This document discusses how to evaluate the quality of information sources. It notes that library sources are more restricted in publication, fact-checked, edited, revised, and peer reviewed compared to most web sources. It then presents the CRAAP test for evaluating information, which consists of checking that information is Current, Relevant, has Authority behind it, is Accurate, and has a clear Purpose without bias. Following these criteria helps ensure high-quality information is being used.

1. EVALUATING SOURCES
How to Recognize Quality Information

2. Library Sources vs. Web Sources
Restricted
Publication
Fact Checked
Edited
Revised
Peer Review
Frequent
Author and/or
Publisher Known
Open Publication
Fact Checked ?
Edited ?
Revised ?
Peer Review Rare
Author and/or
Publisher Known ?

3. Five Criteria to Consider: CRAAP
1. Currency
Is the information
up-to-date enough
for my topic ?
Rapid advancements
in science necessitate
looking for very
current information
2. Relevance
Is the information
relevant and in
enough depth to
meet my needs ?

4. Five Criteria to Consider (cont.)
3. Authority
Who is
responsible for
the content and
what are their
qualifications ?
4. Accuracy
Is the information
reliable and free
from error ?
Is the site free from
spelling and
grammatical errors ?
Are sources cited ?

5. Five Criteria to Consider (cont.)
5. Purpose
Is the information
presented without
bias or is the bias
acceptable for my
purpose ?
Beware of sources
with hidden
agendas
For More Information:
Information Evaluation Guide
http://libguides.sdstate.edu/information_evalua
tion