Research · · verified August 10, 2026
Research Fact Checking Escalation Paths
How research teams route uncertain claims before they become publication defects.
Key stats
- Central unsupported claims require escalation before publication.
- Severity is determined by reader impact, not by word count.
- A written disposition is part of the evidence record.
Key takeaways
- Triage claims by impact and uncertainty.
- Ask the source owner a narrow question.
- Preserve unresolved issues in the exception log.
Escalation path
Use the content QA severity matrix to route factual, methodological, access, and presentation issues.
| Severity | Response |
|---|---|
| Critical | Stop and obtain evidence |
| High | Reviewer decision before release |
| Medium | Correct and recheck |
| Low | Log for next pass |
Methodology and limitations
This path uses public research, statistics, quality, security, privacy, and accessibility principles. It is not a substitute for legal or regulated-industry review.
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FAQs
What counts as central?
A claim is central when removing or changing it alters the article's main answer or recommendation.
Can an editor waive a check?
Only with a documented reason, owner, and follow-up date.
Sources
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