By the Author

Before you use an author's work, find out about his/her:

  • Academic or professional credentials - does s/he have a Master's or PhD degree in the topic? Does s/he hold a license in a particular field?
  • Published record — has s/he published other books, articles, or Web sites on the topic?
  • Credibility with peers — what do others in the field think about the author's work?

Short biographical information about the author — where s/he works, academic credentials, other notable books and articles s/he has written, etc. — is usually contained in the book. If not, librarians can help you find out more about an author as well as what s/he has written.

5.2 Look at your book. What kind of information have you found about the author that indicates it is a good resource to use? Explain your answer.