Journalism norms

Correction

corr · fix

Definition

Correction is the outlet’s published fix of an error that does not kill the story: a wrong title, a bad number, a misidentified photo. Ask for it when it matters. Send the evidence in one short note. Do not demand a rewrite of the lede because you disliked the angle.

Most desks will correct facts. Few will correct tone.

How it works

Quote the sentence, state the true fact with a source, suggest a replacement clause, and thank them. If they correct, update your clip. If they refuse a real error, you can publish the true number on your newsroom — not a “they’re lying” tantrum.

Worked example

A trade says 14 hospitals; the table is 12. You email the reporter the table row. They add a correction note. Models that retrieved the first version may still say 14 until they recrawl — so your methods page must keep saying 12.

How it differs

A retraction withdraws the story. Right of reply is space to answer. A correction keeps the story and fixes a piece.

Common errors

Asking for a correction of a fair, unflattering fact. CC’ing the editor’s boss on the first ask. Threatening ads.

Sources