Testimony of a Witness with Knowledge is an authentication method; which sub-rule provides that the item is what it is claimed to be?

• A. Rule 901. (b)(1)
• B. Rule 901. (a)
• C. Rule 901. (b)(3)
• D. Rule 805

Answer: (A)

Authentication means showing the item is what it is claimed to be. Under Rule 901, the direct way to do this is by a witness who has knowledge identifying the item. If that witness testifies that the item is the same one produced or claimed, the court has a proper foundation that it is authentic. This approach is effective because it ties the item’s identity to someone with actual knowledge of what it is, providing a clear basis for admissibility. Other methods exist under Rule 901 as well (such as other forms of identification or comparison), but a witness with knowledge is the primary route for establishing authenticity.