Which statement about evaluating sources is the least trustworthy?

• A. Checking the author's credentials.
• B. Cross-referencing with other sources.
• C. Assessing the evidence underlying claims.
• D. Accepting information that confirms your preconceptions.

Answer: (D)

Evaluating sources relies on credibility, corroboration, and solid evidence. The statement that is least trustworthy is the one that says to accept information just because it confirms what you already believe. This is confirmation bias at work, which skips critical checking and cherry-picks facts to fit a viewpoint, making the conclusion unreliable.

Trustworthy practices include checking the author's credentials to judge expertise and potential biases, cross-referencing with other sources to see if independent accounts agree, and assessing the evidence that underlies claims—looking at data, methods, and reasoning rather than taking statements at face value. When you rely on solid credentials, seek corroboration, and require clear supporting evidence, you build a more accurate, fair understanding of the topic.