What you need
- AI-generated answer (text)
- Access to the internet
- Notepad to record findings
Every step
- 1
Highlight key claims
Underline or copy the main facts from the answer. For example, if AI says 'The Eiffel Tower was completed in 1889,' note 'Eiffel Tower completed in 1889' as your key claim for research.
CHECKPOINT · Main facts clearly listed for checking - 2
Search for primary, official, or consensus sources
Use a search engine to find reputable websites (official sites, academic, widely accepted encyclopedias). Example: Search 'Eiffel Tower completion date' and check if multiple respected sources (like Britannica or Paris’s official page) agree on the date.
CHECKPOINT · At least two reputable sources found - 3
Compare details and look for discrepancies
Check specifics—dates, numbers, names—in your sources versus the AI response. For the Eiffel Tower, do respected sources agree with 1889? Note any mismatches. If sources conflict, dig further until you find a consensus.
CHECKPOINT · Similar or matching info exists in other sources - 4
Spot unverified or unsourced statements
If the AI answer includes statements like 'experts believe' without referencing a specific source, note these as unverified. Example: If it says 'The Eiffel Tower is the most-visited paid monument'—look for a supporting statistic or citation.
CHECKPOINT · All key claims marked as verified or unverified - 5
Document your findings for each claim
Make a simple table: Claim | Verified? | Source. For example: | Claim | Verified? | Source | |-------------------------------|-----------|----------------| | Eiffel Tower finished 1889 | Yes | Britannica.com | | Most-visited paid monument | No | — |
CHECKPOINT · A table lists each claim and its verification status
Common mistakes
- AI answers can sound correct but still be inaccurate or out-of-date.
- Websites ranking high in search results are not always authoritative.
Finished when
All main claims are marked as verified or unverified based on independent, reputable external sources.
Questions about this task
Is Wikipedia a reliable source for fact-checking?
Wikipedia is often accurate but check its referenced sources, especially for controversial, recent, or technical topics. Use it as a starting point, not your only source.
What should I do if sources disagree?
List all findings. If in doubt, present the disagreement or look for consensus among trusted expert or official sites.
Make these steps fit your situation.
Ask a question about this task or prepare a draft you can review.
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