HOW TO WRITE A FACT-CHECK: Master the art of writing a fact-check is a presentation by Emmanuel Bida Thomas 211 Check Editor and Coordinator in a training session supported by the International Fact-checking Network (IFCN) as part of efforts to enhance the culture of fact-checking in South Sudan.

1. HOW TO WRITE A FACT-CHECK
Saturday, 27 January 2024
Get the facts right! Master the art
of writing a fact-check

2. Trainer’s Bio Emmanuel Bida Thomas is an Editor and
211 Check Project Coordinator at
Defyhatenow South Sudan.
He trains on fact-checking and
information verification, teaches
internet research, social media
management and marketing, and google
productivity tools.
Emmanuel Bida Thomas

3. Training
Objectives
● Understand the importance
of fact-checking in the
digital age.
● Learn the methodologies for
effective fact-checking.
● Master the art of writing
compelling and accurate
fact-check reports.

4. Understanding Fact-checking
What is Fact-checking?
● Fact-checking involves verifying factual assertions in public
discourse to ensure accuracy.
● It's distinct from but related to other forms of verification and
debunking.
The Importance of Fact-checking
● Fact-checking upholds journalistic integrity, informs the public,
and supports democratic processes.
● Ethical considerations include fairness, transparency, and
accountability.

5. Identifying Claims to Check
• Sources of claims: social media, news outlets, public figures.
• Focus on claims that are influential, widely shared, or potentially
harmful (Criteria for selecting claims to fact-check).
• Prioritization is key due to the volume of information.
• Distinguishing between facts, opinions, and propaganda.
The Fact-checking Process

6. Research and Verification
• Primary vs. secondary sources
• Utilize reliable sources, digital tools databases, and expert
consultations.
• Emphasize the importance of cross-verification and maintaining an
unbiased approach.
The Fact-checking Process

7. Structuring Your Fact-check Report
• Start with a clear statement of the claim, followed by the
verification process and conclusion.
• Use a logical and reader-friendly format.
1. Introduction:
Presenting the claim.
2. Body:
Evidence, analysis, and findings.
3. Conclusion:
Summarizing the veracity of the claim.
Writing a Fact-check Report

8. PesaCheck
Writing a Fact-check Report
PesaCheck
Africa Check
AFP Fact-check
Introduction

9. Writing a Fact-check Report
PesaCheck
Africa Check
AFP Fact-check
Body

10. PesaCheck
Writing a Fact-check Report
PesaCheck
Africa Check
AFP Fact-check
Conclusion

11. Language and Tone
• Maintain neutrality and objectivity.
• Avoid technical jargon to ensure accessibility to a
broad audience.
Writing a Fact-check Report

12. Citing Sources
•Citing sources is crucial in fact-checking
to maintain credibility and transparency.
•It allows readers to verify the
information independently and ensures
the fact-checker's accountability.
•Assess the source's authority, accuracy,
objectivity, currency, and coverage.

13. Types of Sources
Primary Sources:
Direct evidence or first-hand accounts of events,
including official records, eyewitness accounts, or
statistical data.
Secondary Sources:
Interpretations or analyses based on primary sources,
such as academic papers or news articles.
Tertiary Sources:
Collections or summaries of primary and secondary
sources, like encyclopedias or databases.

14. Challenges in Fact-Checking
• Volume of Information:
The sheer amount of information and speed at which it
spreads online makes it challenging to fact-check
everything.
• Advanced Misinformation Techniques:
The use of deepfakes, AI-generated texts, and sophisticated
disinformation campaigns complicates verification
processes.
• Bias and Perception:
Personal biases and public perceptions can influence both
the fact-checking process and how fact-check results are
received by the audience.
• Access to Sources:
Limited access to primary sources or data can hinder the
ability to verify certain claims accurately.

15. Best Practices for Overcoming
Challenges
• Prioritization of Claims:
Focus on claims that have the potential for significant impact or are
widely circulated.
Use tools and algorithms to help identify and prioritize
misinformation.
• Leveraging Technology:
Utilize advanced tools and software designed for detecting
manipulated content, such as video verification tools and AI-based
text analysis.
• Transparency:
Be transparent about the fact-checking process, methodologies, and
any uncertainties or limitations in the findings.
This builds trust with the audience.

16. Best Practices for Overcoming
Challenges
• Engaging with Experts:
Collaborate with subject matter experts to enhance the accuracy and
depth of fact-checks.
Experts can provide insights and access to specialized databases or
information.
• Continuous Learning:
Stay updated with the latest trends in misinformation and the tools
available for fact-checking.
Participate in fact-checking networks and forums for sharing
knowledge and best practices.
• Educating the Public:
Part of the challenge is the public's susceptibility to misinformation.
Educational initiatives that promote media literacy can empower
audiences to critically evaluate information.

17. Ethical Considerations
• Fact-checkers must navigate ethical
considerations, including the potential for
inadvertently amplifying false claims or
impacting individuals' reputations.
• Ethical fact-checking involves careful
consideration of the public interest, respect for
privacy, and commitment to fairness and
accuracy.

18. References
1. https://www.poynter.org/educators-students/2016/how-to-
write-a-clear-fact-check/
2. https://www.tckpublishing.com/how-to-fact-check/
3. https://www.publicationcoach.com/how-to-fact-check-your
-own-writing/
4. https://fact.technology/learn/how-to-fact-check-5-effectiv
e-ways/
5. https://www.clearvoice.com/resources/how-to-fact-check-
your-sources/
6. https://pesacheck.org/altered-this-image-of-the-front-pag
e-of-ugandas-daily-monitor-is-doctored-9ade0e2291cc
7. https://africacheck.org/fact-checks/reports/nigerias-youth-
unemployment-rate-534-cryptocurrency-firm-goes-wrong
8. https://factcheck.afp.com/doc.afp.com.34GN99M

19. THANK YOU!
211 Check
info@211check.org | +211921350435
2024