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Biology 191

This guide will help you with the resources you need for Bio 191!

Introduction to Scientific Journal Articles

Short video from Dalhousie Libraries on 2 main types of scientific journal literature (primary research article and review article) and how they are organized.

Evaluating Sources

There are many ways to evaluate the sources of information you find, whether they are in print or digital format.

If you prefer a checklist method, check out the CRAAP Test detailed below.

Other methods, including "lateral reading" which is being taught in UF100/200 can be found here:

CRAAP Test

The CRAAP Criteria contains a list of questions to help you determine if the information you have is reliable.

Currency: The timeliness of the information.

When was the information published or posted?
Is the information current or out-of date for your topic?

Relevance:The importance of the information for your needs.
Does the information relate to your topic or answer your question?
Who is the intended audience?

Authority: The source of the information.
What are the author's credentials or organizational affiliations?
Does the URL reveal anything about the author or source?
examples: .com .edu .gov .org .net

Accuracy: The reliability and correctness of the informational content.
Where does the information come from?
Is the information supported by evidence?

Purpose: The reason the information exists.
What is the purpose of the information? to inform? to sell? to persuade?
Do the authors/sponsors make their intentions or purpose clear?
Does the language or tone seem biased? Is it free of emotion?

Based on Miriam Library Research Station - California State University Chico - http://www.csuchico.edu/lins/handouts/evalsites.html