What is the difference between a fact and an opinion, and how can you tell in a text?

• A. A fact can be tested and proven; an opinion is a belief or judgment not verifiable; check for evidence vs. interpretation
• B. Opinions are always demonstrably true, facts are not
• C. Facts are subjective; opinions are objective
• D. Both are equally verifiable through data

Answer: (A)

Understanding how to tell fact from opinion is about verifiability and evidence. A fact is a statement that can be tested or proven through reliable data, measurements, or sources. An opinion is a belief or judgment that isn’t verifiable in the same objective way; it reflects a viewpoint or feeling rather than something that can be proven.

When you read a text, look for evidence: are there data, studies, numbers, or cited sources to back up a claim? If yes, the claim is functioning as a fact. If the statement relies on personal belief, interpretation, or evaluative language (for example, words like think, feel, should, best), it’s operating as an opinion. Authors often mix both, but identifying whether a claim is supported by evidence versus rooted in interpretation helps you assess how strong or reliable the statement is.

That’s why the best choice says a fact can be tested and proven, while an opinion is a belief or judgment not verifiable, and you should look for evidence versus interpretation to tell them apart.