Published September 11, 2026 · Updated October 1, 2026
Find the original source and timestamp
Ask who published the information, when it was released, and whether a headline is summarizing an official report, an analyst opinion, or an older quote. For an economic release, open the issuing agency's own document when possible; the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics release index is one example of a primary source.
Separate facts from interpretation
Write one sentence about what the source actually reported. Then write a second sentence beginning “One possible interpretation is…”. Keeping those sentences separate makes it easier to notice when a commentator's conclusion goes beyond the underlying information.
Check what the headline leaves out
Look for the reference period, comparison base, revisions, and other scheduled events. A market may have formed expectations before a release, and its reaction can differ from a simple “good news means price up” story. Avoid treating a chart move after publication as proof of one cause.
Use an impact label only to prioritize reading
Categories such as “high impact” can help decide which event to study first. They are not reliability ratings, certainty scores, or trade signals. Keep your note neutral even when a headline sounds urgent.
Finish with a source-check note
Record the source URL, publication time and time zone, the fact reported, one uncertainty, and a question for later review. Then leave any personal money decision outside this educational exercise. See the calendar guide for scheduled-event fields.
Practice with an example
Worked example: separate fact from a market story
Imagine a headline says an economic measure rose. Before adding it to your notes, open the original release. Record the publishing agency, release time and time zone, reference period, unit, and whether earlier figures were revised.
- Fact you can check
- “The release reports a change for a particular period and measurement.”
- Interpretation to label
- “A commentator thinks this could affect expectations.” That is an explanation to evaluate, not the reported statistic itself.
- Unsupported leap to avoid
- “Therefore this instrument must rise next.” A headline does not establish a certain market outcome.
Keep the original link next to your note so you can revisit it when a revised release appears. Use the calendar guide to check timing and reference periods.