Our Commitment
We correct the record.
Beyond the Sentence distinguishes between corrections, clarifications, updates, and ordinary editing.
A correction is appropriate when published reporting contains a material factual error. Significant corrections should be disclosed to readers rather than silently removed.
Minor spelling, grammar, formatting, or style changes that do not alter the meaning of a story may be corrected without a formal correction notice.
Material corrections
When an error affects a central fact, allegation, quotation, identity, date, location, legal status, institutional response, or other significant element of a story, we will generally add a visible correction or update notice explaining what changed.
Clarifications
A clarification may be added when reporting is technically accurate but could reasonably be misunderstood or when additional context materially improves the reader's understanding.
Developing stories
Some stories continue to develop after publication. New facts, official responses, court decisions, records, or other relevant information may be added as updates. An update does not necessarily mean the original reporting was incorrect.
Requests for correction
Anyone who believes Beyond the Sentence has published a factual error may request a correction.
Requests should identify the specific statement believed to be inaccurate and, when possible, include records or other evidence supporting the requested change.
A disagreement with analysis, opinion, interpretation, or editorial judgment does not by itself establish a factual error.
How correction requests are reviewed
Correction requests are reviewed against the reporting, underlying records, source material, available evidence, and any relevant response from the person or institution involved.
We may contact the requester for additional information. We may also seek independent verification before making a change.
If a correction is warranted, the published story may be revised and a visible correction notice added.
What we do not silently erase
When a significant factual correction changes the substance of previously published reporting, our goal is transparency. We do not want readers to see a materially changed story with no indication that a correction occurred.
Accountability applies to us.
Beyond the Sentence reports on accountability within powerful systems and institutions. That same standard requires us to be accountable for our own reporting.