Resources for Research and Doctoral Students

It is important not to take research sources at face value. You should give sufficient consideration to websites, books, articles and other resources that you you draw upon for your research. The CRAAP Test is a memorable acronym which covers the key things to consider.

• Currency
• Relevance
• Authority
• Accuracy
• Purpose

There could be valid occasions when a resource does not meet the criteria of the CRAAP Test but as long as you are mindful of this at the time of using it, that is what matters. For example, there may be reasons for your research to use a resource even though it is not the most up-to-date.

The CRAAP method is useful to investigate a source using details from that source itself but you should also think wider in your evaluation.  The SIFT model helps you to evaluate the source not just on its own but within a wider context.  This method is particularly helpful in the battle against misinformation. Click on the question marks below to find out more.

Critical thinking and analysis is a process of:

• Gathering information
  • Identify relevant sources.
  • Keep an open mind: don't let your own biases affect your judgement.
  • Consider a variety of possible viewpoints or perspectives.
• Questioning
  • Remember the key questions of what, why, how, who, where and when – plus what if, so what, what next…
  • What are the main themes and arguments, who is the author- what is their expertise, when was it published or last updated, why has it been created and who for, what is the evidence, how have they come to that conclusion?
  • Analyse the information on a topic, compare and contrast different sources.
• Evaluating information and assertions
  • Use relevant and trustworthy sources of information.  See our guide on evaluating sources. 
  • Consider the strengths and weaknesses of the arguments.
  • Distinguish between fact and opinion.
  • Be alert to bias, stereotypes, prejudices and distortion which may be presented as facts.
• Forming judgements and developing logical arguments- based on reasoning and the evidence you have gathered.

BBC Ideas present some key strategies for critical thinking:

In your writing it's important to be analytical and critical.  Don't use a descriptive, personal or journalistic style.  Instead use the sources you have read and critically analysed to develop logical arguments backed by evidence.

Developing logical arguments

By argument we do not just mean to fight or disagree with something. An argument is a claim about a topic that is supported by reasons and evidence. In your writing you will need to construct an argument to justify your position. This means that you will need to:

• Research and evaluate your evidence.
• Use reputable, scholarly, and unbiased sources.
• Draw conclusions based on the arguments and evidence of others.
• Make your own ‘case’, supported by arguments that you put together.
• Present evidence and examples to support your reasoning and argument.
• Present each reason and the evidence for it in logical order.
• Link your ideas and information.
• Show a clear line of reasoning, leading to your conclusion.