All the News That’s Fit to Publish
Answers · Media literacy for authors
How can authors judge whether a publishing news source is credible?
Check six things: does it confirm facts at primary sources, link what it cites, date and log its corrections, keep ads labeled and separate, refuse payment for coverage, and say how it uses AI? A credible source publishes its rules on each.
1. It confirms facts where they originate
Look for reporting checked against a platform's own help pages and announcements, company filings, court records, official prize and organization sites, and published data. A press release is a claim from an interested party; a tip is a lead, not a fact. The Publishing Times' rules: Sourcing and verification.
2. It links to what it cites
You should be able to click through to the original. At The Publishing Times every aggregated item shows the original source name and links to the full article (Attribution and linking).
3. It dates and logs corrections
Every article should show its publication date, and factual corrections should be noted on the article and listed publicly. See the corrections log and Accuracy, updates and corrections.
4. It keeps ads, sponsorships and affiliate links separate
Sponsored content should be labeled, affiliate links disclosed, and advertisers kept away from stories before publication. See News kept separate from ads and the Affiliate Disclosure.
5. It does not sell coverage
No payment, gifts or favors in exchange for coverage, reviews or rankings, and disclosure of any ownership ties. See Conflicts of interest and disclosure.
6. It says how it uses AI
A source should say whether software drafts or summarizes its copy and who is accountable for it. See How we use AI in reporting and production.
Quick answers
Where are The Publishing Times' standards published?
On one page: Editorial Standards & Code of Ethics.
How do I report an error?
Use the form on the Corrections page with the article link, what is wrong and the correct information.