The process of how information is created matters. Different fields of study consider different types of process creation valid and credible, so it’s important to understand what makes information credible in the field you are researching and writing about.
In science, credible information is usually only generated by the scientific method. This means conducting experiments, carefully compiling the results, publishing them, and having other scientists recreate your experiment to see if they get the same results.
In the humanities, credible information is more general and theoretical. Ideas are considered credible if they come from experts in the field, are shared by many in the field, prove to be true over time, or are based on field research or observation.
In business, credible information is information that makes money or otherwise results in success.
In math, credible information is information that can be fully explained by mathematical proof.
In all disciplines, after a scholar creates information, that information is peer reviewed by other experts in the field, then published in reputable journals and other publications. Sometimes this information is also published in newspapers, magazines, or on the internet, but these forms of publication might not be complete or totally accurate. You have access to all the full articles that you need in the library databases.
In all fields of study, peer review is the gold standard of credibility. Peer review means that after one scholar in a discipline has written something, several other experts in that field read it, edit it, comment on it, and ultimately state that they agree with it.
If other scientists agree with your findings, they are most likely credible. If other scholars agree with your humanities arguments, they are most likely credible. If other mathematicians can also prove your concept, it is most likely credible. The repetition and stamp of approval from peer experts is key.
There are always new and emerging processes for information creation. The biggest one emerging at the moment is Artificial Intelligence, or computer-generated information. It’s important to understand that sometimes credibility is ambiguous and difficult to decipher - particularly in emerging areas. If you have questions about the credibility of a source, reach out to your instructor or to a librarian.