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Inquiry (INQR) 1000: Evaluating Sources for Credibility

Credibility Clue: Internet Extensions

The domain is an extension of a website indicates the type of body who created it; an indicator of credibility. In advanced web search forms, like Google Advanced Search, you can restrict your search to a particular domain. Note that you can only restrict your search to one domain at a time. Here are common domains:

.com - commercial

  • Commercial websites - websites that are running for a profit
  • Apply caution. Commercial sites are often trying to sell you an idea or a product.

.org - organization

  • Tends to refer to non-profit organizations
  • Tend to be less biased than commercial sites, however, still apply some caution. Some non-profit organizations provide misinformation. 

.net - network

.edu - education

  • Refers to websites from educational institutions, from pre-school to higher education.
  • Tends to be less biased, but again, apply some caution. Different education institutions have different philosophies and are promoting theirs, for example, a Montessori school's website. 

.gov - government (US)

  • Refers to websites by the US government. 

.mil - military (US)

.int - intergovernmental

Different countries have different extensions.

Evaluate sources with the CRAAP Test

Picture via ThePinsta.com
The CRAAP Test

Librarians in the US and from around the world recommend the CRAAP Test as it's applicable to all source types, and it's easy to remember!

Zoom into the "Take the CRAAP Test" infographic on the right and save a copy for yourself.

Alternatively, download a PDF at the end of this box.

C stands for
Currency

The timeliness of the information

  • When was the information published or posted?
  • Has the information been revised or updated?
  • Does your topic require current information, or will older sources work as well? Are the links functional?
R stands for

 
Relevance

The importance of the information for your needs

  • Does the information relate to your topic or answer your question?
  • Who is the intended audience?
  • Is the information at an appropriate level (i.e. not too elementary or advanced for your needs)?
  • Have you looked at a variety of sources before determining this is one you will use?
  • Would you be comfortable citing this source in your research paper?
A stands for

 
Authority

The source of the information

  • Who is the author/publisher/source/sponsor?
  • What are the author's credentials or organizational affiliations?
  • Is the author qualified to write on the topic?
  • Is there contact information, such as a publisher or email address?
  • Does the URL reveal anything about the author or source? examples: .com .edu .gov .org .net
A stands for
Accuracy

The reliability, truthfulness, and correctness of the content

  • Where does the information come from?
  • Is the information supported by evidence?
  • Has the information been reviewed or refereed?
  • Can you verify any of the information in another source or from personal knowledge?
  • Does the language or tone seem unbiased and free of emotion?
  • Are there spelling, grammar or typographical errors?
P stands for
Purpose

The reason the information exists

  • What is the purpose of the information? Is it to inform, teach, sell, entertain or persuade?
  • Is the information fact, opinion, or propaganda?
  • Does the point of view appear objective and impartial?
  • Are there political, ideological, cultural, religious, institutional or personal biases?

"CRAAP Test" infographic and wording reproduced from UC San Diego Library, who adapted it from CSU Chicco

Unsure if Source is Credible? Check with a Librarian