The CRAAP Test
A Simple Framework for Evaluating Online Sources
What is the CRAAP Test?
The CRAAP Test is a simple and effective method for evaluating the credibility of information sources, especially online content. In a world overflowing with information, it helps you quickly determine whether a source is trustworthy and suitable for your research or learning needs.
CRAAP is an acronym that stands for:
Who Created the CRAAP Test?
The CRAAP Test was developed in 2004 by Sarah Blakeslee, a librarian at California State University, Chico (CSU Chico), along with her team of librarians.
Sarah created the test while developing a workshop for first-year instructors who needed a practical tool to help students evaluate online sources. Since then, it has become one of the most widely used methods for teaching source evaluation in universities and libraries across the world.
Why Use the CRAAP Test?
Easy to Remember
This acronym makes it simple to recall all five evaluation criteria
Quick Assessment
Rapidly evaluate sources without getting overwhelmed
Protects from Misinformation
Helps you identify unreliable, biased, or false information
Improves Research
Ensures your work is built on credible, quality sources
Universal Application
Works for websites, articles, videos, and all types of content
Develops Critical Thinking
Builds lifelong skills for evaluating information
The Five CRAAP Criteria
Click on each criterion to learn more about what questions to ask:
Currency
The Timeliness of Information
Relevance
The Importance for Your Needs
Authority
The Source of Information
Accuracy
The Reliability of Content
Purpose
The Reason It Exists
How to Use the CRAAP Test
Find a Source
Locate a webpage, article, or resource you want to evaluate
Ask CRAAP Questions
Go through each of the five criteria and ask the relevant questions
Score Each Category
Rate each criterion from 1-10 (1 = poor, 10 = excellent)
Make a Decision
If the source scores well across all criteria, it's likely reliable
Pro Tips for Using the CRAAP Test
No source is perfect. Even respected sources can have limitations or biases.
Cross-reference. Don't rely on a single source—verify information across multiple credible sources.
Context matters. An older source might be valuable for historical topics but outdated for current events.
Consider the domain. .edu, .gov, and .org sites are often (but not always) more reliable than .com sites.
The Bottom Line
The CRAAP Test is a powerful tool for navigating today's information-rich world. Whether you're writing a research paper, fact-checking news, or just browsing online, these five criteria can help you become a smarter, more critical consumer of information.
Remember: Not all information is created equal. Take the time to evaluate your sources—your research (and your grades!) will thank you. 🎓