The SMELL Test
(McManus, 2012, pp. 7-10)
S - Source. First consider the source of the information. Think about: the reporter, the person being interviewed and the news organization. Keep an eye out for any possible conflicts of interest.
M- Motivation. Ask: Why is this story being told? Is it merely informational, or perhaps an effort to sell us something?
E - Evidence. Search for the truth value of the claims made in the story. Find how you know what you know.
L - Logic. The logic connects the evidence to the motive in a story. Ask yourself if the information given makes sense.
L - Left out or missing. Was the missing information left out due to ignorance or intention. Often times, information is completely overlooked.
