WHAT IS FACT-CHECKING Fact-checking is a set of practices and tools that allow you to verify information. It is the process of investigating an issue to verify the facts. A fact is something known to be true and can be proved. Any type of content can be fact-checked: photos, videos, rumours shared on social networks. DYNAMICS OF FACT-CHECKING GUIDE TO FACT-CHECKING AND INFORMATION VERIFICATION Fact-checking in the newsroom It refers to internal fact-checking during newsgathering and sub-editing before an article is published or broadcast. Fact-checking as a practice The focus is on verifying information that is already in the public domain. This usually focuses on verifying the accuracy of claims made by public figures, organisations and media platforms. WHY DO FACTS MATTER? Factual information will help news audiences effectively make decisions on pertinent issues. For example, during elections, the electorate needs accurate information to make informed decisions. Facts help us understand a country’s most complex economic and social problems. Facts have the potential to minimise the impact of information disorders. During the Covid-19 pandemic, journalists relied on facts from the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Ministry of Health and Child Care to preserve the lives of their audiences. A person’s credibility is tied to his or her capacity to tell the truth. 5