Here's a breakdown:
Legitimate sources:
* Encyclopedias and dictionaries: These are great for basic definitions, overviews, and factual information. However, they are not usually considered primary sources and may not be up-to-date.
* Textbooks: Provide a good foundation in a topic, but they are often outdated and may not include the most recent research.
* Handbooks and manuals: Can be excellent for specific instructions, guidelines, and standards.
* Bibliographies and indexes: Help you find other sources, but they don't provide the actual information you need.
* Specialized databases: Useful for gathering information on particular topics, but the information needs to be verified with original sources.
Not legitimate sources (unless used carefully):
* Wikipedia: While a good starting point, it can be inaccurate or biased, and anyone can edit it.
* Blogs and websites: Information from these sources should be carefully vetted to ensure accuracy and credibility. Look for author credentials, citations, and evidence of fact-checking.
* Social media: Information from social media platforms is unreliable and should not be used as a source.
The key is to consider the purpose of the reference material and its reliability. Ask yourself:
* Is the information accurate and up-to-date?
* Is the source credible and unbiased?
* Is the information relevant to your research question?
Always cite your sources! Even if you're using reference materials, you need to cite them properly to give credit to the original authors and show the reader where you got your information.
In general, reference materials can be a good starting point for research, but they should not be your only source. You should always consult primary sources to verify information and ensure accuracy.