CRAP Test English (A Student's Guide to Source Credibility)

Declan Gessel

Jun 21, 2024

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Are you tired of getting lost in the sea of information online, struggling to sift through what's reliable and what's not? Understanding the credibility of sources can be a challenge, especially when combining them through the greatness of the web.

That's where the CRAAP test comes in. This critical tool can guide you in evaluating the trustworthiness of your sources and help you zero in on reliable information.

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What is the CRAP Test?

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When conducting research, one critical aspect to consider is the currency of the source you are citing. A source's currency refers to the timeliness and relevance of the information it provides. Notably, staying current with reliable information in rapidly evolving fields is essential. This is particularly crucial in fields like science, technology, and medicine. When exploring information, look for recent publications or updates.

Check the publication date for printed materials, while online sources typically display the "last updated" date; if you're researching a time-sensitive topic like the latest developments in renewable energy, relying on a website from 1998 won't cut it. Instead, opt for a recent article published by a reputable scientific organization to ensure that you have the most current and relevant information at your disposal.

Time-sensitive topics may require information from the past, but for evolving fields like technology or current affairs, recent and up-to-date information should be prioritized. Remember, in today's fast-paced world, keeping abreast of the latest information could make or break the quality of your research.

How to Determine Source Relevance

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Not all information is created equal. Imagine finding a detailed article about the history of the bicycle while researching electric vehicle technology. While the bicycle article might be interesting, it wouldn't be directly relevant to your research topic.

Here's how to determine if a source is relevant:

Keywords

Identify the key terms and concepts related to your research topic.

Source Content

Analyze the source's content and see how closely it aligns with your keywords.

Focus and Scope

Does the source provide in-depth information specific to your topic, or is it a broad overview of a larger subject area? The more focused and relevant a source is to your research question, the more valuable it will be for your project.

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How to Assess a Website's Authority

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Let’s dive into assessing the authority of a source's creator for CRAAP Testing:

Author Information

When determining the reliability of a source, one must first dive into the background of the person who created it. Professional writer Steve DeAngelo's writing emphasizes the importance of seeking information about the author's credentials, expertise, and affiliations.

By doing so, readers can evaluate whether the author is a recognized or novice expert in their field. This step helps readers identify if a source comes from a credible author or someone whose information should be taken lightly.

Peer-Reviewed Journals

One of the most reliable sources of information is peer-reviewed journals. Steve DeAngelo's writing suggests that articles published in these journals go through a rigorous evaluation by other scholars in the field. This ensures that the information is accurate, backed by evidence, and holds high authority. So, if a source comes from a peer-reviewed journal, readers can trust the information it provides.

Professional Organizations

Lastly, another way to assess the authority of a source's creator is by looking at the organization behind the information. Steve DeAngelo emphasized that sources published by reputable scientific, governmental, or educational organizations carry more weight than personal blogs or websites with no clear authorial background.

These organizations have strict guidelines and requirements for their publications, ensuring high-quality information for readers.

Evaluating Accuracy

In research, accuracy is paramount. You wouldn't want to base your arguments on misleading or false information. Here's how to assess the accuracy of a source:

Citations and References

Look for a bibliography or list of references within the source. This indicates that the author consulted other credible sources to support their claims.

Cross-Referencing

Don't rely solely on one source. Try to find similar information from other credible sources to corroborate the information presented.

Internal Consistency

Does the information within the source seem logical and consistent? Are there any factual inconsistencies or contradictions?

Identify Source Point of View

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Source Purpose

Understanding a source's intended purpose is crucial when evaluating it for potential bias. Ask yourself, "Is the source designed to inform, persuade, sell a product, or entertain?" This question can help reveal the source's underlying motives and potential biases.

For instance, a source that aims to persuade may present information selectively to support a particular view. On the other hand, a source that seeks to inform will likely present facts in a more balanced manner.

Language and Tone

The language and tone used in a source can give insights into the potential bias. A source employing highly emotional or opinionated language might indicate bias. In contrast, a source that maintains a neutral and objective tone is more likely to present information without skewing it toward any particular viewpoint. By paying close attention to language and tone, you can better gauge the information's objectivity.

Evaluating Sources for Bias

Recognizing a source's point of view and potential bias is essential in information literacy. By considering the source's intended purpose, language and tone, and sponsored content, you can better assess the reliability and objectivity of the information presented. This skill is vital when conducting research, navigating the complexities of the media landscape, and making informed decisions based on the information available.

Applying the CRAP Test (Using the CRAP Test in Practice)

Identify the Source Type

Is it a website, a journal article, a book, or something else?

Apply the CRAP Criteria

For each source type, consider the following aspects:

Currency

When was the information published or last updated?

Relevance

How closely does the information align with your research topic?

Authority

Who is the author, and what are their credentials? For websites, consider the organization behind the website.

Accuracy

Are there citations or references? Does the information seem consistent and logical?

Point of View: What is the source's purpose? Is the information presented objectively, or is there a potential bias?

Make an Informed Decision

Based on your evaluation using the CRAP Test, determine whether the source is credible and trustworthy for your research project.

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Beyond the CRAP Test English

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Fact-Checking Websites

Fact-checking websites like Snopes and FactCheck.org can help you verify information you find online. With a plethora of information available on the internet, these sites can be invaluable resources to confirm the accuracy of claims and data. When applying the CRAP test, you can use these websites to verify further the validity of the information you encounter.

Library Resources

It's essential not to overlook the valuable resources available through your school or local library. Librarians are experts in helping students find credible sources for their research. They can help you navigate the library's databases, journals, and other materials to discover reputable research resources. Don't hesitate to ask for help when using your library's resources, as librarians can guide you to the most trustworthy and relevant sources.

Scholarly Databases

Academic databases are a goldmine of scholarly information that can enhance your research quality substantially. Many libraries provide free access to databases like JSTOR, ProQuest, and PubMed, where you can find peer-reviewed articles and other reliable academic sources.

These databases can aid you in finding scholarly peer-reviewed sources that align with the credibility criteria of the CRAP test. Remember to specify your search parameters when scouring these databases to retrieve the most relevant and recent information for your research projects.

By engaging with these academic databases, you can further bolster the credibility and reliability of the sources you use in your research.

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The CRAP test is a simple method for determining whether online resources are credible and useful for research. The acronym stands for Currency, Reliability, Authority, and Purpose/Point of View.

Currency

When assessing a source's currency, you want to ensure the information is recent enough for your purposes.

Reliability

The reliability of a source refers to its accuracy and trustworthiness.

Authority

This criterion involves evaluating the author or organization behind the website.

Purpose/Point of View

Understanding the purpose of the source and its point of view can help you assess its objectivity.

The Importance of Evaluating Sources

Evaluating and critiquing sources is an essential part of conducting research. It helps you avoid biased or incorrect information and ensures that you provide accurate, clear, and reliable information to your readers.

Using the CRAP Test in Your Writing

Incorporating the CRAP test into your writing process can help you develop strong arguments and present well-rounded perspectives. Critically analyzing sources can create a more compelling narrative that resonates with your audience.

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