Another characteristic of information to consider pertains to its currency. Depending on your topic or information need, the date can be very important. If you are reviewing the latest cancer treatments, current information will be most relevant. If you are reviewing attitudes toward cancer in the 1960s, you will probably need to review historical information.

In many cases current and historical sources will be required for a thorough study of a topic. Always look at the publication date and think critically about whether you need the most current information, historical information, or both.

Consider different disciplines:

• In the sciences, the most up-to-date information is often needed.
• In the humanities, historical information may be most important.
• In the social sciences, historical and current information are often consulted.