WorldLensia sources and methodology are designed to make public-data explainers checkable. We prioritize original data releases, documentation and methods from the agency or organization responsible for the figures. This page describes our general approach; each article should be checked for its own cited sources, dates and definitions.
How we select sources
When available, we use primary sources such as government statistical releases, official datasets, technical documentation and published regulations. Examples include the U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Bureau of Economic Analysis, Federal Reserve data and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Secondary reporting can provide context, but it does not replace an original source for a number that can be verified there.
What we document
We identify the measure, unit, geography and time period when they affect interpretation. For time-sensitive datasets, we note the release or data vintage when available because estimates can be revised. If sources use different definitions or population boundaries, we explain the difference rather than treating the figures as directly interchangeable.
Calculations and comparisons
When an article derives a value from published data, we label it as a calculation and show the inputs or formula when practical. Rankings and averages are interpreted within their stated coverage. A correlation, difference or trend does not by itself establish cause, forecast a future outcome, or describe every person or place represented in the data.
Limits and corrections
Public datasets can contain sampling error, reporting delays, revisions, missing values or changes in methodology. We describe material limitations in the relevant article and avoid presenting uncertain estimates as exact counts. If you find a factual error or a broken source, please tell us through the Contact WorldLensia page. We review reports and correct or clarify material errors when warranted.
Check each article
This overview is not a substitute for article-level documentation. Follow the source links in each story to verify the original figures and read the issuing organization’s definitions. Learn more about our research approach.
To see these checks in practice, use the AI Research Workflow: A 7-Step Source Verification Checklist and Build an AI Citation Audit: A Source Ledger That Catches Gaps.