There is lots of information out there nowadays, but how do we know what is good information versus bad? Let's make sure that those sources you use for your assignments are reliable and credible. There are many sources out there claiming to the real information when, really, they aren't. To make sure they are not "crappy," let's apply the CRAAPO test!
Need help remembering what to look for? Think CRAAPO! CRAAPO is an acronym and by breaking it down, you'll see how you can find relevant resources for your needs every time.
| C | Currency | How recent was the information published? Has it been updated or revised recently? Are the links functional? |
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| R | Relevancy | Is the content related to your topic? Is it at an appropriate reading level? Who is the audience? Would you be comfortable using this source? |
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| A | Authority | Who is the author, publisher, source, and/or sponsor? What are author's credentials? Can you contact someone about the source? What does the URL reveal (.org, .gov, .edu, .com, .net, etc.)? |
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| A | Accuracy |
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| P | Purpose | What is the purpose of the source (teach, inform, entertain, persuade, etc.)? Are the source's intentions clear? Can you tell if the source is a fact, an opinion, or propaganda? Are there any ideological, cultural, political, institutional, religious, or personal biases? Is the point of view objective and impartial? |
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| O | Objectivity |
Is your source factual? Is it from a reputable source? Does it have supportive resources (links, bibliographies, etc.) that help support what is being presented? |
Citation: Blakeslee, Sarah (2004) "The CRAAP Test," LOEX Quarterly: Vol. 31 : No. 3 , Article 4. Available at: https://commons.emich.edu/loexquarterly/vol31/iss3/4.
Evaluate these websites with your newfound knowledge!