The truth is slipping away, and without these skills, you’ll never know what to believe.
You’re being lied to every single day, and most of the time, you don’t even realize it. With misinformation flooding social media and conspiracy theories disguised as facts, it’s getting harder to know what’s real.
But don’t worry—there are simple ways to sharpen your BS detector and uncover the truth. Here are 11 skills you need to survive.
1. Always question where the information is coming from.
Not all sources are created equal. If you’re relying on random social media posts or a friend of a friend’s opinion, you’re setting yourself up for failure. Check the credibility of the source. Is it a well-known publication or an expert in the field? If not, dig deeper before trusting what you’ve read.
2. Don’t let shocking headlines suck you in.
Clickbait titles are designed to grab your attention and play on your emotions. If something seems outrageous or too good (or bad) to be true, there’s a good chance it is. Read beyond the headline, and see if the rest of the content holds up under scrutiny. Headlines can be deceiving!
3. Cross-check everything with multiple sources.
Never stop at just one source, no matter how legit it seems. Look for the same information from other reliable outlets. If you can’t find it anywhere else, it’s probably not true. Consistency across trusted sources is a strong indicator of accuracy.
4. Watch out for emotionally charged language.
If an article or post is loaded with dramatic words meant to make you angry, scared, or outraged, it’s likely trying to manipulate you. Legitimate information doesn’t need to rely on emotional bait. Take a breath and evaluate the facts without getting swept up in the tone.
5. Verify the dates on the information you’re consuming.
Old information often resurfaces and gets passed around as if it’s current. Check the publication date or the timeline of events mentioned. Context matters, and outdated facts can easily lead you to the wrong conclusions.
6. Look for supporting evidence in the content.
A real fact should be backed by data, research, or credible testimony. If an article just makes claims without citing sources or providing evidence, it’s a red flag. Ask yourself, “How do they know this?” before accepting it as the truth.
7. Be wary of content that oversimplifies complex issues.
The truth is often messy, and complex topics rarely have simple answers. If someone is claiming to have “the one solution” or a clear-cut explanation, they’re likely leaving out important details—or they don’t know what they’re talking about.
8. Recognize your own biases and how they influence you.
It’s easy to believe something because it aligns with what you already think or feel. But confirmation bias can cloud your judgment. Be open to information that challenges your views, even if it’s uncomfortable. It’s the only way to grow your understanding.
9. Learn to spot fake images and videos.
Technology makes it easy to alter photos and videos to create fake “proof.” Use tools to reverse search images or look for inconsistencies. For videos, pay attention to unnatural movements or mismatched audio. Visual content can be powerful—and deceiving.
10. Don’t trust anonymous sources or vague attributions.
If the source of information is “a close insider” or “someone familiar with the situation,” take it with a grain of salt. Reliable journalism relies on named and verifiable sources. If the source is hidden, the information might be as well.
11. Take a break from social media when it gets overwhelming.
Sometimes the constant flood of information can be too much to handle. Step away from the noise and give yourself space to think critically. A clear head is your best defense against misinformation and conspiracy theories.