Reading a fact-check carefully

A fact-check examines a particular factual claim and explains what the available evidence supports. It can save readers time by tracing records, consulting relevant specialists, and comparing a circulating statement with its source.

A verdict such as true, false, or misleading is a summary of that work. To understand it, read the exact claim and the explanation behind the label.

The useful question is how the check reached its conclusion. A label does not replace evidence, and disagreement with a verdict does not by itself show that the checking was unfair.