Skip to Main Content

Dual Credit ENG 151 - SIFT Method for Evaluating Sources

This guide explains how to use the SIFT Method for evaluating sources. SIFT stands for Stop, Investigate the claim, Find better coverage, and Trace back to the original source.

Lateral Reading

Lateral reading is the process of using other sources to help you verify the credibility or accuracy of a source. Watch the short video below (3 min 34 sec) to learn more.

The SIFT Method

The SIFT Method is a four-step process of evaluating a source through lateral reading. This method works well for online formats and popular sources.

SIFT stands for Stop, Investigate the Source, Find Better Coverage, and Trace Back to the Original Source.

Click through the tabs on the left to learn more about each of the four steps.