Skip to Main Content

English Composition (ENG 1100, 1101, 1103, and 2105)

Evaluating Sources using SIFT and CRAPP

There are so many sources you can find online or in the library - but how do you know if that source should be used. Try using the SIFT method and the CRAPP test. 
The SIFT method stands for S(top) I(nvestigate the Source) F(ind better coverage) and T(race the claims). It's recommended to use this method when evaluating: 
- News articles
- Social media posts
- Unknown websites
Check out this video from Wayne State University Libraries for more information. 
The CRAAP test stands for C(urrency) R(elevance) A(uthority) A(ccuracy) and P(urpose). It's recommended to use this method when attempting to evaluate:
- academic journal articles
- news articles from larger organizations (New York Times, Wall Street Journal, etc)
- books 
Check out this video from Curtin University for more information.