CRAAP Test: How To Check Source of Information Is Reliable Or Not

One of the most useful media literacy tools to understand today is the CRAAP Test. It was first developed by California State University to help students judge whether a source of information is reliable. 

Each letter in CRAAP stands for a question you should ask whenever you come across a piece of news, a social media post, or any online information. It helps you think carefully before trusting or forwarding anything.

C for Currency

This means you should check how recent the information is. Many times, old articles or videos resurface and start spreading again as if they are new. 

For example, an old video of a protest from 2023 may suddenly go viral during a new election, leading people to believe it just happened. Always look for the date when the post was first made or when the article was published.

R for Relevance

Ask yourself if the information actually relates to the topic being discussed. Sometimes, unrelated photos or facts are shared to confuse or mislead people. 

For instance, if a post about rising fuel prices shows a random image of a crowded petrol pump, it might just be used to stir anger, not to inform.

A for Authority

This is about who is behind the information. Is it a well-known expert, a journalist, or just a random social media account? 

For example, if you are reading a claim about a new medicine, it should ideally come from a doctor, a health organisation, or a science journal. If it comes from an unknown influencer or a forwarded message, be careful.

(Image Credit – UW-Stout University Library)

A for Accuracy

Check if the information is supported by facts and evidence. Are there links to trustworthy sources? Are multiple credible outlets reporting the same thing? 

Fake news often sounds confident but gives no proof. Small details like spelling mistakes or missing references can also signal that it’s not reliable.

P for Purpose

Ask why this content was created. Some people post to inform, but others do it to earn money, promote a product, or spread a belief. 

For example, a post claiming a certain herbal drink cures all diseases may actually be trying to sell that drink.

The CRAAP Test may seem simple, but it trains your mind to slow down and question what you see online. 

Before you share any news or forward a message, take a minute to test it for Currency, Relevance, Authority, Accuracy, and Purpose. It’s a small habit that can protect you and others from misinformation.