# Compare conflicting sources without hiding the disagreement

When sources disagree, first check whether they measure the same thing. Different dates, definitions, populations, and methods can produce different results without either source being wrong. Keep the disagreement visible until you can explain it.

## Put the claims on the same basis
Copy each claim exactly into a table. Record its date, unit, population, and method. For prices, include the plan and billing period. For research, distinguish a mean from a median and an observed association from a causal conclusion. Do not average numbers merely because they share a topic.

## A fictional price comparison
Source A lists a plan at $20 per month billed annually. Source B lists $25 on monthly billing. The apparent contradiction may be billing terms, not a price change. If neither page supplies the billing basis, the comparison remains unresolved.

| Field | Source A | Source B |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Amount | $20 | $25 |
| Unit | Per month | Per month |
| Billing | Annual commitment | Monthly |
| Review date | Same date | Same date |

The total annual cash commitment and cancellation terms still need checking before a choice.

## Ask AI to diagnose differences
```text
Compare these two source claims.
Record wording, date, definition, unit, population, and method.
Identify differences that could explain the apparent conflict.
Do not average incompatible figures or choose a winner without evidence.
State what remains unresolved and draft a question for the source owner.
Source A: [excerpt and location]
Source B: [excerpt and location]
Decision affected: [context]
```

## Write the conclusion at the supported level
A useful conclusion might be “The quoted prices use different billing terms,” or “The sources disagree and neither explains the method.” Avoid claiming that one is outdated unless you can establish its date or replacement.

If the disagreement affects a high-consequence decision, seek the current responsible authority or an appropriate adviser. In ordinary research, retain both sources in the ledger and explain why you used one for a particular claim. Readers should be able to reconstruct the choice rather than seeing only the number you preferred.

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SkillStall · 2026-10-02