Media coverage can support Wikipedia research when it is reliable for the claim and, where required, independent and substantial. A recognizable publication name or a large number of links does not automatically establish notability or make every statement suitable for inclusion.
01
Identify how the coverage was produced
Read the byline, sponsorship labels and publication context. Distinguish independent reporting from an advertisement, press release distribution or material written by the subject. Interviews can contain useful statements but may not provide the same independent analysis as reporting. For a hypothetical company profile, establish whether the journalist exercised editorial judgment or the company purchased and supplied the entire narrative.
02
Evaluate depth and relevance
Find the passages that discuss the actual subject rather than an industry, famous customer or unrelated parent company. A brief mention in a list may support a narrow fact without demonstrating substantial coverage. Check whether multiple articles independently report on the subject or simply repeat one release. Match each proposed claim to evidence and avoid stretching a favorable phrase into a broader conclusion.
- Record author, publication, date, sponsorship status and the relevant passages.
- Separate independent analysis from statements attributed directly to the subject.
- Check applicable Wikipedia guidance for the topic and language edition.
03
Keep media work separate from manufactured eligibility
Pursue public communication because there is a genuine story and audience need, not as a promise to purchase an encyclopedia article. Paid placements should be disclosed and cannot be quietly relabeled independent evidence. If you represent the subject in Wikipedia discussions, disclose that relationship and follow paid-contribution rules where applicable. Editors evaluate evidence under policy, and no media package guarantees article acceptance or retention.
Frequently asked questions
Does national coverage always outweigh local reporting?
No simple geographic hierarchy settles reliability. Relevant, substantial local reporting may be more useful than a passing mention in a nationally known outlet.
Can a press release support anything?
It may support limited straightforward facts within policy constraints, but it is controlled by the issuing party and generally does not establish independent notability by itself.
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