDIBILY!

1.      Determine the source of the information:

Seek out online sources that have a reputation for reliability. Many websites are sponsored by well-known Organizations, such as major newspapers, that have earned a reputation for integrity. Be wary if the source is completely unfamiliar or has a questionable reputation.

2.      Check if the source is biased:

If the information does not correspond with the main objectives of the website owners, its name and or the things it is registered to do, be careful. Try to know the website owners Organization’s purpose and viewpoint so as to compare it with the information or materials content you want rely on.

3.      Does the information have original source?

Websites and databases draw their information from other sources, such as government, organizations, agencies, corporate body’s websites or blogs. So take your time to evaluate its reputation and potential for biases you use the data. Compare the information with the original source to see additions or contexts.

4.      What is the date of the information:

Check the age of the information and see if changes have occurred in terms of amendment, retraction, innovation, discovery or events. Some events can render information useless in part or wholly. An outdated data that was seasoned at a time, can be junk in the face of new discovery.

5.      What about the relevant law, regulation, policies or rules:

Nothing is static in life; this applies well to laws, rules, policies and regulation which change often depending on changes in government, economy, industry etc. Check if the law, policy, rules and regulation under which the information was made has changed against what is obtainable currently.

6.      Can you verify the source information?

You can use another search engine to scan the internet for the same kind of data provided by at least one other reliable source. Try to find another source to verify the information. The ability to confirm information services as a valuable check on the data’s accuracy and accuracy of its source.

7.      The source information must seem reasonable to you:

Given the other facts you have uncovered on the subject, does this source information seem unreasonable. If so look for other credible sources.

8.      Do not quote word for word:

It will be an offence for you to do so unless you are ready to acknowledge the source by inserting the source website, blog site or authors name, email and publication site.

9.      Do not closely paraphrase:

Plagiarism also apply when you closely paraphrase without disclosing your source. Instead retain the idea, information or data but use it in different words or format.

10.  Never try to repeat series of phrases from the data on the net:

This includes news articles, books, excerpts, surveys, speeches, transcript of online discussions, manuals, thesis, dissertations and any material on web pages sponsored by individuals, corporations, schools, nonprofit groups or government agencies. When in doubt, you can avoid all law suits by simply disclosing your source.