Watch for headline red flags
Bias or sensationalism often shows up first in headlines. Spotting telltale signs helps avoid misleading content.
Quick checks:
- Look for emotionally loaded words or superlatives.
- Watch for headlines that assert facts without attribution.
- Be wary of headlines that oversimplify or imply causation without evidence.
- Cross-check the headline against the article body and other reporting.
If a headline seems charged, scan the first two paragraphs for sources and direct quotes. Reliable pieces will support claims with verifiable evidence.