Read laterally

What is lateral reading? The below video has a great description. Essentially, lateral reading involves looking at many different sources side-by-side in order to evaluate whether any one particular source is worthwhile. It is a process used by professional fact-checkers, but something that you are probably already familiar with from your personal internet use. It's a valuable addition to your research skills. 

Use the CRAAP test

These criteria will help you evaluate any source, regardless of type. 

• Currency
  • Is the information current? When was it published?
  • Is the information timely enough for your topic?
• Relevance
  • Does the information relate to your topic or answer your question?
  • Who is the intended audience?
  • Is the information at an appropriate level (i.e. not too simple or advanced for your needs)?
• Authority
  • Who is the author/publisher/source/sponsor?
  • What are the author's qualifications to write on the topic?
• Accuracy
  • Where does the information come from? Is it supported by evidence?
  • Has the information been reviewed or refereed?
• Purpose
  • What is the purpose of the information? to inform? teach? sell? entertain? persuade?
  • Do the authors make their intentions clear?
  • Is the information fact? opinion? propaganda? Can you detect bias?

Other tools mentioned elsewhere in this guide

Fake News, Propaganda, and Disinformation: Learning to Critically Evaluate Media Sources - Cornell University Library

Crash Course: Navigating Digital Information (tips on fact-checking, reading laterally, and more) on YouTube; 10 part series

Crash Course: Media Literacy on YouTube; 12 part series

Assessing Expertise on YouTube; 2:30ish

How to Choose Your News on YouTube; 4:48