Resource Guides: Massage Therapy: Evaluating Information

Evaluating Information (CRAAP)

Use the CRAAP Test method to determine if a web resource is right for you. Evaluate sources based on the following points:

Currency: When was the information published? Is it up to date?
Relevance: Is the information what you're really looking for? Who is the material written for: academics, professionals, students, or the general public?
Authority: Who published, wrote, or edited the information? Is the author an expert on the topic?
Accuracy: Is the information reliable and accurate? Do other sources verify this information?
Purpose: What is the purpose of the information? Is it biased to one point of view?

Evaluating Information - Applying the CRAAP Test
The CRAAP Test was developed by the Meriam Library at California State University, Chico.
CRAAP test rubric
Provided by Ron E Lewis Library

Differences Between Magazine and Journal Articles

Magazine and Journal Articles are often confused. When your instructor asks you to locate a journal article, do you know what you're looking for? The table below outlines some key differences between both sources of information.

	Magazine Article	Journal Article
Topic	General or current interest	Detailed examination of professional interest
Author	Non-professional journalist or freelance writer	Professional, topical expert (qualifications required)
Purpose	To inform or entertain	To keep scholars current with new research
Audience	General public	Professional or special interest groups
Example	Maclean's	International Journal of Child Health and Human Development