# Downloadable Fact-Checking Checklist and Claim Log

Verify figures, quotations, dates, comparisons, and product details with a reusable claim log that records evidence, qualifiers, and decisions.

## Usage note

Check the claim that the draft actually makes, not a safer or broader substitute. Preserve source dates and unresolved disagreements so a later reviewer can reproduce the decision.

## How to use this template

1. Extract every checkable statement into the claim log.
2. Prioritize claims that could materially mislead a reader.
3. Find the closest available primary source and record its date.
4. Check definitions, denominators, quotations, qualifiers, and conflicting evidence.
5. Correct the draft and preserve a reproducible verification record.

## Blank template

### Claim log

Duplicate these fields for each claim.

- **Claim as written:** [Copy the exact sentence]
- **Claim type:** [Number / Quote / Date / Product / Comparison / Other]
- **Consequence if wrong:** [Low / Medium / High]
- **Primary source:** [Title and URL or document reference]
- **Supporting source:** [Optional independent source]
- **Source date:** [YYYY-MM-DD or stated version]
- **Date accessed:** [YYYY-MM-DD]
- **Relevant evidence:** [Summarize the supporting passage]
- **Required qualifier:** [Add scope, period, or uncertainty]
- **Status:** [Verified / Revised / Removed / Unresolved]

### Source evaluation

- [ ] The source is in a position to know the information.
- [ ] The evidence supports the precise wording used.
- [ ] The source is current enough for the claim.
- [ ] A summary was checked against the underlying document when available.
- [ ] Commercial interests and methodological limitations were considered.

### Numbers and comparisons

- [ ] Units, date ranges, sample sizes, and definitions are present.
- [ ] Percentages have a clear denominator.
- [ ] Comparisons use equivalent definitions and periods.
- [ ] Important calculations were independently reproduced.
- [ ] Vendor-reported figures are clearly attributed.

### Quotations and media

- [ ] The wording, speaker, date, and source are correct.
- [ ] Surrounding context does not change the quoted meaning.
- [ ] The original source is linked when available.
- [ ] Captions do not overstate what an image or chart demonstrates.

### Final record

- **Unresolved claims:** [List claims or write None]
- **Corrections made:** [Summarize changes]
- **Reviewer:** [Enter name]
- **Review date:** [YYYY-MM-DD]
- **Next scheduled review:** [Date or update trigger]