Which practice most improves the assessment of a source's reliability by focusing on the author's credentials and expertise?

• A. The source is peer-reviewed
• B. Verifying the author's credentials and expertise
• C. The source has a long publication history
• D. The author uses a familiar writing style

Answer: (B)

Evaluating a source's reliability starts with the author's background. When the author has relevant credentials and demonstrated expertise, you have a strong reason to trust their analysis because they’ve received training, possess experience, or hold recognized authority in the topic. This directly supports the accuracy and depth of the information, since the author is positioned to know what counts as evidence and what methods are appropriate.

Peer review can signal credibility, but it reflects a publication process rather than the individual’s qualifications, and a long publication history or familiar writing style doesn’t guarantee accuracy or relevance to the topic. Verifying the author’s credentials and expertise focuses on the most direct evidence of whether the author is qualified to speak knowledgeably about the subject.