Triangulation

Triangulation is the process of checking something by using independent sources, often three, and seeing if they all indicate the same time.

Examples

1. Checking if a statement is true by checking three credible and independent sources.

2. Checking if a scientific instrument is properly calibrated by using three or more independent methods.

3. Checking on what the “rules of inference” are by examining three or more credible college textbooks on the subject of Logic or Critical Thinking.

4. Checking on the accuracy of a calculation by making several independent estimates.

Rationale

1. Gain confidence.

2. Assuming something is correct or true when it is not can cause multiple drawbacks: embarrassment, status loss, wasted time; this can be large, failures, and so on.

3. Prevent mistakes, jumping to conclusions, or believing things that are not true.

4. When you present your findings, this increases the odds that others will accept them as credible.

Triangulation (How To)

1. Figure out independent ways to check things.

2. Skillfully apply these ways and look for agreement.

When I first learned about triangulation I started learning that I was frequently wrong or that my sources were wrong. These findings taught me over time the value of triangulation.

Summary

Triangulation is the process of checking something by using several independent methods.

Rationale: Catch problems early and fix them. Gain confidence. Build credibility.