Question

an important component of conducting research on the cost of a college education is

identifying a problem.

writing an opening statement.

evaluating sources.

creating an outline.

Explanation:

When conducting research (here on college education cost), a key step is evaluating sources to ensure their credibility, relevance, and accuracy for the research. Identifying a problem is the initial step before research. Writing an opening statement and creating an outline are part of the writing/drafting phase, not the research component itself. So evaluating sources is the correct choice.

Answer:

C. evaluating sources