Reported does not mean disproved
The reporting mood separates attribution from the reporter’s own assertion. It does not automatically accuse the source of lying. Everyday speech may use an indicative dass clause instead; the formal construction is useful when keeping voices distinct matters.
Die Sprecherin erklärt, der Plan sei fertig.
The spokesperson states that the plan is ready.
Keep the perfect auxiliary of the main verb
The past report retains the auxiliary appropriate to the event. Reading uses haben; arrival uses sein. A present-looking reporting auxiliary does not make the reported event present. Adjust dates and pronouns to the reporter’s viewpoint as well.
Sie sagt, sie sei am Montag angekommen.
She says that she arrived on Monday.
Make a coinciding form distinctive
Plural sie haben can look identical in the indicative and Konjunktiv I. A formal report can choose hätten to make its reporting status visible. This substitute does not necessarily create an unreal condition. Keep a distinctive form such as sei when it already does the job.
Die Gäste erklären, sie hätten keine Beschwerden.
The guests state that they have no complaints.
Practise this pattern
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References
Original explanations and examples informed by grammar references. Level placement is an editorial teaching choice.