Fact Checking
it takes time!
Researching the facts!
Hi everyone.
One common thing that I came across when researching for articles is this. Whilst we have the wonderful power of the Internet and the all-knowing Google (other search engines are available), it can be difficult to verify facts. Be wary of all who rush to use Artificial Intelligence such as ChatGTP and its claim to produce wonderful answers. It can be very wrong because it can only pull out information it has been fed. It can’t check and double-check.
Some of the information that is problematic for me is the historical detail of the places I visit. I have seen conflicting information within the same reference, which means one of them was mistyped, and that requires more delving to see which is right. I assume that now, much is written by the authors without an editor and proofreader. Errors go unnoticed. When things went to print rather than online, no one wanted the cost of having to reprint and took extra care.
I see errors all the time online, especially in local newspapers (and occasionally national ones), where the journalists are adding their own words to the website without them being checked. I know only too well how difficult it is to check your own work, especially if you are publishing soon after writing. It’s very hard to spot our own errors, and it’s why I will often wait for a week before finally hitting the publish button. This gives my brain time to clear the path it was on at the time of writing.
For me to verify every last detail would be too time-consuming, so I will mention it as doubtful or leave it out where there is a doubt. Writing an article can take many hours of research to make sure that I find the most relevant and interesting information. On top of that, of course, is the visit itself. I aim to entertain as well as inform wherever possible. I always try to take my own photographs to use in the articles. I must mention my #Rolagrams, where I share more photos with you.
Not too long ago, I turned on the paid subscriber option to help cover my costs. I am genuinely grateful to everyone who takes up this option. All new subscribers are being given an option of a 7-day free trial trial, and at the moment, there is a very special offer of 50% off for the first twelve months. This offer ends on October 31st. Plus, see the link above to have an opportunity to win a 3-month paid subscription. It’s a very simple task to be in with the chance to win.
Thank you for your support.
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