CORNERSTONE (Pfrommer and Ortega)

When you do any kind of research, you will find there is a LOT of information out there. But, is the information accurate and reliable?

You will have to determine this for yourself, and the CRAAP Test can help.

The CRAAP Test is a list of questions you can ask yourself to determine if information is reliable.

urrency	When was the information published or posted? Has the information been revised or updated? Does your topic require current information, or will older sources work as well? If it is a website, are the links functional?
elevance	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?
uthority	Who is the author/publisher/source/sponsor? What are the author's credentials or organizational affiliations? Is the author qualified to write on the topic? Is there contact information, such as a publisher or email address? Does the URL reveal anything about the author or source? (for example, .edu, .org, .net, .gov)
ccuracy	Where does the information come from? Is the information supported by evidence? Has the information been reviewed or refereed? Can you verify any of the information in another source or from personal knowledge? Does the language or tone seem unbiased and free of emotion? Are there spelling, grammar or typographical errors?
urpose	What is the purpose of the information? Is it to inform, teach, sell, entertain or persuade? Do the authors/sponsors make their intentions or purpose clear? Is the information fact, opinion or propaganda? Does the point of view appear objective and impartial? Are there political, ideological, cultural, religious, institutional or personal biases?

Questions courtesy of the Meriam Library @ California State University, Chico