Davidson - Research Paper - ENGL 1102 : Websites

Are My Sources CRAAP?

The CRAAP Test helps you evaluate the quality and relevance of any information you are considering for your research assignment. Keep this test in mind when considering the inclusion of any source - whether print, online or other media - in your assignment.

Currency

• The timeliness (publication date, revision history) of the information.

Relevance

• Does the information relate to your topic or answer your question?
• Who is the intended audience?
• Is the information at an appropriate level (i.e. not too elementary or advanced for your needs)?
• Have you looked at a variety of sources before determining this is one you will use?
• Would you be comfortable citing this source in your research paper?

Authority

• The source (author, publisher, sponsor) of the information.
• Check for contact information and the credentials of the author.

Accuracy

• The reliability (source, evidence, truthfulness) of the information.
• Think about the source and look for evidence of bias or error.

Purpose

• The reason (teach, sell, entertain) the information exists.
• Identify the type of information (fact or opinion) and the intent of the author.

Remember: All information sources are NOT created equal!!

   VS  

Your paper will only be as good as the sources you use to support your arguments!

Questions to ask yourself when evaluating websites:

Accuracy

1. Who wrote the page?

2. Can you contact the person? How?

3. What is the purpose of the web site?

4. How is the author qualified to write the document on this page? 

Authority

1. Who published the page?

2. What is the domain type of the web site?

Objectivity

1. What are the goals/objectives of the site?

2. How detailed is the information

3. What opinions are expressed by the author

Currency

1. When was the website first published?

2. When was it last updated?

3. Are the links (if any) up-to-date?

Content

1. If links are provided, do they relate to the content of the web site?

2. Is there a balance between text and images?

3. Are sources given for the information presented?

Overall Rating

1. How well does this web site meet your information needs?