What Is the CRAP Test & How to Evaluate Sources for Credibility?

Declan Gessel

Jun 18, 2024

woman trying to learn What is the CRAP Test?

Introducing the CRAAP test, it's not about sorting through a pile of junk. It's about helping you tell facts from fiction when gathering facts. If you've ever felt online research is like internet dating, filled with smooth talkers and deceivers, this guide is your need. The CRAP test is for you. It also helps you figure out what's legit and what's not.

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Why Evaluate Sources?

teaching a person What is the CRAP Test?

When you're trying to figure out whether an article or video is reliable, remember to put it to the CRAP test.

Credibility

If you're uncertain of an article's origin, check whether the writer is listed and whether they're experts in the field. Even if the writer isn't a professional, you'll want to see whether they got their information from experts in the area.

Reliability

The more a writer relies on the work of others, the more trustworthy their article is likely to be. Look to see whether the writer reviews and cites other sources. This doesn't guarantee accurate information, but it's a good sign.

Authority

Don't assume that a website is credible based on its appearance. Examine the author and their credentials.

Point of View

Websites, like newspapers, present information from a particular point of view. Be cautious of websites that state ideologies, political leanings, or financial motives.

When you're trying to figure out whether an article or video is reliable, remember to put it to the CRAP test.

What is the CRAP Test?

Currency

The Currency aspect of the CRAP Test helps you figure out how fresh your sources are. Ensure the info wasn't from when we thought Y2K would end the world.

Relevance

Finding relevant info shouldn't be like a blind date where you don't know if the person is your type. Relevance is key in the CRAP Test, making sure your sources are hitting the bullseye.

Authority

Think of Authority as the doorman at an exclusive club. You wouldn't trust just anyone to show you a good time. The Authority aspect of the CRAP Test checks if your source is reputable. A credible author will guide you better than a fake ID gets you into a bar.

Accuracy

Consider those “I saw a unicorn” stories that make the rounds. Accuracy ensures your info isn’t as mythical as these tales. Accurate info is like finding out your favorite show got renewed for another season – a sigh of relief when you know it's correct, supported by clear evidence.

Purpose

You know how some people wear their hearts on their sleeves? That's the Purpose aspect of the CRAP Test for information. Letting you know why the source exists gives you insight into the author's intentions. Are they trying to educate, persuade, sell, or just make you chuckle?

Tips for Applying the CRAP Test

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Evaluating Currency

When evaluating a source, look for publication dates, last updated dates, or copyright information. Consider whether the information remains current to your research question or topic. Recent sources are crucial for rapidly evolving topics.

There is a reason why that old sweatshirt of yours from high school needs an update, or else people will know you've been living under a rock. Knowing what’s going on in your field is just as important as knowing what’s in your closet. For instance, a news article from last week may be more valuable when researching current events than a book published a year ago.

Evaluating Relevance

To determine a source's relevance, read the title, abstract, or introduction to grasp the source's focus. Does the content directly address your research question or topic?

Think of it like adding the right spice to your favorite gumbo recipe—skip the mint in a seafood stew. Consider if the source provides the level of detail you need. Remember, you can't skimp on the ingredients when cooking a good paper.

Evaluating Authority

Evaluating authority is crucial. Identify the author and their credentials. Are they experts in the field? Does their experience match the content? Is the source published by a reputable organization known for fact-checking and editorial oversight? Peer-reviewed journals often go through a rigorous process of checking the quality of the research presented. In the same way, you wouldn't want to learn how to bake a cake from someone who can't tell the difference between an oven and a microwave.

Evaluating Accuracy

Accuracy matters! Does the author cite their sources? Are the citations credible and verifiable? Does the information flow logically and well-structured? Do you sense any factual errors or inconsistencies? Be looking for sources with excessive emotional language or claims that seem too good to be true. Just as we don’t want a floating tire in our soup, you don’t want erroneous information in your paper.

Evaluating Purpose

The purpose of a source is crucial! What is the author's intent in creating this source? Are they aiming to inform, persuade, sell something, or entertain? Understanding the purpose helps you identify potential bias.

For example, a blog post promoting a particular product might be less objective than a scholarly article on the same topic. Picture it like this: you wouldn’t trust a diamond salesperson to give you an unbiased review of diamond quality. They might have a few "alternative facts" up their sleeve or in their ring display case.

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Additional Tips for Evaluating Sources

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When evaluating sources, it's essential to consider the credibility and accuracy of the information presented. Here are some additional tips to help you distinguish reliable sources from those known to spread misinformation.

Beware of Sensationalism and Outlandish Claims

Websites with sensational headlines or claims that seem too good to be true are often red flags. Be wary of sources that use exaggerated language or make extraordinary promises. If the information seems too incredible to be true, it might be best to dig deeper and fact-check the claims.

Look for Factual Errors and Inconsistencies

One way to evaluate the reliability of a source is to look for factual errors or inconsistencies in the information presented. Misinformation often contains inaccuracies or contradictions that can be identified through careful scrutiny. If you notice discrepancies or errors in the content, it's a sign that the source may not be trustworthy.

Consider the Source's URL

When evaluating a source, consider the website's domain extension. Websites with extensions like ".edu" (educational institutions) or ".gov" (government websites) are often more reliable than those with ".com" or ".net" extensions.

However, it's important to note that this is not a foolproof method. Some government websites may contain biased information, and certain educational institutions allow anyone to publish on their website. While the domain extension can provide a clue about the source's credibility, it should not be the sole factor in your evaluation.

Fact-Check the Information

Don't hesitate to verify the information from other credible sources. Use established fact-checking websites to see if there are any known issues with the source or the information it presents. Fact-checking can help you confirm the accuracy of the information and identify any potential biases or inaccuracies.

By incorporating these additional tips into your source evaluation process, you can enhance your ability to separate reliable sources from those that spread misinformation. Remember, critical thinking and skepticism are essential skills when navigating the complexities of the information landscape.

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