Whether you're in your first semester or completing postgraduate research, finding and using reliable information is an essential academic skill. From journal articles and books to websites and AI tools, there are countless sources available. But before you decide whether a source is useful, accurate, or relevant, there’s an important first step: make sure it actually exists.
With the growing use of AI-powered search tools and content generators, students are increasingly encountering references that look convincing but cannot be verified. Some citations lead nowhere, contain incorrect details, or even refer to sources that were never published.
How can you check?
Before using a source in an assignment:
- Search for it independently using trusted tools such as Library Search, Google Scholar, or the publisher's website.
- Check the key details, including the author, title, publication date, and publication source. These details should be consistent wherever the source appears.
- If a DOI (Digital Object Identifier) is provided, test it using the DOI Foundation's search tool, to ensure it leads to the correct publication.
- Look into the author's profile to confirm they are genuine and connected to the subject area.
Watch for warning signs
Be cautious if:
- You cannot find the source in reputable databases or search tools.
- Citation details are incomplete or inconsistent.
- The author cannot be verified.
- A citation was generated by an AI tool but there is no traceable source behind it.
The golden rule
Only cite sources you have personally found, read, and assessed yourself. Even if a citation appears in another article, website, or AI-generated response, take the time to locate the original source and confirm that it supports the information being presented.
Developing this habit early will strengthen your research skills, improve the quality of your assignments, and help you avoid relying on inaccurate or fabricated information. When in doubt, your library team can help you verify sources and build confidence in your research process.