Fact-Checking Process

1. Highlight every fact, figure or claim in the piece that needs to be checked

2. Create a copy of the Fact-Checking Spreadsheet in the story folder

3. List all the the facts that you identified in the first step in the left column

4. As you go through each fact, list the method (whether it's verified by a primary or secondary source) by which you looked into it, the source itself and the date in which you looked into it

5. If you can verify the accuracy, check the box in that column

6. If not, correct the statement if only a slight adjustment is needed. Otherwise, leave a note in the last column as to why you couldn't verify it

For interviews and meetings:

• Refer to any recordings or transcripts of the interviews or meetings

• If the reporter did not record the interview or it can't be verified from the recording, contact the source directly and tell them you want to double-check a few claims in the story

CUNY: Fact Checking & Verification for Reporting

Public Media Alliance: Fact Checking & Investigative Journalism Tools