How Do I Evaluate Sources?

Not all information is good or acceptable for your research.

The T.R.A.A.P. Test* provides criteria to evaluate your sources of information. Even if you use "scholarly" articles, you still need to question their value to you and your work. ALWAYS EVALUATE ANY SOURCE.

*(Adapted from various versions in the LibGuides Community, infoLab, and California State University, Chico)

The T.R.A.A.P. Test

Evaluate Sources Based on the Following Criteria:

Timeliness, Relevance, Authority, Accuracy, and Purpose/Point of View

• Timeliness
  • When was the information published or posted?
  • Has the information been revised or updated? When? Recently?
  • Is it current enough for your topic?
• Relevance
  • Does the information relate to your topic?
  • Does the information meet the stated requirements of the assignment?
  • Is the information at an appropriate level (i.e. not too elementary or advanced for your needs)?
  • Who is the intended audience?
  • What kind of information is included in the resource?
  • Is better information available elsewhere?

  Accuracy

  • Is the information accurate?
  • Are there spelling, grammar or other typographical errors?
  • Where does the information come from?
  • Does the creator provide references or sources for data or quotations?
• Authority
  • Who is the creator or author?
  • What are the credentials or qualifications to write on the topic?
  • Who is the publisher or sponsor? Are they reputable?
  • Is there contact information, such as publisher or email address?
  • Does the URL reveal anything about the author or source? (examples: .com, .edu, .org, .net, .gov)
• Purpose/Point of View
• • What is the purpose of the information? To inform? Teach? Sell? Entertain? Persuade?
  • Is the information fact? Opinion? Propaganda?
  • Does the point of view appear objective and impartial?
  • Are there political, ideological, cultural, religious, institutional or personal biases?

(Adapted from various versions in the LibGuides Community, infoLab, and California State University, Chico)