Define the format and scope
Begin each article by identifying the reader’s decision and the type of content being prepared. Use review for a piece that explains direct product experience; use buying guide or research article when the work is based on category analysis and sources. State material limitations. These guidelines describe how content should be prepared; their presence does not establish that every existing article has already been reviewed against them.
Keep an evidence record
For factual claims, retain the source, exact model and date checked. Distinguish manufacturer documentation from independent observations and your own measurements. If a measurement is reported, describe a procedure that supports interpreting it. Never imply that a source was inspected, a product was used or a test was completed when it was not. Mark missing information as unknown and remove claims that cannot be supported at the required level.
Explain methods and trade-offs
Describe the use conditions relevant to conclusions. Connect each judgment to a reader need and explain the limitations that could change that judgment. Avoid universal best claims without a defined comparison set and method. Do not add ratings merely for visual appeal. If a scoring system is used, explain the scale, criteria and how the evidence leads to the result. A clear limitation is more helpful than an unsupported certainty.
Separate editorial and commercial information
Identify sponsorships, affiliate links, samples and other relevant relationships where the reader needs that context. Label manufacturer presentations and paid placements clearly. Do not imply that a commercial link itself proves a recommendation or that a commission guarantees a price advantage. Ensure that the destination matches the description and that the article’s claims do not depend on the promotional wording supplied by a seller.
Use images and video responsibly
Describe illustrative imagery accurately. A staged or generated category image must not be presented as documentary evidence of a test. Use product photographs and video only through appropriate rights or supported original-source links and embeds. Attribute third-party material and distinguish promotional video from independent reporting. Check whether a video is still available and whether the surrounding description matches the actual source rather than assuming an old embed remains unchanged.
Review, correct and maintain
Before publication, check names, links, model details, factual claims, headings, image descriptions and the distinction between current information and general advice. After publication, provide a way to report a correction. When a material factual error is confirmed, correct the text and explain the change where needed for reader understanding. Do not invent a tested-on date, named reviewer or update date to create an appearance of verification. Use the actual publication workflow and preserve a record of substantive changes.
Keep this checklist
- Identify the exact question and the evidence needed to answer it.
- Separate observed facts, source claims and editorial interpretation.
- Keep uncertainties and commercial relationships visible.
- Confirm current details before acting on a product-specific claim.