Thinking of sharing a news story? Use the SIFT method first!

Sometimes, separating fact from fiction when evaluating online information can be tricky.

As you review news on social media or explore articles, how can you confirm that the content is trustworthy and reliable?

You might start by going through a mental checklist:

• Is the source dependable?

• Does the author quote sources?

• Does the headline look outrageous or full of questions or exclamation marks?

• Does the author cite footnotes?

This is a solid start, but you may need to assess further as it’s easy for anyone to design a webpage that looks professional.

This is where the SIFT method proves useful!

It's a quick and simple method of reading a text to evaluate the content.

The SIFT method is a set of steps you can use to check if information and sources on the internet are true and reliable. It builds on simple checklists for evaluating online content.

Each SIFT letter represents one of "the Four Moves":

1. S is for "STOP"

In today's fast-paced world, our constant use of phones and work demands can make us rush through life. Being online, where news and content move quickly and can stir up strong emotions, can make you feel as if you need to act fast.

When it comes to spotting false information, acting quickly isn't helpful. Research shows that trusting your first instincts can cause you to make mistakes.

Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash

The first step of the SIFT method helps with this: Stop! Don't share or comment.

2. I is for "Investigate the source"

Social media feeds often show posts without clear information about who created them, whether they're shared by friends, suggested by algorithms, or followed without background research.

Investigating the source means that you should look up the author, content, and publisher.

Photo by Dmitry Ratushny on Unsplash

3. F is for "Find better coverage"

It's important to know what you are reading before you read it.

Photo by Vrînceanu Iulia on Unsplash

Look into what the source knows about the topic and what its goals are to make sure it’s credible and relevant.

Use Wikipedia in the search bar to find out more information about the source outside of the source.

4. T is for "Trace claims and quotes to the original source"

Be aware of headlines, blogs, or tweets that inflate facts to gain attention.

Photo by AbsolutVision on Unsplash

When information is re-reported, it can blur or exclude essential details, promoting biased viewpoints.

For a complete understanding of statements, read them in their original context.

Try this quiz to test your knowledge of the SIFT method to evaluate news sources for reliability and accuracy. Read the 4 questions and then choose the correct answers in the box below.

Scenario:

You come across a news article shared on social media about a breakthrough in medical research claiming to cure a common disease. The article is from a website you're not familiar with. Using the SIFT method, how would you evaluate the reliability of this news source?

1. What should you do first before reacting to or sharing the article?

A. Immediately share it with others.

B. Like the post to show your support.

C. Stop and refrain from sharing until you verify the information.

D. Comment your opinion on the article.

2. What steps can you take to investigate the credibility of the news website?

A. Trust the article if it supports your beliefs.

B. Search the internet for additional articles that confirm the same information.

C. Ignore the source and continue on.

D. Research the website to verify its reputation for accuracy.

3. Where can you search to find reliable information to verify the claims made in the article?

A. Check social media for comments on the article.

B. Only read the original article for information.

C. Look for information in credible medical journals or news publications.

D. Assume the article is true based on how the website's appearance.

4. If the news article mentions a study or research, what should you do next to verify the claims?

A. Share the article to create awareness.

B. Disregard the study if it comes from an unknown source.

C. Read the study in its original context to better understand the findings.

D. Trust the news report without verifying the study.

We're bombarded by information (and misinformation) all day long, from the computer screen to the TV screen to TikTok.

Following the SIFT method steps before deciding to share a claim might seem time-consuming but SIFTing through the information may help you:

• Read, view, or listen to digital content effectively.

• Save you embarrassment.

• Help ensure you're not spreading misinformation.

Be media smart! Check out these resources: