Do you have a specific method for research and citation? Like say someone presents something as fact, how do you go about researching to ascertain the validity of their statement? Is it a specific method or just years of fact checking stuff?

Also, when you wish to present facts to support claims, how do you do this? I read a lot of stuff, but rarely remember where or when. As such, I generally can't be bothered with citing sources for any facts or "things I make up" (tm). Again, is there a specific method you use here, or just a feeling of what stuff needs to be supported and what stuff can stand on it's own?

No, I'm not planning on trying to use this stuff to refute CF related stuff (I don't have the information). What I am *thinking* of doing is trying to put together a political and social newsletter for my family/friends to educate them on what is actually going on in the world. If I can't cite reliable sources, and "prove" to them that something is the way I say it is, then I'd be much less likely to be able to prove to them that say, the viewpoint of current economic experts is that illegal immigration is a non-factor in the state of the economy.... or at least comparatively.

Any way, just looking for some best practices sort of info if you have any handing, or better if you have a specific methodology that you would be willing to share, that would be even better.

Thanks in advance,

Tac

p.s. It's here because I think others might benefit from anything you'd be willing to share.