APA: CRAAP Test

Use the CRAAP Test to evaluate your sources!

This guide is helpful when evaluating any type of source, whether it's a website, an article from a library database, a video, or a book.

Currency: The timeliness of the information.

•     When was the information published, posted, revised or updated?
•     Does your topic require current information, or will older sources work as well?
•     Are the links on a website functional and current?

Relevance: The importance of the information for your needs.

•     Does the information relate to your topic or answer your question?
•     Who is the intended audience?
•     Is the information at an appropriate level (not too simple or advanced?)
•     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 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?

Accuracy: The reliability, truthfulness and correctness of the content.

•     Where does the information come from? Are references and citations provided?
•     Is the information supported by evidence?
•     Has the information been reviewed?
•     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?

Purpose: The reason 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?

Contact the Library

 Phone: 712-325-3478

 Email: cyberlibrary@iwcc.edu

 Ask a Librarian

Questions about formatting, citations, or finding sources? 

Schedule an appointment with library staff by clicking the Schedule Appointment button.

When is the library open? Find our hours here.