Editorial Guidelines

Our Editorial Mission

The Story Ledger is committed to delivering journalism that meets the highest standards of accuracy, fairness, and integrity. These editorial guidelines outline the principles and practices that govern our reporting, writing, editing, and publishing processes.

Our mission is to chronicle the narratives that shape our world with depth, nuance, and intellectual honesty. Every story we publish is created with our readers' trust and the public interest in mind.

Core Editorial Principles

Accuracy

Accuracy is the foundation of all our journalism. We are committed to getting the facts right and correcting errors promptly and transparently when they occur.

• All factual claims must be verified through multiple credible sources
• Statistics and data must be current, accurate, and properly attributed
• We verify information independently rather than relying on secondary sources
• When we make errors, we correct them promptly with clear notation
• Complex topics are reviewed by subject matter experts before publication

Independence

Our editorial content is independent of commercial, political, or other external influences.

• Editorial decisions are made solely in the public interest
• Advertisers cannot influence editorial content or coverage decisions
• We maintain clear separation between editorial and business operations
• We decline assignments that would compromise our independence
• Financial relationships that could create conflicts are disclosed

Fairness

We strive to present all significant viewpoints fairly and in proper context.

• We seek diverse perspectives on complex issues
• Subjects of criticism are given opportunity to respond
• We distinguish clearly between news reporting, analysis, and opinion
• We avoid language that could imply bias or prejudgment
• Controversial topics are covered with balance and nuance

Transparency

We are transparent about our methods, sources, and potential conflicts of interest.

• We clearly identify authors and their relevant expertise
• We cite sources and link to original research when possible
• We explain our methodology for investigations and analysis
• We clearly label sponsored content and distinguish it from editorial
• We disclose any relationships that might affect objectivity

Sourcing Standards

The credibility of our journalism depends on the quality of our sources.

Primary Sources

• We prioritize original documents, direct observation, and first-hand accounts
• We seek on-the-record statements whenever possible
• Anonymous sources are used only when necessary and with editor approval
• We verify the credibility and motives of confidential sources

Expert Sources

• Experts must have relevant credentials and experience
• We seek sources without financial conflicts when possible
• We disclose relevant affiliations and potential biases
• We present a range of expert opinion on controversial matters

Research and Data

• We cite peer-reviewed research when available
• We evaluate the methodology and limitations of studies
• We avoid cherry-picking data to support predetermined conclusions
• Statistical claims are reviewed for accuracy and context

Editorial Process

Content Development

• Story ideas are evaluated based on public interest and newsworthiness
• Reporters conduct thorough research before beginning to write
• Complex or sensitive stories require multiple rounds of review
• Legal review is conducted when warranted

Fact-Checking

• All factual claims are verified before publication
• Editors review sourcing and attribution
• Quotes are checked for accuracy
• Names, titles, dates, and numbers are verified

Editing

• All content undergoes multiple levels of editorial review
• Editors ensure clarity, accuracy, and appropriate tone
• Headlines and summaries accurately reflect story content
• Final approval rests with senior editorial staff

Corrections and Accountability

We take errors seriously and correct them promptly and transparently.

Correction Policy

• Errors are corrected as soon as they are discovered
• Corrections are noted clearly in the article
• Significant errors warrant editor's notes explaining the correction
• We maintain records of all corrections

Reader Feedback

• We welcome and review reader corrections and concerns
• Complaints are investigated promptly
• We explain our editorial decisions when questioned
• Contact information for editorial staff is readily available

Conflicts of Interest

We avoid conflicts of interest and disclose unavoidable ones.

• Staff members cannot accept gifts or payments that could influence coverage
• Financial investments that could create conflicts are prohibited
• Personal relationships relevant to coverage must be disclosed
• Outside activities that could compromise independence require approval
• Staff members recuse themselves when conflicts arise

Contact Information

For questions about our editorial standards or to report concerns:

Email: contact@thestoryledger.site

Phone: 212-938-9237

Last Updated: February 2026