Proofreading & Editing Fact-Checking & Accuracy 3

Question 1

A published article contains a factual error that was caught after going live. What is the standard editorial practice?

Accepted Answer

Issue a visible correction notice explaining what was wrong and what the correct information is

Answer

Standard editorial practice requires a transparent correction notice that identifies the error and states the accurate information, maintaining reader trust.

Question 2

Which of the following scenarios represents a conflict of interest that could compromise fact-checking?

Accepted Answer

A fact-checker assigned to verify claims about a company in which they hold stock

Answer

Holding financial interest in a company creates a conflict of interest when fact-checking claims about that company, as the fact-checker may be biased in favor of certain findings.

Question 3

What is the difference between an 'error of commission' and an 'error of omission' in fact-checking?

Accepted Answer

Commission = stating something false; omission = leaving out information that changes meaning

Answer

An error of commission involves stating something that is factually false, while an error of omission involves leaving out context or information that would change the reader's understanding.

Question 4

An article states a law 'went into effect in 2019.' The fact-checker finds it was signed in 2019 but did not take effect until 2021. This is best described as:

Accepted Answer

A factual error that must be corrected

Answer

The distinction between signing and enactment dates is legally and factually significant; conflating them constitutes a factual error requiring correction.

Question 5

When should a fact-checker consult a subject-matter expert?

Accepted Answer

When the content involves technical or specialized claims that cannot be verified through standard sources

Answer

Subject-matter experts should be consulted whenever technical or specialized claims exceed the fact-checker's ability to verify through standard reference sources.

Proofreading & Editing Practice Test

Proofreading & Editing Practice Test

Proofreading & Editing Fact-Checking & Accuracy 3