Cleveland State CC Library
Evaluating Your Sources
Now that you have found some sources on your topic, it is time to make sure they are the right ones for your paper. In this section, we will explore ways to look at your sources with a critical eye.
While it is tempting to simply use the first three or four books and articles that come up when you conduct a search, it is important to make sure that the sources you use address the research question you have formed. You must also be careful to follow your instructor's directions regarding the type (peer-reviewed, print book, primary) and number of sources required.
Regardless of the type of source you are using, you should ask yourself the following question: Does it pass the C.R.A.A.P test?
Watch the video below for more information about how to use the CRAAP test to evaluate your sources.
Websites pose unique challenges for students trying to assess a source's Currency, Relevancy, Authority, Accuracy, and Purpose. The video below provides some helpful tips for determining if a website is credible or not.
Keep in mind that while the Internet is great research tool for certain types of information, your Library's databases are often a better bet when looking for credible sources.
Use websites to
• obtain information on colleges, museums, non-profit organizations, or companies
• access up-to-the-minute information such as news, sports scores, weather, stock quotes
• research a well-known event or individual
• explore opinions on a topic
Use the Library's catalog and databases to
• find articles in scholarly journals, magazines, and newspapers
• search databases that index articles in many academic disciplines
• find print and eBooks on your topic
• locate the full text of articles or books that are copyrighted