We can't trust everything we find on the Internet. But how do we determine which sites have the authority to be trusted and useful? You'll have to put a site through the C.R.A.A.P. test to make that assessment.

C.R.A.A.P. Test For Evaluating Research Sources

Currency - Is the information recent enough for your topic?

• When was it posted?
• Is that recent enough? Do you need news or history?
• Is it updated regularly?
• Are the links functional?

Relevance - Does this information meet your research needs?

• Does the information relate to your topic, or assist you in arguing for or against a
• Have you looked at a variety of sources and determined this is the best match?
• Is it an appropriate level?
• Is it in-depth enough to cover your research needs, but not beyond your comprehension?
• Who is the intended audience?

Authority - Who wrote, published or endorsed the information and should we trust them?

• What credentials or expertise does the author/publisher/source/sponsor have?
• Is the author qualified to write or speak on this topic?
• Is contact information given?
• Does the url extension provide any insight (i.e. .com, .gov, .edu and .org)?

Accuracy - How reliable is the source’s content?

• Is it peer reviewed, refereed or critiqued?
• Is the information supported by evidence with sources cited?
• Can the information be verified on another reliable source?
• Does it appear reliable, free of typos, spelling or grammar errors?

Purpose - What is the author’s intent?

• Is the author trying to sell me a product or an idea?
• Is it possible that this was created to satirize or entertain?
• Does the information and tone appear impartial and objective, or are there political,ideological, cultural, religious, institutional or personal biases that are evident?
• Does the presence of advertising suggest bias?
• Do the authors or sponsors make their purpose clear?