When it comes to writing a research paper, sources are rarely good or bad; they just may be more or less appropriate than other sources for your particular needs. And whether a source is appropriate depends on what you're using the source for.
This video breaks down some of the different purposes a source might serve in your paper: background, evidence, argument, or method (BEAM). (3 minutes)
Now, consider this: Look at the sources you have so far. Do you have a blend of sources that could be used for background, evidence, arguments to engage with, or methods you could apply? Or do most of your sources just serve one of these functions? (If you don't yet have a mix, you may want to talk to a librarian about how to find varied types of sources to enrich your essay.)
