Editorial policy

Thoughtful Directory aims to give readers clear, useful writing about the choices and habits around reading. We distinguish general suggestions from factual claims, and we make the basis and limits of our work visible.

Accuracy and clarity

We check factual statements against suitable sources before publication and review details that could have changed. Articles should explain their subject in plain English, avoid overstating what a suggestion can do, and make uncertainty clear. We do not invent evidence, quotations, experience or expertise. If an article relies on interpretation, it should read as interpretation rather than settled fact.

Independence and labels

Editorial choices belong to the editorial process, not to a partner. Payment, gifts or another material connection will not buy a favourable editorial conclusion. Any sponsored or partner material will be clearly labelled so readers can tell it apart from independent editorial content. A link or mention is not an endorsement.

Corrections

If you spot a factual error or unclear passage, send the article title, the relevant wording and a note about the issue through the Contact page. We will review the report and correct confirmed errors. Where a change materially affects an article, we will make the correction clear in the article rather than quietly leave readers with a misleading impression.

Illustrations

Some illustrations may be generated with artificial intelligence. We treat illustrations as visual material, not as evidence, and aim to avoid images that could mislead readers about real books, people or events. Where an illustration could be mistaken for a documentary image, we will identify it accordingly.