The SIFT method was developed by Mike Caulfield, a digital information literacy expert at Washington State University. SIFT uses lateral reading, which is about verifying information and its source by looking at other sites as—or even before—you read. Professional fact-checkers use lateral reading all the time.
You can use the SIFT method to decide if a news story is trustworthy with these four simple steps:
S = Stop
False or misleading news stories can be harmful and often trigger emotions like surprise, disgust or anger. Before sharing an emotional story, stop and take a moment to verify it.
I = Investigate the source
Use Wikipedia, one of the world’s biggest free online encyclopedias, to investigate the source of the story. While Wikipedia has its limitations, it’s a useful resource and an effective tool for these types of quick checks. Look for the source’s qualifications, such as year established and expertise, and watch out for hidden agendas or associated controversies.
F = Find trusted coverage
Search for relevant news articles on the topic. It’s not a good sign if you can't find trusted reporting on the topic in another reputable news outlet.
T = Trace back to the original
One of the most common sources of false or misleading information comes from photos, quotes and headlines presented out of context. Find out if what you’re seeing and reading is being represented accurately by tracing it back to the original.
Tip: The SIFT method always starts with Stop. The other steps can be followed in any order, and you may not need to do them all every time.