Evidence literacy
Evidence before opinion.
By Anissa Feby CanintikaProfessional commentary
Credible judgment begins by knowing what the evidence can support—and where individual context must take over.Name the actual question
Useful evidence answers a specific question. Before looking for an answer, clarify the population, decision, outcome, and time horizon that matter.
Separate signal from certainty
A study can indicate direction without proving that the same result will occur for every person. Study design, sample size, comparators, and limitations shape how confidently a finding can be used.
Translate, do not simply repeat
Evidence becomes useful when it is translated into choices, trade-offs, and next steps that fit the situation—not when technical language is repeated without interpretation.
Keep a review loop
New information, changing circumstances, and real-world response can alter a decision. A considered process records the assumption and knows when to revisit it.