Final answer:
Only peer-reviewed articles are authoritative in academic research due to their rigorous evaluation process, while credible blogs can provide useful insights but are not deemed authoritative. Therefore, statements b and d are true, while statements a and c are false.
Step-by-step explanation:
When evaluating sources for academic purposes, discerning the types of sources and their appropriateness for the research is crucial. Here's an analysis of the statements provided:
- Statement a: Blogs should never be used for academic purposes. This is false. While blogs are not peer-reviewed and, therefore, are not at the same level of authority as scholarly articles, credible blogs written by experts can provide relevant insights, especially for current events or topics not yet covered in academic circles.
- Statement b: Only the article is authoritative because it's peer-reviewed. This is true in the context that a peer-reviewed article has gone through a rigorous evaluation process, reinforcing its reliability and credibility.
- Statement c: Both the article and the blog are authoritative. This is false because authority in academic research is primarily determined by the peer-review process which the blog lacks.
- Statement d: If you need peer-reviewed material, only the article should be used. This is true. When your research necessitates peer-reviewed sources, the blog would not be an appropriate source as it has not undergone the stringent peer-review process.
Remember, the peer-review process is essential for ensuring the accuracy and reliability of academic research. While blogs may provide supplemental information, they do not replace the need for peer-reviewed material when such is required.