How do I find credible sources for my paper?
Answer
The CRAAP test is one reliable tool regarding the accuracy of sources. The CRAAP test is very helpful to use when evaluating citations, especially if you received a citation from an Artificial Intelligence tool.
- C stands for currency. When was the source created or published? Has the item been revised or updated? Additionally, check if the links are still working and if newer information is required.
- R stands for relevance. See if the information is relevant to the research question and information needs and if it is written at the level of the intended audience.
- A stands for authority. From here, look at the author's and publisher's credentials. Look for their contact information and look at the URL. For instance, .gov (government) and .edu (educational institutions) are often credible sources.
- A also stands for accuracy. Figure out where the information comes from and if it is verified by evidence. Make sure the information is presented in a factual, non-emotional manner. If the source contains spelling or grammar mistakes that is often an indication of an untrustworthy source.
- P stands for purpose. Confirm why the article was written - is it non-commercial? The author should be clear about the purpose of the article. All biases or conflicts of interest should be stated upfront, and the information should be presented in an objective manner.
Searching online for details about the publication (outside of the publication's website) is another way to verify for credibility. Citations from AI may link to the wrong publication or create citations that do not exist.
- Copying and pasting the citation into Google Scholar is often useful to confirm details about a source. For example, compare the publication details (title, author, journal, year) in Google Scholar.
- Fact-checking websites are also helpful tools. For example, Snopes is a popular fact checking site for urban legends and news; Factchequeado is a Spanish-language fact-checking site, often focused on political news.