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Tips for evaluating books

Year of Publication
Although currency is a criterion, don't discard an older work which may be seminal or a classic -- or right on target for your topic. Remember that many original works or primary sources written by theorists tend to be much older. Check with your faculty!

 

Edition
Many printings or editions may indicate that the work has been well accepted. Revisions and updates may reflect changes in knowledge and may include previously omitted material (or exclude previously included material). Sometimes there is dramatic differences between editions, other times not.

 

Publisher
Is the publisher a professional association or organization, an academic or university press, the government, or a commercial agency? Books published by professional groups or academic presses are more likely to be scholary. Become familiar with the reputable publishers in your field. Ask your faculty for suggestions.

 

Citation Count
Has this work been mentioned by Walden faculty, colleagues, fellow students? Does it appear in the bibliography of a relevant document?

 

 

 

 

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