Final answer:
The ineffective strategy to evaluate a source's reliability is "reading the web address's(.edu, .gov, .com)" end, as it does not guarantee accurate information. Effective methods include checking relevance, recency, citations, and author credibility, as well as corroborating information with other reputable sources.
Step-by-step explanation:
When evaluating a source's reliability, not all strategies are equally effective. Reading the end of the web address, such as .edu, .gov, or .com, is NOT an effective way to evaluate a source's reliability in isolation. Websites with these domain extensions can still host biased or inaccurate information. Conversely, strategies such as checking if the source relates to the research topic, investigating the recency of updates, and looking for a bibliography or end notes contribute significantly to an assessment of reliability. These methods allow you to understand the source's credibility, determine its relevance, and verify the information through corroboration.
Trusted sources typically have clear authorship indicating expertise in the subject, such as scholars or reputable organizations. A source should not only be relevant and current, but it should also provide citations, enabling the reader to check the originality and reliability of the information. Always check for cross-referencing with other credible sources, and do not hesitate to consult with professors, librarians, or other experts for guidance. These steps ensure a comprehensive approach to evaluating the reliability of a source.