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This method is an excellent test to run on any source. Answer the questions in the infographic to the left to see if your source passes the test. If your source can pass each letter, then it is probably a good choice for your research!
Currency
Consider when the source was published. Especially in the sciences, where new information comes out every day, you want to be sure you have the latest and greatest information.
Relevance
Make sure your source is appropriate for your knowledge level and addresses what you are researching. A source with only one sentence that applies to your topic is not the best choice.
Authority
Check that the author has ground to stand on--this means an educational background or in-field experience. For example, a chef might not have a college degree, but would be a reliable source for cooking information.
Accuracy
Ensure that the author cites where his or her information is from. Anyone can publish anything online--so make sure that there is evidence to back up the author's claims.
Purpose
Think about why your source was published. Was it to educate or to increase web traffic? Consider if there might be any bias present.
Try it Out
Try it Out
Take this quiz and test your CRAAP skills!
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