Answer:
The best way to determine the reliability and validity of a resource is b) by Analyzing the author’s education and professional background.
Step-by-step explanation:
Let's see why. Option a) is wrong because by understanding how was the resource produce we will only know the process without knowing anything else. It is like asking a chef and a brick builder on how to make a cake. Both can have the same recipe and process but only the one with knowledge and experience can provide us a reliable instruction.
c) is wrong because the year the resource was produced won't provide us the validity and reliability. It could be recent but if it wasn't produced by a recognized professional it won't be relevant.
d) is wrong because by only investigating the main idea we won't discover if the person who wrote it had enough preparation to produce it. An engineer could produce a paper about dog treatment for the canine flue, but he doesn't have the preparation and experience required to provide a solid opinion.
b) is right because once we know the producer's background and education we will find out if it is valid and trustworthy to use it.