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COM 103: Public Speaking & Presentations (Curry): Evaluating Sources

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The CRAAP Test

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The CRAAP test lists help you to evaluate the quality and appropriateness of the information sources you search and planning to use. 

Source: Butler University Library

The timeliness of the information.

  • 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?  
  • Are the links functional?
  • Has the information revised or reviewed?
  • Does material related to your topic?

Is this information important for your topic.  

  • 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? 

Who is the source of the information.

  • 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? examples: .com .edu .gov .org .net  

The reliability, truthfulness and correctness of the content. 

  • 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?

Think why was the information exists.

  • 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? 
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