Source Methodology

01

Reporting begins with evidence

We start with the most direct available evidence: original documents, firsthand observation, knowledgeable interviews, public data, official records, and attributable statements. Secondary reports may help identify leads but do not replace verification.

02

Source hierarchy and verification

Not all evidence carries equal weight. Reporters evaluate proximity to the event, knowledge, motive, documentary support, internal consistency, and independent corroboration.

• Prefer primary records and firsthand witnesses.
• Corroborate consequential claims with independent evidence.
• Distinguish confirmed facts from estimates and allegations.
• Link to source material when it helps readers evaluate the claim.

03

Anonymous sources

Anonymous sourcing is reserved for information of public importance that cannot reasonably be obtained on the record. The newsroom knows the source's identity and evaluates the source's access, reliability, and possible motives.

• Anonymity is not granted for convenience.
• Descriptions should explain how the source knows the information.
• Serious claims require corroboration whenever possible.
• Editors review the justification before publication.

04

Documents, media, and data

We authenticate documents, photographs, video, audio, and datasets before relying on them. Methods may include provenance checks, metadata review, geolocation, comparison with independent records, and consultation with qualified experts.

05

Explaining uncertainty

Reporting should be as precise about its limits as it is about its findings. We disclose when facts remain unverified, when estimates vary, when evidence is incomplete, or when a source has a relevant interest.

• Use calibrated language rather than false certainty.
• Attribute contested claims.
• State what is not yet known.
• Update the story when verification changes the record.

06

Source notes and reader review

When the sourcing behind a story needs extra explanation, we add a methodology or source note. Readers may ask about evidence, but we will not reveal a confidential source or unpublished material when doing so would violate a legitimate commitment or create avoidable harm.