Editorial Policy

What Happened IF publishes explainers that answer “what happens if…” questions about science, technology, health, the planet and world events. This page explains how we research, write, check and correct our articles.

Original writing

Every article is written for What Happened IF. We do not copy, spin or republish other publishers’ articles. When we rely on another organisation’s reporting or research, we summarise it in our own words and link to the original.

Sources and citations

We base our explainers on primary and reputable sources: peer-reviewed research, government and space agencies, international organisations, universities and established news outlets. Key facts and figures are linked to their source so readers can check them. Hypothetical scenarios are clearly labelled as such, and we separate what is known from what is speculation.

Fact-checking

Before publication, an editor checks names, dates, numbers and claims against the cited sources. We do not invent quotes or statistics. Where experts disagree or evidence is limited, we say so. Health-related articles are for general information only and are not medical advice.

Use of AI tools

We may use AI tools to help with research, outlining or first drafts. Any AI-assisted text is reviewed, fact-checked and edited by a human editor before it is published, and the editorial team is responsible for everything that appears on the site.

Corrections and updates

If we get something wrong, we fix it promptly. Significant corrections are noted at the end of the article. Articles about developing news are updated when new, reliable information becomes available. To report an error, please use our Contact page or email info@whathappenedif.com with the article link and the source for the correction.

Independence

Editorial decisions are made by the What Happened IF Editorial Team. Any sponsored or guest content will be clearly labelled.