Proofreading & Editing Fact-Checking & Accuracy

Question 1

A fact-checker discovers that a quoted statistic in an article cannot be verified through primary sources. What is the most appropriate action?

Accepted Answer

Remove the statistic and notify the author

Answer

Unverified statistics should be removed and the author notified so they can provide a verifiable source or revise the claim.

Question 2

Which of the following is considered a primary source for fact-checking?

Accepted Answer

The original peer-reviewed study being cited

Answer

A primary source is the original document or data, such as the peer-reviewed study itself, not a secondary account of it.

Question 3

When fact-checking a historical date in an article, which approach is most reliable?

Accepted Answer

Confirm it with at least two independent authoritative sources

Answer

Cross-referencing two or more independent authoritative sources is standard practice for verifying historical facts.

Question 4

An article states a public figure 'admitted to fraud.' The fact-checker finds only that the person pleaded no contest. What should the editor do?

Accepted Answer

Change 'admitted to fraud' to accurately reflect the legal outcome

Answer

A no-contest plea is not an admission of guilt, so the text must be corrected to accurately reflect the legal record.

Question 5

Which of the following best describes the role of fact-checking in the editorial process?

Accepted Answer

Verifying that claims, data, and quotes are accurate and attributable

Answer

Fact-checking specifically involves verifying the truthfulness and attributability of factual claims, data, and quotations.

Proofreading & Editing Practice Test