Sometimes information is presented as facts when they may be just an opinion. The main difference between fact and opinion is that fact can be proven as true whereas opinion cannot be proven as true.
An opinion refers to a personal belief. It relates to how someone feels about something. Others may agree or disagree with an opinion but cannot prove or disprove it. This is what defines it as opinion.
The ability to distinguish between fact and opinion helps you develop critical and analytical skills in reading and listening. Fact and opinion are often woven together in texts and speeches. It is, therefore, imperative that you can unravel the threads of what is true from what is mere belief if you are to navigate the deluge of media you will encounter in your lifetime.
Whether on the news, in advertising, or in a history book, learning to distinguish between what is fact and what is opinion is crucial to becoming an autonomous consumer with the critical thinking skills to avoid being manipulated easily.
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