LibGuides: TRiO Workshop -- Fake News: Tools to Expose Fake News

Critical Thinking

Questions to ask yourself:

Does the story attempt to manipulate your emotions?
Is the writer identified? If so, what are his/her qualifications?
Does the writer explain where s/he is getting this information? Is it from a legitimate source?
Are the facts correct? How can you tell?
What kind of ads are included?
Are there any (or other) mainstream sources that have also reported on this event?

Demographics and Statistics Resources
Resource guide put together by LC library with links to legitimate sources for statistics.

America's News This link opens in a new window
Newspaper database. Newspapers are a good source of information about current events. Check to see if you can find multiple sources reporting on the topic you're researching.
Credo Reference This link opens in a new window
This source has credible reference material on many subjects. It is best used for basic research on a topic, not for information on current events.

Snopes.com
The oldest internet fact-checking website. Provides facts on rumors, urban legends, folklore, fake news. Good general-purpose site.
Factcheck.org
Mainly focuses on political topics. Provides research and sources to back up its findings. From the Annenberg Public Policy Center.
SciCheck
Fact-checks scientific claims made in the media that are currently circulating in public conversation. From Annenberg Public Policy Center.
Texas Politifact
Rates the truthfulness of statements that have recently made news in Texas. Fact checking is mainly handled by The Austin American Statesman, The Houston Chronicle and San Antonio Express-News.
Politifact
Rates the truthfulness of public statements made in the media, mainly by political figures. From the Poynter Institute.