Checklist methods are a common way to evaluate information. This method usually offers an acronym with a list of questions for evaluating information. The CRAAP Test is a popular checklist method commonly used to evaluate websites and online sources, but can be applied to all types of information. Be aware that sometimes unreliable information can pass the CRAAP test and they can be time consuming to use.
Doing the CRAAP test requires answering a series of questions; some you might ask and answer without much thought, others require more investigation.
Checklists methods can be helpful when evaluating information, but sometimes unreliable information can pass the test. Remember these tips when using a checklist to evaluating information.
Some, like digital literacy scholar Mike Caulfield, argue that the CRAAP test has proven to be less useful than we thought. Below is more information about how the CRAAP test was developed and why we might question its effectiveness.