Read the claim precisely
State in one sentence what the author claims. Separate facts, explanations and opinions.
First steps
Understand the foundations
This page helps you approach a disputed claim as a question that can be checked, rather than as a ready-made answer. No specialist knowledge is required—only curiosity about how a conclusion was reached.
How should you begin?
Find the original source
Instead of relying on a news story or short clip, find the full study, lecture, court document or official record.
Examine the method
What was measured, in which sample, against what comparison, and which limitations did the authors identify?
Compare multiple perspectives
Assess conflicting interpretations using the same questions and the same standard of evidence.
Mark uncertainty clearly
“Possible”, “probable” and “demonstrated” are not interchangeable. A conclusion should not be stronger than its evidence.
Follow the references
Check whether a cited source really supports the statement attributed to it.
Four distinctions that matter
Data and interpretation
Data are observed or measured results; interpretation is a possible explanation of those results.
Correlation and causation
Two events occurring together does not by itself demonstrate that one caused the other.
Hypothesis and evidence
A hypothesis is a testable proposition. Evidence is the data and investigation that support or weaken it.
Legal and scientific claims
A court decision resolves procedural and legal questions; it does not replace scientific investigation.
Where next?
Where next?
Once you know the foundations, browse the content or use the detailed methodology checklist.