The CRAAP Test Checklist
Use the following list to help you evaluate the quality and credibility of each of your sources. As you answer these questions, you will get a sense of the intent of the authors, the accuracy of the information provided, and the quality of the source overall. If by the end of this list, you are starting to doubt the credibility of your source, that means you probably shouldn’t use it!
Currency: The Timeliness of the Information
- When was the information published or posted?
- Has the information been revised or updated, if so, how recently?
- Is the information current or out-of-date for your topic?
- Are the links in this resource functional?
Relevance: The Importance of the Information for Your Needs
- Does the information relate to your topic or answer your question?
- Who is the intended audience, does it relate to your audience?
- Is the information at an appropriate level?
- Have you looked at a variety of sources before choosing this one?
- Would you be comfortable using this source for a research paper?
Authority: The Source of the Information
- Who is the author/publisher/source/sponsor?
- Would they have any ulterior motives for publishing this information?
- Are the author’s credentials or organizational affiliations given?
- What are the author’s credentials/organizational affiliations if given?
- What are the author’s qualifications to write on the topic?
- Is there contact information, such as a publisher or e-mail address?
- Does the URL reveal anything about the author or source?
Accuracy: The Reliability, Truthfulness, and Correctness of the Content
- Where does the source’s information come from?
- Is the information supported by evidence?
- Has the information been peer-reviewed or refereed?
- Can you verify any of the information in another source?
- Does the language or tone seem unbiased and free of emotion?
- Are there spelling, grammar, or other typographical errors?
Purpose: The Reason the Information Exists
- What is the purpose of the information?
- Do the authors/sponsors make their intentions or purpose clear?
- Is the information fact? opinion? propaganda?
- Does the point of view appear objective and impartial?
- Are there political, ideological, cultural, religious, institutional, or personal biases?
