How to Work to Verify with the Reliable Source Before You Write

Factual Accuracy - How to Work to Be Factually Accurate

Think of this as coaching on how to meet this requirement. If you need for me to talk with you about this, just ask.

You must use reliable sources to verify everything that you write or say. To verify a fact means to confirm that the reliable source specifically states that fact (whether you wrote the words or the author did). — With bosses (or professors), you will be in trouble if you are incorrect so never guess and instead verify before you write or speak.

If you follow the method for preparing to write a practical essay to read, analyze, and create a short list of possible things you will cover, you will have your reminders for what content you plan to cover and the page number where you can find that content.

Do make sure to build double checking into your habits. When you are figuring out the content and planning what you will write, double check to be sure:

· That the facts that you write in your own words are in the source.
Caution: You cannot just assert that a fact is true. You must have evidence—a specific place in the source—beyond your own feelings or memory.
Regardless of the requirements of your professor or your boss, you should always know where you found the facts that you say are true. It is the only safe way to think—and pass the course or keep your job.

· That the facts that are in the author’s words are unchanged between the opening quotation mark (“) and the closing one (”)

For some people, touching the fact in the source and in your list of what you plan to cover helps them. This visual might help.

If you decide to do the alternative assignment which does require citations, I will provide instructions for you.

WCJC Department:	History – Dr. Bibus
Contact Information:	281.239.1577 or bibusc@wcjc.edu
Last Updated:	2014
WCJC Home:	http://www.wcjc.edu/