deHype terminology
Evidence trail
The sequence of sources and evidence used to assess a claim.
What it means
Definition
Evidence trail: The evidence trail helps readers see how a conclusion was reached and whether the public claim is anchored to strong evidence.
What it can tell you
It can help explain why a report is cautious even when the underlying study is real.
What it cannot tell you
It cannot replace reading the source evidence, methods and limitations.
Headline trap
Why this matters in headlines
A clear evidence trail links the headline, article, press release, and study.