Evaluating Information Sources with the CRAAP Test

Currency: The Timeliness of the Information

• When was the information published or posted? (Identify the year of publication)
• Has the information been revised or updated? (Check if it has been revised or updated)
• Is the information current or out-of-date for your topic? (Note: Older information may be outdated; however, consider the context)
• Are the links functional? (Check the use of data and resources; normally present in both texts)

Relevance: The Importance of the Information for Your Needs

• Does the information relate to your topic or answer your question? (Determine which topic is most relevant and which text explains it most clearly)
• Who is the intended audience? (Identify if it is aimed at professionals in the field or those with no prior knowledge; check if it is suitable)
• Is the information at an appropriate level? (State whether it is appropriate and discuss if the language is technical or neutral for that audience)
• Would you be comfortable using this source for a research paper? (Consider if it provides relevant information or if the author lacks experience)

Authority: The Source of the Information

• Who is the author, publisher, source, or sponsor? (Identify the author or the publishing entity)
• Are the author's credentials or organizational affiliations given? (State if the text mentions the author's titles or experience)
• What are the author's credentials or organizational affiliations if given? (Detail the titles or experiences provided in the text)
• What are the author's qualifications to write on the topic? (Check if they have clear qualifications through studies or experience; provide detailed information about the author's background)
• Is there contact information, such as a publisher or e-mail address?
• Does the URL reveal anything about the author or source? (State yes or no and explain)

Accuracy: The Reliability, Truthfulness, and Correctness

• Where does the information come from? (Identify if it is from a journal, website, or other source)
• Is the information supported by evidence? (State if evidence is provided or if the source lacks it)
• Has the information been reviewed or refereed? (This makes it more credible, precise, and trustworthy through peer review by other experts in the field)
• Can you verify any of the information in another source? (State yes or no)
• Does the language or tone seem biased and free of emotion? (Look for neutral or technical language; reliable information uses neutral tones)
• Are there spelling, grammar, or other typographical errors? (Check if both texts are free of errors)

Purpose: The Reason the Information Exists

• What is the purpose of the information? (Identify the main theme of the text)
• Do the authors or sponsors make their intentions or purpose clear? (Ensure it fulfills the final purpose)
• Is the information fact, opinion, or propaganda? (Determine if it is an opinion piece, data-driven, or trying to sell something; purposes include to inform, educate, sell, influence, teach, entertain, or persuade)
• Does the point of view appear objective and impartial? (Determine if the viewpoint is objective or subjective)
• Are there political, ideological, cultural, religious, institutional, or personal biases? (Identify if any such biases are present)