Article Credibility Checklist

✅ Article Credibility and Fairness Checklist

Use this checklist in order of priority.

🔺 Priority 1: Source Credibility

• Is the publisher reputable (e.g., known news outlet, academic source)?
• Is the author identifiable and qualified?
• Does the author or source have a trustworthy track record?

🔺 Priority 2: Evidence and Support

• Are the claims backed by evidence or data?
• Are sources and links provided?
• Are statistics accurate and in context?

🔺 Priority 3: Bias and Balance

• Does the article acknowledge multiple viewpoints?
• Are opposing views presented fairly?
• Is the tone neutral rather than emotional or combative?

🔺 Priority 4: Purpose and Intent

• Is the article’s purpose clear (inform, persuade, entertain)?
• Is it news, opinion, or sponsored content?
• Is the intent to clarify or to manipulate?

🔺 Priority 5: Timeliness and Context

• Is the information current and relevant?
• Does it reflect recent developments?
• Is the historical or cultural context provided where needed?

🔺 Priority 6: Writing Quality and Professionalism

• Is the writing clear, typo-free, and well-edited?
• Is the structure logical and easy to follow?
• Does it appear professionally produced?

✅ Final Reflection

• Do I trust this article as a fair and reliable source?
• Have I cross-checked important claims elsewhere?

The 6 Dimensions of Quality

1. Source Credibility: Who is providing the information?

2. Evidence and Support: Is the information verifiable?

3. Bias and Balance: Is the information presented fairly?

4. Purpose and Intent: Why was the information created?

5. Timeliness and Context: Is the information current and relevant?

6. Writing Quality and Professionalism: How well is the information presented?