What does cars stand for?

Okay, so what does CARS stand for? Well, the CARS I’m thinking of, the one I always try to remember when I’m online, is actually a checklist. I think it’s so important, especially with all the crazy stuff you see floating around the internet these days.

See, I learned about this CARS checklist a while back – it’s all about Credibility, Accuracy, Reasonableness, and Support. I mean, right? Doesn’t that just make sense?

Honestly, it’s like, I get so frustrated with misleading websites. You know, the ones that just scream “FAKE NEWS!” at you? And honestly, knowing I can kind of run a check using these four things gives me a little more confidence.

Like, is the author or website actually credible? Do they know what they’re talking about? And is the information presented accurate and, like, actually reasonable? Does it sound like something a normal person would say, or is it just way out there? And finally, is it supported by any kind of evidence? Can they back up what they’re saying?

It’s almost like having a detective’s toolkit for the internet! I actually used it the other day when my aunt shared some wild conspiracy theory on Facebook (you know how it is!). I just went through the CARS checklist, and immediately I was like, “Nope, not credible, not supported… definitely not sharing this!” It really does help you navigate all the noise out there. It’s a simple checklist, but it can save you from spreading misinformation, you know? And that’s a pretty big deal these days, wouldn’t you say?