Research Methodology

How ETF Comparison Atlas separates primary facts, calculated values, assumptions and editorial conclusions.

Version 2.0Reviewed 2026-08-25

Four evidence layers

Primary factFund objective, stated fee, benchmark, structure and sponsor materials. Each fund page links the sponsor source.
Calculated valueFee-dollar estimates and calculator outputs. Formula, assumptions and exclusions appear beside the result.
Market observationReturns, drawdowns, spread and holdings require a dated data source. current edition omits dynamic values until a reproducible refresh is connected.
Editorial judgmentFit and verdict language is interpretation. It is labeled and never presented as a universal recommendation.

Update rule

A page receives a new modified date only when its facts, methods or conclusions materially change. Rebuilding the site alone does not change every page date.

Corrections

Corrections should identify the page, disputed fact, source and date. Substantive corrections are recorded rather than silently hidden.

Editorial review

Drafting tools may help organize source material. Fund-specific facts and research conclusions require source review before publication. Every published claim must be checked against the cited fund or regulator document.