Fact vs. Opinion?

What are facts and opinions?

Facts are true statements which are provable. The statement “There are three territories in Canada.” is a fact because it can be proved by checking a map. Opinions are based on personal values and beliefs. The statement “Cats make awful pets.” is an opinion. It is not provable. It is a belief or a preference.

You should look for evidence that the examples and statistics used to support the main idea are reliable and accurate. Writers use reliable facts when they:

• State the source of the fact.
• Use examples or statistics from several sources.
• Use current examples and statistics.
• Indicate the limitations of the facts.