LibGuides: How to critically evaluate sources: Home

Learning Intention: I can use the CRAAP test to evaluate sources.

I can find corroborating evidence for information

Be Skeptical

Approach every source with healthy skepticism. Use the CRAAP test to check a source's validity. For example that quote up there isn't Albert Einstein's. Einstein died in 1955, 35 years before the internet was born.

The CRAAP Test

C	Is the source CURRENT? Why? Sometimes new facts are uncovered Sometimes our understanding changes How? Check the date
R	Is the source RELEVANT? Why? If it's not about what you want, why are you using it? How? Check it has information you need or want
A	Who is the source's AUTHOR Why? Not all authors are equal E.g. Random person online vs. someone who studies the topic E.g. Someone who studies another topic vs. someone who studies the topic How? Can you find the author? Do they have credentials? Are the credentials in the field they are talking about? Do they work for someone who would benefit from their position? E.g. They are anti-climate change and also work for the oil industry.
A	Is the source ACCURATE? Why? Sometimes people lie on the internet. LE SHOCK!!! Sometimes information is out of date How? Check that another reputable source is saying the same information and is not getting it from the source you looked at originally. This is called corroboration
P	What is the source's PURPOSE? Why? People write for different reasons. These reasons are easy as P.I.E. to remember Persuade, Inform, Entertain (P.I.E.) A source could be more than one of these How? Is the source's message biased? Is the source's message trying to stir your emotions?