At AQ Media, we believe that trustworthy content starts with rigorous methodology. This page outlines our approach to research, content development, and quality assurance—demonstrating our commitment to providing reliable, evidence-based guidance for modern living.
Research Standards
Our content is built on a foundation of thorough research and critical evaluation of sources. We adhere to these core research principles:
Source Evaluation Criteria
We carefully assess all sources using these key metrics:
- Authority: Credentials, expertise, and recognition in the relevant field
- Currency: Publication date and relevance to current understanding
- Accuracy: Factual correctness and alignment with scientific consensus
- Objectivity: Balance in perspective and transparency about limitations
- Scope: Depth of coverage and relevance to our readers' needs
Preferred Source Types
While we evaluate each source individually, we generally prioritize:
- Peer-reviewed academic journals and research studies
- Publications from recognized professional organizations and institutions
- Books and works by credentialed experts in relevant fields
- Government resources and datasets from reputable agencies
- Primary sources over secondary interpretations when possible
YMYL Topic Special Consideration
For Your Money, Your Life topics (mental health, financial advice, etc.), we apply heightened scrutiny and rely exclusively on authoritative sources with established credibility in these sensitive areas.
Content Development Process
Our content creation follows a structured process designed to ensure accuracy, usefulness, and clarity:
- Topic Selection & Research Brief
- Identification of reader needs through search intent and question analysis
- Development of comprehensive brief with key questions to address
- Preliminary source gathering and evaluation
- In-Depth Research
- Thorough exploration of authoritative sources
- Critical comparison of perspectives and approaches
- Identification of evidence gaps and limitations
- Consultation with subject matter experts when necessary
- Content Creation
- Development of comprehensive, structured content
- Integration of evidence-based insights with practical applications
- Creation of supporting visuals, tools, and resources
- Implementation of appropriate evidence citations
- Expert Review Process
- Initial editorial review for clarity, structure, and completeness
- Fact-checking against primary sources
- Subject matter expert review for YMYL topics
- Evaluation of practical usefulness and actionability
- Publication & Monitoring
- Final editorial approval and quality assurance
- Ongoing performance and feedback monitoring
- Scheduled review and update planning
Updates & Corrections Policy
We recognize that information evolves and improves over time. Our commitment to accuracy extends beyond initial publication:
Scheduled Content Reviews
- Regular Updates: All content undergoes scheduled reviews based on topic volatility
- Prioritization System: YMYL and rapidly-evolving topics receive more frequent reviews
- Update Logging: All significant content changes are documented with visible timestamps
Correction Policy
If we discover or are notified about inaccuracies in our content:
- We promptly verify the correct information
- We update the content as quickly as possible
- We add a correction notice when the change is substantial
- We review related content that might contain similar inaccuracies
Reader Feedback
We actively encourage readers to submit correction requests or updates:
- Direct feedback options on every page
- Dedicated correction request form on our Contact Us page
- All submissions are reviewed by our editorial team
References & Citations
Proper attribution is both an ethical obligation and a demonstration of our research rigor:
Citation Practice
- We use in-text citations to support specific claims, statistics, and direct quotations
- Each article includes a references section with complete source information
- We follow a consistent citation format based on academic standards
- Primary source links are provided whenever possible
Why Citations Matter
Citations serve multiple critical functions:
- They allow readers to verify information independently
- They acknowledge the work of researchers and experts
- They demonstrate the evidence basis for our recommendations
- They provide pathways for readers seeking deeper understanding
Content Types & Depth Indicators
We recognize that readers have different needs, experience levels, and time constraints. Our content is structured to meet you where you are:
Depth Classification System
Introductory (Intro)
- Purpose: Foundational understanding for beginners
- Features: Clear explanations of basic concepts, simplified frameworks, first steps
- Best For: Readers new to a topic or seeking fundamental understanding
- Indicator: Content titled with terms like "Basics," "Fundamentals," "Getting Started"
Application (Apply)
- Purpose: Practical implementation and problem-solving
- Features: Step-by-step guides, templates, troubleshooting advice
- Best For: Readers ready to implement concepts or solve specific challenges
- Indicator: Content titled with terms like "Guide," "Implementation," "System"
Mastery (Master)
- Purpose: Advanced optimization and integration
- Features: Nuanced strategies, system refinement, cross-domain integration
- Best For: Experienced practitioners seeking to perfect their approach
- Indicator: Content titled with terms like "Advanced," "Optimization," "Integration"
Content Format Types
Beyond depth levels, we offer various content formats to serve different learning needs:
- Pillar Content: Comprehensive, authoritative resources on core topics
- Quick Guides: Concentrated, actionable advice for specific situations
- Tool Reviews: Objective evaluations of resources and products
- Case Studies: Real-world examples demonstrating principles in action
- Templates & Worksheets: Practical tools for immediate application
Our methodology continues to evolve as we learn and grow. We welcome your feedback on how we can better serve your informational needs while maintaining the highest standards of accuracy and usefulness. Please visit our Contact Us page to share your thoughts.
See our Editorial Standards for more on how we apply these principles.
