What do we mean when we say that an article is a 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5?

This page includes explanations of each of our scores and examples of articles that show what we mean. Check them out and also test some of your own examples below.

Articles that score 5

Deepnews measures only the text of an article actually contains, and looks for original reporting, authoritative sourcing, and exploration of multiple ideas. It does not look at the author or outlet, meaning that we give a diverse range of pieces out highest score.

On the ground reporting

Good sourcing!

Outlet doesn’t matter

Articles that score 4

Articles that score 4 show many of the same qualities as 5s, however they may be slightly less in depth, choosing to explore one angle rather than many. 

Well done features

A little more depth than normal

Articles that score 3

There is nothing wrong with articles that score a 3, though they generally provide less information than the 4s and 5s. Many news articles receive this score.

Event write ups

Covering an announcement

Articles that score 2

There are also many articles that fit into the 2 category. They may provide worthwhile coverage or analysis of a topic, but don’t really dig in-depth

Limited information

Little analysis

Articles that score 1

Articles that are short, contain little news, or little original reporting may receive a 1.

Just a quick blurb

Little original reporting