# Pre-Publish Quality Control Checklist

Use this checklist before publishing any original InDepthNH story.

---

## Sourcing and attribution

- [ ] Every fact attributed to a named source, document, or official record.
- [ ] Every quote verified against notes/recording.
- [ ] Anonymous sources explained with reason for anonymity; approved by Nancy if sensitive.
- [ ] Opposing side or subject of criticism given a chance to respond; no-response noted if declined.
- [ ] No unnamed “sources said” without editor approval.

## Legal and fairness

- [ ] No defamatory language; allegations clearly attributed.
- [ ] No invasion of privacy; identify minors only when legally/publicly relevant.
- [ ] No copyright violations; photos/charts have proper credit or are original.
- [ ] No conflicts of interest disclosed or avoided.
- [ ] Right-to-Know/FOIA requests cited when records are used.

## Accuracy and context

- [ ] Names, titles, dates, dollar amounts, and place names double-checked.
- [ ] Legal/statutory references verified (RSA numbers, bill numbers, court citations).
- [ ] Acronyms spelled out on first use.
- [ ] Links tested and preserved exactly (do not translate URLs).
- [ ] Context provided: why this matters, who is affected, what happens next.

## Style and formatting

- [ ] Headline accurate, specific, and no longer than needed.
- [ ] Lede answers who, what, when, where, why.
- [ ] Byline correct; contributor/columnist role clear.
- [ ] Category and tags appropriate (avoid Business & Economy for politics stories).
- [ ] Photo caption, credit, and alt text included if image used.
- [ ] AP style followed unless InDepthNH has a house exception.

## Web and SEO

- [ ] Featured image set (1200×630 preferred for social).
- [ ] Excerpt/meta description written.
- [ ] Tags specific and consistent with past stories.
- [ ] Internal links to related InDepthNH stories added where relevant.
- [ ] Donation/ newsletter call-to-action included if appropriate.

## Final read

- [ ] Read story aloud or have second person read it.
- [ ] Spell-check and grammar-check.
- [ ] Headline and lede written for mobile/social sharing.
- [ ] Nancy sign-off on sensitive or investigative pieces.

---

*Last updated: 2026-08-13*