How do I separate fact from opinion?

Sometimes writers use the words “I think,” “I feel,” “I believe,” or similar words. Such words and phrases often indicate the statement is an opinion. Opinions may be supported by biased or slanted presentation of facts. Watch for connotative language. Sometimes writers will use examples or stories which are based on faulty thinking. Try to recognize the different types of faulty thinking.

Facts are usually supported by examples or statistics. You should look for evidence that the examples and statistics used to support the main idea are reliable and accurate. Reliable and accurate examples and statistics can be recognized by:

• the absence of biased language
• the presence of references to the original sources
• use of examples or statistics from several sources
• use of current examples and statistics
• clear relationship between the details and the main idea