Research and sources
Compare sources that appear to disagree
Two sources can seem to conflict while measuring different things. Line up their definitions, time periods, populations and methods first. Some disagreements disappear once these match, and some stay. When one stays, say so plainly instead of averaging the claims.
A text to start with
Source A says [claim A] and source B says [claim B] about [topic]. Here are the relevant passages: [excerpts and locations]. Compare how each defines its terms, the population and time period covered, and the method used. List possible explanations for the difference, and say which ones the text actually supports.
Example request. Change the details to fit your situation.Conflict comparison sheet
Topic: [ ] Claim A: [ ] Source and location: [ ] Claim B: [ ] Source and location: [ ] Definition of key term in A: [ ] Definition of key term in B: [ ] Population in A / in B: [ ] Time period in A / in B: [ ] Method in A / in B: [ ] Units and denominators: [ ] Possible explanation: [ ] Supported by which passage: [ ] Check to confirm: [ ] Status (resolved / partly / unresolved): [ ]
Agreement that is forced
Check that each explanation is supported by the passages and was not invented to make the sources fit. A difference in dates matters only if the subject changed over that span. A shared word such as "users" or "rate" may be defined differently in each source. Confirm that the numbers use the same units and denominators. If the passages do not explain the gap, the honest result is "unresolved." Watch for a summary that says the sources "broadly agree" while leaving out the figure that differs.
Ask another agent to check the result
Do not force agreement between these sources. Show where my proposed explanation goes beyond what the passages state, and where definitions, units or periods differ. If the evidence stays incompatible, say so and list what I would need to settle it.
Decide what to report
For each explanation, name the check that would confirm it, such as the full methods section or a correction notice. Run the cheapest checks first. If the conflict remains, report both claims with their definitions and dates, and say which one you weight more heavily and why. Note who could settle it, such as the authors.