# Evaluating Source Credibility

Source credibility can be evaluated in two ways: **media reliability** and **factual accuracy**.

Two tools that make this easier are the [Ad Fontes Media Bias Chart](https://app.adfontesmedia.com/chart/interactive) and [Media Bias/Fact Check (MBFC)](https://mediabiasfactcheck.com/).

### Ad Fontes

**Media reliability** means how dependable a news source is when reporting facts. Reliable sources focus on clear, accurate information rather than opinion or unsupported claims.

The [Ad Fontes Media Bias Chart](https://app.adfontesmedia.com/chart/interactive) shows both **reliability** and **political bias**.

* Sources near the **top** report facts carefully and use solid evidence.
* Sources near the **bottom** rely more on opinions or weaker information.
* Sources in the **center** are usually balanced, while those far to the **left** or **right** show stronger political leanings.

The most **trustworthy sources** are found near the **top and center** of the chart. They combine accurate reporting with little to no bias.

*Examples:* USAFacts, Pew Research Center, Reuters, and the Associated Press 

<figure><img src="/files/uU6WnHG3ge7DiVhyCEBl" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

{% hint style="info" %}
Reliability and bias are different. A news outlet can lean left or right and still report facts accurately. But strongly biased sources often focus more on opinions and less on facts.
{% endhint %}

### MBFC

**Factual accuracy** means how truthful and careful a source is when sharing information. Reliable sources clearly separate facts from opinions and use trustworthy evidence.&#x20;

You can check how accurate a source is by using [Media Bias/Fact Check (MBFC)](https://mediabiasfactcheck.com/). MBFC rates thousands of outlets and explains their **bias**, **accuracy**, and **transparency**.

<figure><img src="https://2293932773-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FRo4CxwI5b8WUYUwYnbDu%2Fuploads%2FaVBdn9ZViWM170csjcPE%2Fimage.png?alt=media&#x26;token=b4f85bde-1fc4-4d96-a291-b1cc354f715f" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

For example, AP News is rated least biased and very high in factual reporting. To check a source, go to <https://mediabiasfactcheck.com> and search for its name. Each profile explains why the source got that rating and gives examples of reliable or unreliable reporting.&#x20;

<figure><img src="/files/mTdPalwsYntsExmPyidI" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### Using Ad Fontes and MBFC

When you're not sure about a source, check Ad Fontes to see if it’s high and centered on the chart. Then, use MBFC to confirm that it’s rated high or very high in factual accuracy.

Be cautious with sources that exaggerate stories, use emotional or misleading headlines, or leave out important facts. Always look for confirmation from multiple trusted outlets before accepting a claim as true.


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