Score what is visible
Nine-point checklist
The item belongs in the category I am researching.
The album or catalog photos show the details that matter.
Watermarks and contact details are reasonably consistent.
Sizing, measurements, or fit notes are visible when needed.
Price is compared with similar results rather than judged alone.
Shipping weight does not remove the value.
The source or purchase link matches the item being shown.
QC photos are relevant to the same item or source when available.
I can explain why I would save this result.
Mark a point only when the relevant page shows enough evidence. “Probably” and “looks fine” are research notes, not completed checks.
Four score bands
How to score a result
Strong shortlist candidate
Most useful evidence is present, but the result and responsible external parties are still not verified.
Research further
The result has a clear lead and several useful details, with important gaps still open.
Weak evidence
Too many decisions depend on assumptions, missing angles, or an unclear source handoff.
Remove for now
The row does not give enough relevant evidence to justify more time.
Do not award partial points to make a preferred result pass. Keep a short note beside every missing item.
Evidence can be explained
Strong example
A shoe row names the category and exact code. The album shows both sides, heel, outsole, insole length, size notes, and consistent watermarks. The source page appears to match the code and color. A relevant QC set shows the same source and useful angles. Price is compared with similar rows, and likely boxed weight is included in the note.
This could score eight points if the researcher can explain each mark. It remains a shortlist candidate; it is not proof of quality, authenticity, stock, or a protected transaction.
The gaps shape the score
Weak example
A row says only “good bag” and links to an album with three repeated front photos. There are no dimensions, interior views, source link, or relevant QC photos. Watermarks change between images, the price note has no date or variant, and packed weight is ignored.
This should score no more than two or three points. The polished front photo does not repair the missing evidence.
Make the reason explicit
One-sentence save rule
Save a result only when you can name the evidence that makes it useful and the gap that still needs checking.
If the sentence becomes promotional or vague, return to the checklist. “I like it” explains preference; it does not explain the research evidence.
Turn the score into an action
What to do next
Open the relevant category guide
Confirm that your photo, sizing, and weight checks fit the product type.
Review QC evidence
Compare the album claim with handling photos that belong to the same item or source when possible.
Challenge price and shipping context
Compare like with like and include likely packed weight without inventing a quote.
Review seller and link risk
Check watermarks, contact continuity, source-link relevance, recent independent feedback, and payment protection.
Write the verdict
Keep, research further, or remove for now—and record why.
