The CRAAP Test

The CRAAP Test Currency Authority Accuracy Purpose Relevance The crap test has been developed by Meriam Library as a guide for evaluating information 1. When was the information created? 2. When was it posted? 3. When was it last revised 4. Are the links active? (WEB) How important currency is for your topic? Are you working on a history or literature topic? (Primary (not current) sources might be more valuable than new ones) Are you a scientist, journalist, doctor, computer specialist? You probably are interested in the newest information in your field How important is this information for your purpose? Does it relate to your topic? Is the information presented in the appropriate level (not too simple and not too complicated? How comfortable are you in using this information for your research? Who or what is the source of the information 1. Who is/are the author/publisher sponsor/source ofthe information? 2. Are they qualified enough to provide this information? 3. Are their credentials clearly stated? 4. Is there contact information available? In case of evaluating sources from the web, does the URL indicate who is the author or the source? .com; .edu; .gov; .org; .net How reliable is the information? 1. Where does it come from? 2. Can it be verified? 3. Has it been revied or refereed? 5. Is there a bibliography of works cited lists? 6. Is it free from bias? 7. Are there any typographical errors? Why the information was created? What is the function of the information: to inform? teach? sell? entertain? persuade? Are there any political, ideological, religious, or personal biases? Is the information objective or subjective? Use this test for evaluation of all kinds of information. GOOD LUCK! C - Currency R - Relevance A - Authority A - Accuracy P - Purpose