Fact-checking methodology isn’t about finding any source that agrees with you—it’s about finding the most reliable, transparent, and independently verifiable information available, regardless of whether it supports or challenges your assumptions.
Here’s how to do it right:
Step 1: Identify the Claim Clearly
Break the claim into its core components:
- What is being stated as fact? (e.g. “Red 40 causes hyperactivity in children.”)
- Is it a causal claim, a correlation, a policy decision, or just opinion?
- Is there a specific number or source referenced?
Step 2: Determine the Right Type of Source
Not all sources are created equal. Prioritize these:
Primary Sources (Best)
- Peer-reviewed scientific studies
- Government databases (CDC, FDA, NIH, EFSA, EWG, etc.)
- Court documents or declassified files
- Official reports from credible institutions
Secondary Sources (Good if they cite primaries)
- News articles from outlets that cite their sources (e.g., Reuters, AP, Science News)
- Academic summaries or literature reviews
- Websites like Snopes or PolitiFact (with caution—verify their citations)
Avoid or Vet Carefully:
- Random infographics
- Uncited TikToks, Reels, or screenshots
- Blogs or subreddits without citations
- Anything with broken links or unverifiable data
Step 3: Check for Scientific Consensus
- Does the claim align with the majority of expert opinion?
- Are there meta-analyses or systematic reviews on the topic?
- Use databases like:
Step 4: Look for Contradictions and Limitations
- Are conflicts of interest disclosed?
- Is the study funded by industry (e.g., Coca-Cola-funded sugar studies)?
- Is the sample size meaningful? Is it human research or just mouse models?
- Do other experts critique or confirm the findings?
Step 5: Cross-Check Multiple Sources
- Don’t rely on one headline or one study.
- See how the topic is treated by:
- Public health organizations (e.g., WHO, OEHHA, EWG)
- Reputable journalism outlets
- Academic or nonprofit research groups
Step 6: Date Check & Contextualize
- Is the information recent or outdated?
- Has the science evolved?
- Has the policy or regulation changed since publication?
Step 7: Trace the Source of Virality
If the claim comes from a viral post, ask:
- Where did it originate?
- Is it citing a study that was misrepresented in the media?
- Is the stat being quoted out of context or exaggerated?
Example:
“Vaccines reduce heart attacks by 65%” → Was actually a 10–27% reduction, mostly from AstraZeneca in a UK-only study.
Step 8: Ask “Who Benefits?”
Every claim has a context:
- Is someone selling a product, pushing a political narrative, or defending a system?
- Who loses if the truth comes out?
This isn’t about paranoia—it’s about recognizing motivated reasoning and institutional incentives.
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