Principles of Citizen Journalism

Accuracy & fact-checking: How to get it right

Accuracy

Thoroughness

Fairness

Transparency

Independence

Resources

The team behind this project

SECTIONS

Accuracy & fact-checking
How to get it right

Thoroughness
Going the extra yard for information

Fairness
Treating opposing points of view with respect

Transparency
Disclosure a key ingredient in gaining trust

Independence
Following the story wherever it leads

Interviews
Tapping into the wisdom of the community

Resources
Where to find more information

Accuracy tip sheet

When a reporter is writing about you

See the comments

Accuracy and fact-checking in journalism

What process do conscientious journalists follow to ensure that their stories meet the standards of their craft? In this audio slide show, we interview three veteran journalists:

* Amy Gahran, editor of the weblogs Contentious and The Right Conversation (hear her full interview)

* Brooks Jackson, director of Factcheck.org (hear his full interview)

* Courtney Lowery, managing editor of New West (hear her full interview)

"Accuracy is also a perception and being careful to make sure that you have got things in context and that you understand things fully."
—Courtney Lowery

Slide show producer: Laura Lo Forti
Format: Flash (download Flash here)
Length: 4:34

Photos across top of page (from left to right) by Rob Milsom, Tom Magliery, Elaine Yeung, Stefan Jansson, Geren W. Mortensen, Jr., John Cumisky