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2 · Foundations

How to Verify Information in 5 Minutes

Most suspicious stories can be checked in a few minutes – as long as you know where to look. In this course you will learn the SIFT method, the lateral reading used by professional fact-checkers, how to trace claims back to their original source, and how to spot photos and videos taken out of context. The course is for all adults and secondary school students; no technical knowledge is needed. Every lesson includes real-world examples and interactive practice.

4 lessonsabout 60 minutesquizzes and interactive gamesFree · after sign-up
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Course contents

  1. 1Stop: Emotions as a Signal and the SIFT MethodA strong emotion is a cue to slow down. The four SIFT moves tell you what to do next.
  2. 2Lateral Reading: How Fact-Checkers Do ItInstead of examining a page from the inside, open new tabs and find out what others say about the source.
  3. 3Trace the Original SourceHow to check a quote, a number or an image – and what web archives are for.
  4. 4Out of Context: Old Photos, Recycled News and SatireThe most common deceptions are not invented – they are real things placed in the wrong story.