The focus of this chapter is learning how to read source material you encounter in research in a critical and analytical way. Being able to evaluate your sources is one of the most important skills you can learn.

The chapter objectives that follow will help you figure out whether you have really mastered the material presented in this chapter.

After reading this chapter and completing its exercises, you should be able to:

1. explain to another student the difference between reading source material and reading it critically and analytically
2. understand how to set up a working bibliography and take effective notes on source material
3. develop summaries of source material, as well as paraphrase and synthesize material you read
4. recognize the difference between a paraphrase and a direct quote and the serious consequences that can result from confusing the two
5. evaluate Internet sources critically

If, as you read through these objectives, you can already tell you need to review the chapter again or work on the exercises provided in the handbook, please do so. Once you feel confident that you have a solid understanding of the material, proceed to the exercises that accompany this chapter on the Website.

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