Faktiliste

Faktiliste is a term used in Norwegian and other Scandinavian contexts to describe a concise compilation of factual statements about a topic. It functions as a quick reference that presents verified pieces of information in a clear, non-interpretive form. In practice, a faktiliste is intended to be objective and easily scannable, allowing readers to grasp the essential facts without engaging in extended narrative.

Contents typically consist of individually numbered items, each containing a single fact, a figure, a definition, or a date. Items are written in neutral language and are often accompanied by a source or citation. A faktiliste emphasizes verifiability and avoids unsupported conclusions or argumentative commentary. It may be revised as new information becomes available to maintain accuracy.

Common uses include journalism as a supplement to longer articles, education as a study aid, or research briefs to summarize key data points. It can serve as a foundation for further analysis, helping readers distinguish established facts from interpretations. Limitations include the risk of oversimplification or outdated information if not regularly updated.

Origin and usage: The term faktiliste derives from fakt and liste in Norwegian and other Scandinavian languages, reflecting a pragmatic approach to information presentation. The concept appears in journalism, education, and research in various forms, sometimes under other names such as fact sheet or summary list. It is not universally standardized and its exact scope can vary by country, institution, or discipline.

Related concepts include fact sheet, data table, summary, and fact-checking.