Resources

Critical Thinking Strategies

How to Evaluate Sources

The CRAP Test* provides valid criteria and a memorable mnemonic. Think about these criteria when evaluating claims.

Currency - timeliness

• When was the information published or last updated?
• Have newer articles been published?
• Is the topic in an area that changes rapidly, like technology, health, or science?

Reliability - accuracy

• Are there statements you know to be false?
• Was the information reviewed by subject experts?
• What references support the author’s claims?

 Authority - the source

• Who is the author/publisher/source/sponsor of the source?
• What are the author’s credentials or organizational affiliations
• Is the author qualified to write on the topic?

Purpose - the reason

• Is the purpose of the source to sell, persuade, or inform?
• Are there political, ideological, cultural, religious, institutional or personal biases?
• Are alternative points of view presented?
• Does the author use strong or emotional language?

* The CRAP Test was developed by librarian Molly Beestrum, Dominican University. Another version of the CRAP Test, the CRAAP Test, can be found on the Duquesne University Library website.

Resources & Models for Practice