The CRAAP Test is a checklist of sorts to assist researchers with evaluating websites; however, this checklist works for any source including journal articles and books. It is also vital to use to help stop the spread of misinformation in all of its various forms.
CRAAP stands for the five most important parts of source evaluation:
Many of these can blend together at times, such as when assessing the authority and purpose of a website, but they can also stand alone and offer their own insights into a source's usefulness.
It is also important to remember that not all of the five elements of the CRAAP Test are equal and that their importance can change depending on the field and type of research you are conducting. The most common trap for new and experienced researchers is using a website that looks modern over one that looks outdated which is referring to the Currency. Just because it looks good doesn't mean it is trustworthy.
The HJF Library recommends going through this guide and learning about all five elements of the CRAAP Test and then applying it not only to websites, but to any resource you plan on using in your research. The goal is to eliminate those less than trustworthy sources and replace them with better more appropriate sources that will give you a better research paper.
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