Skip to Main Content

CRAAP Test -- Website Evaluation : P is for Purpose

Guide created by Adam Fullerton at the Hickman-Johnson-Furrow Learning Center.

Purpose

The purpose of the site is the ultimate goal of the author. Is it to inform, promote, or enlighten?

Some Questions to Ask

  • Does the author seem bias?
    • This is not necessarily bad if it is an opinion. How do you intend to use the source?
  • Is the purpose of the article stated?
    • Is there a thesis statement?
  • Are editorials clearly identified?
  • Is the tone of the writing appropriate for the audience?
  • What's the purpose of the overall site?
    • This goes back to the Mission Statement
  • Is the site for profit?
    • Is the site trying to sell something?
    • Do they provide credible evidence for their claims?

Ultimately the big question you need to ask is:

WHY WAS THE SITE CREATED?