Editorial Guidelines
This page outlines the editorial standards we use to create and maintain written content on Total Health Calculator. These guidelines focus on quality, clarity, and responsible communication.
1. Editorial Mission
Our editorial mission is to publish clear, accurate, user‑first health and nutrition content that helps readers understand common topics without exaggeration, fear, or hype. We aim to explain concepts in practical terms, support statements with reputable evidence, and communicate uncertainty transparently when it exists.
We focus on evidence‑informed guidance intended for general educational use. We avoid diagnosing conditions, prescribing treatment, or making promises about outcomes.
2. Content Standards
Topic selection
Topics are chosen based on reader needs and common questions. We prioritize content that helps users interpret nutrition concepts, understand healthy habits, and navigate typical goal‑setting topics (such as weight management, food choices, and exercise basics) in a responsible way.
Clarity, readability, and usefulness
Content should be written for a broad audience and designed to answer the reader’s question quickly, then provide supporting detail. We aim for plain language, clear definitions, and a structure that allows scanning.
- Clarity: explain terms before using them; avoid jargon when possible.
- Readability: use short paragraphs, helpful headings, and lists where appropriate.
- Usefulness: provide practical next steps and context, not just theory.
Structure, tone, and accessibility
Articles should follow a consistent structure with descriptive headings. The tone should be neutral, supportive, and respectful. We avoid shame‑based language and do not present health as a moral issue.
We aim to make content accessible by using readable formatting and straightforward sentences. When possible, we include summaries, examples, and clear cautions where readers could misinterpret information.
3. Research and Fact‑Checking
Reputable sources
Writers collect information from trusted, evidence‑based sources such as the NIH, CDC, WHO, PubMed, and peer‑reviewed academic journals. We also review consensus guidance where available.
Verification before publication
Claims in our content must be supported by evidence. Before publication, key statements are checked against reputable references. When the evidence is limited or mixed, we communicate that uncertainty rather than presenting speculation as fact.
Evidence requirements for claims
We avoid absolute language such as “guaranteed,” “proven for everyone,” or “best for all people.” If a claim could affect a user’s decisions or safety, we require stronger support and clear context.
4. Human Review and Oversight
Human editorial review
Every article is reviewed and edited by a human editor before publication. Review focuses on accuracy, clarity, readability, and alignment with these editorial guidelines.
AI-assisted drafting (optional, with human control)
In some cases, AI-assisted drafting may be used to support early drafting, summarization, or rephrasing. AI-assisted drafting does not replace editorial judgment. A human editor remains responsible for the final content, including verifying facts and ensuring the article meets our standards.
Updates and corrections
When important new information becomes available or when we identify a mistake, we update content to improve accuracy and clarity. Corrections may include fixing factual errors, clarifying confusing language, or updating references.
5. Ethical and Quality Principles
- Transparency: we aim to explain what we know, what we don’t know, and where guidance can vary by individual.
- No sensationalism: we avoid clickbait, fear‑driven messaging, and misleading “quick fix” framing.
- User well‑being: we recognize that health topics can be sensitive and we write with care.
- Clear disclaimers: we remind readers that content is informational and not medical advice.
We do not attempt to replace medical guidance. We encourage readers to consult qualified healthcare professionals for individualized recommendations.
6. Update and Maintenance Policy
We periodically review published articles to maintain quality, improve clarity, and ensure information remains current. Reviews may also occur when we receive user feedback, when public guidance changes, or when new evidence meaningfully affects how a topic should be presented.
Outdated content may be updated, expanded, consolidated, or retired. When making updates, we aim to keep the article consistent with our standards and avoid introducing unnecessary complexity.
We value user feedback and use it to identify unclear areas, missing context, and opportunities for improvement.
7. User Feedback and Contact
If you believe something on our site is incorrect, unclear, or outdated, we welcome your feedback. You can reach us through our contact page to request a correction, ask a question, or suggest a topic.
We aim to review feedback and respond within a reasonable timeframe. Helpful reports include the page URL, the specific sentence or section, and (if possible) a reputable source supporting the suggested correction.
Medical disclaimer
Content on Total Health Calculator is provided for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding medical questions, diagnoses, or treatment decisions.
Editorial Checklist
- Reader intent: does the article answer the user’s question quickly?
- Clarity: are key terms defined and explanations easy to follow?
- Evidence: are factual claims supported by reputable sources?
- Tone: professional, neutral, and respectful (no fear or hype).
- Safety: avoids medical claims and includes appropriate disclaimers.
- Maintenance: ready for future updates and corrections.