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Step 1
Read over the article with an eye towards the cited facts. Use your instinct here: what sounds a little too smooth to be true? What sounds off? Make notes of these occurrences, along with details such as sources quoted, location and any other pertinent details.
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Step 2
Use the Internet as a jumping-off point in researching inaccuracies. Look up the information cited in the piece, and look for links which either support or rebuff the assertions made. Many facts will be settled at this stage. Print out supporting documentation in each case.
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Step 3
For those facts which cannot be verified through the Internet, make notes of sources you've come across in researching the piece who can shed some light on the issue. Follow up with them, clearly stating your reasons for approaching them. Many will be happy to help you.
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Step 4
Touch base with the author of the piece for more information on lingering issues: where did he procure the information? What sources did he use? Follow up on the information provided, and try to verify it against at least one other piece of independently researched evidence.
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Step 5
For those issues which cannot be resolved through fact-checking, use the counsel of the editor. He is in a position to make a judgment call, based on the article and your research, whether to keep a piece of information in the piece.
Comments
Meri said
on 6/23/2008 I am glad I came across your article! Good job.
writetruth said
on 5/17/2008 Very informative article - great training tool for me... (tried to post already ... so if you get 2 comments...) Well Written. 5 Stars ~!~
writetruth said
on 5/17/2008 This article has been an excellent training tool for me... Very well written! 5 Stars ~!~