Source Validation Lab

A cited answer is only as trustworthy as the sources behind it. In this lab you'll run a real Pro Search query in Perplexity, then click through and score every citation against a four-part credibility rubric — and decide whether the answer is something you'd be willing to stand behind in front of colleagues or students.

Step-by-step

Work through these in Perplexity (free tier includes a few Pro Searches per day). Check each box as you go — your progress is saved on this device.

• Open Perplexity and switch the search mode to Pro Search.
• Run a factual query in your field that has a verifiable answer (use a template below, or your own).
• Read the answer and note every claim that carries a numbered citation.
• Click each citation. Confirm the linked page actually supports the exact sentence it's attached to.
• Score each source below using the credibility rubric.
• Write your verdict: would you cite this answer as-is, revise it, or reject it?

Starter queries

Pick one and adapt it to your discipline. The point is a question with a checkable answer — not an opinion.

What is the current credit-hour definition used by my regional accreditor, and when was it last revised? Cite the primary source for each claim and note the publication date.

Summarize the current research consensus on [a debated topic in my field]. For each point, cite at least two independent sources and flag where the sources disagree.

Credibility scorer

For each source the answer cites, rate the four factors, then add it to your list. Scores are saved on this device until you reset.

Your verdict