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green rule
Relevance: is the coverage of the information complete?

Be aware that information sources can vary in terms of their coverage of a topic. 
A good way to get an overview of coverage is by browsing the material. Check the table of contents, index, or abstract/summary, if available. Note whether an information source adds to other information you have used or gathered.
Ask yourself the following:
  • How extensively does this source cover your topic in terms of time? 
  • How extensively does this source cover your topic in terms of geography?
  • How extensively does this source cover your topic in terms of specificity?
  • How extensively does this source cover your topic in terms of point of view?
  • Is the information complete or abridged?
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green rule
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Adapted with permission from Oasis, San Francisco State University http://oasis.sfsu.edu


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