Decision tool
AI Output Verification Ladder
Choose a level of checking that matches the claim, uncertainty, and consequence of the work.
Core concept
CurrentNext review due 2026-10-21Content version 0.30.0
- Format
- Decision Path
- Level
- Beginner
- Audience
- Learner, Practitioner, Developer
- Owner
- Project42 Editorial
- Review cadence
- Every 90 days
- Prerequisites
- None
01
Match the check to the consequence
Low consequence: read for usefulness, internal consistency, and obvious mistakes.
Moderate consequence: compare against the supplied source, run examples or tests, and inspect edge cases.
High consequence: use current authoritative sources, independent review, domain expertise, and direct evidence from the real system.
02
Ask what the evidence actually proves
A citation proves only what its source supports. A passing unit test proves only the behavior covered by that test. A successful deployment proves only that deployment completed.
Before accepting a broad claim, list its smaller claims and attach the nearest practical evidence to each one.