In today’s diverse and rapidly evolving media landscape—spanning traditional television broadcasts, online platforms, and increasingly influenced by artificial intelligence (AI)—the ability to critically evaluate information has become essential. With the constant influx of content from academic journals, social media updates, and daily news reports, distinguishing factual, reliable information from misleading or biased content is a growing challenge. To address this, this column introduces the mnemonic CAT test—Check, Ask, Think (Fig. 1). This user-friendly evaluative framework is designed to empower individuals—from those engaged in academic research to those assessing everyday information—to effectively evaluate the credibility and trustworthiness of content across various media channels (Table 1).
The CAT test draws inspiration from the innate curiosity of cats, known for their vigilant exploration and discernment of their surroundings. Much like these feline companions, the CAT test encourages individuals to approach information with a keen sense of inquiry and scrutiny. By embodying the inquisitive nature of cats, the framework distills the complex task of information evaluation into three straightforward steps: Checking facts for accuracy, Asking critical questions, and Thinking deeply without letting emotions cloud judgment. This approach not only simplifies the process but also instills a mindset of thoughtful consideration, helping users navigate the confusing expanse of information with clarity and confidence.
Simplicity and Memorability
A key strength of the CAT test is its simplicity. Unlike more complex frameworks that can overwhelm users with numerous criteria, the CAT test focuses on three clear and memorable steps: Check, Ask, Think. This streamlined approach ensures that individuals can easily recall and apply the test whenever they encounter new information. Its simplicity makes it accessible to everyone, from the general public to students and professionals, facilitating critical thinking in a user-friendly manner.
Broad Applicability
The CAT test is versatile and broadly applicable, making it an invaluable tool for evaluating information across diverse sources. Whether analyzing an academic paper, a news article, or an online post, the CAT test provides a robust framework that can be universally applied. Its adaptability across diverse sources ensures users maintain high standards of information quality in an era where scrutinizing information from varied mediums is crucial.
Encouraging Critical Thinking
At its core, the CAT test promotes a culture of critical thinking. By encouraging users to Check the facts, Ask critical questions, and Think deeply about the information, the test fosters a reflective and analytical mindset. This approach goes beyond mere fact-checking; it cultivates an inquisitive attitude that is essential for navigating the complexities of modern information landscapes. The CAT test not only helps users identify credible sources but also enhances their overall information literacy.
Practicality and User-Friendliness
The CAT test stands out for its practical nature. Its user-friendly design ensures that individuals can quickly and effectively evaluate information without requiring extensive training or resources. This practicality is crucial in fast-paced environments where quick judgments are necessary. Each step of the CAT test—Check, Ask, Think—involves actionable tasks that guide users through the evaluation process, making it a dynamic and engaging tool.
Why CAT test? A Fresh Perspective
While many evaluative frameworks exist, such as ACT UP Method (Stahura, 2018), CARS Checklist (Harris, 1997), CRAAP Test (Blakeslee, 2004), and SIFT Method (Caulfield, 2019), the CAT test distinguishes itself by focusing on simplicity and ease of use. Unlike some frameworks that can be complex or overwhelming, the CAT test offers a straightforward, practical solution for information evaluation. By emphasizing simplicity and broad applicability, the CAT test provides a refreshing approach to critical thinking that is accessible and effective. Furthermore, the CAT test is particularly relevant in today’s information-rich environment, where the sheer volume and diversity of content make traditional frameworks less practical. Unlike other models that may focus on specific types of sources or require extensive training, the CAT test provides a universally applicable method that can be quickly employed across various contexts, from academic research to everyday decision-making. This adaptability makes it not only a novel approach but also a necessary one for addressing contemporary challenges in information evaluation.
By offering a fresh perspective on information assessment, the CAT test fills a critical gap left by more complex frameworks. Its focus on essential, easily memorable steps ensures that it can be effectively used by individuals at all levels of expertise, making it a valuable addition to the landscape of evaluative tools.
Conclusion
The CAT test—Check, Ask, Think—offers a clear and practical method for evaluating information, making it ideal for both academics and everyday users. Its straightforward approach, broad applicability, and emphasis on critical thinking make it a go-to tool in the vast, sometimes bewildering, world of information. In an era where information is everywhere, but trust is in short supply, the CAT test shines as a beacon of clarity, helping you navigate the noise with confidence. So, the next time you encounter new or old information, remember to Check for accuracy, Ask the right questions, and Think with your brain, not your emotions—Meow!
Robert Tomaszewski, PhD, MISt, is a Science Information Specialist at the Library of California State University, Fullerton.
References
Blakeslee, S. (2004) The CRAAP Test. LOEX Quarterly, 31(3), 6-7. https://commons.emich.edu/loexquarterly/vol31/iss3/4
Caulfield, M. (2019, June 19). SIFT (The Four Moves) [Blog Post]. Hapgood. https://hapgood.us/2019/06/19/sift-the-four-moves/
Harris, R. (1997). Evaluating internet research sources. Virtual Salt, 17(1), 1-17. https://www.virtualsalt.com/evalu8it.htm
Stahura, D. (2018). ACT UP for evaluating sources: Pushing against privilege. College & Research Libraries News, 79(10), 551-552. https://doi.org/10.5860/crln.79.10.551