An essential part of using resources when writing an essay is to evaluate each source. You want to make sure you are using information that is from a credible source, is accurate and relevant to your topic. A useful tool for evaluating information is to apply the elements of the CRAAP test. You do not need to answer all of the questions but use the CRAAP test as a guide to help you look critically at your source.
Currency: The timeliness of the information
- When was the information published or posted?
- Has the information been revised or updated?
- Does your topic require current information or will older sources work as well?
Relevancy: The importance of the information for your needs
- Does the information relate to your topic or answer your question?
- Who is the intended audience?
- Is the information at an appropriate level (i.e. not too elementary or advanced for your needs)?
Authority: The source of the information.
- Who is the author/publisher/source/sponsor?
- What are the author's credentials or organizational affiliations?
- Is the author qualified to write on the topic?
- Does the URL reveal anything about the author or source? examples: .com .edu .gov .org .net
Accuracy: The reliability, truthfulness and correctness of the content.
- Where does the information come from?
- Is the information supported by evidence?
- Has the information been reviewed or refereed?
- Can you verify any of the information in another source or from personal knowledge?
- Are there spelling, grammar or typographical errors?
Purpose: The reason the information exists
- What is the purpose of the information? Is it to inform, teach, sell, entertain or persuade?
- Do the authors/sponsors make their intentions or purpose clear?
- Is the information fact, opinion or propaganda?
- Does the point of view appear objective and impartial?
- Are there political, ideological, cultural, religious, institutional or personal biases?
