Here are some tips to decide if you should use the website in your paper
Currency: Is there a 'last updated' date or a recent copyright date? Are the articles and reports found on the website somewhat recent? Are the links functional?
If no: AVOID this site
Relevancy: Is there information on the website related to your topic? Is it written in a way intended for someone at a University-level (vs. elementary school or experienced medical professional)?
If no: AVOID this site
Authority: Who is/are the authors of the site? If it is an organization do they have an about page? Is there a way to contact the organization/author? What information can you find about the author organization from a third party source? Do the authors have a PhD, MD, or expert credentials on the topic?
If no: RECONSIDER using this site
Tip: If the URL ends in .gov then you can be confident that this is a Government website which you can trust
Accuracy: How do you know you can trust the information? Is there a working reference list (links actually go to a reputable source)? Does the website provide citations? Are the authors experts in their field? Is the website free of typos, spelling mistakes and bad grammar?
If no: RECONSIDER using this site
Purpose: Why did someone create this site? Are they trying to entertain, sell, motivate, convince, exploit their readers? Is the website full of advertisements, angry commentary, unprofessional writing, and requests for money?
if yes: AVOID this site
