News, analysis and opinion: how to tell them apart
Many websites publish straight news, analysis and opinion side by side. Problems begin when readers mistake one for another.
News reporting
News reports describe what happened using verifiable facts. The writer's personal view is not the point, and claims are attributed to sources.
Analysis
Analysis explains why something happened or what it may mean. It relies on facts but includes the author's interpretation, and it should be labelled as analysis.
Opinion
Opinion pieces argue for a position. They can be valuable, but they are meant to persuade. Columns, editorials and guest essays belong here.
Where to look for labels
Check the small text above the headline, the author's biography and the section of the site. If a piece has no label at all and reads like an argument, treat it as opinion.
Reading across different viewpoints while keeping these categories clear is one of the simplest ways to stay well informed.
This article is general educational information and does not refer to any specific news event. See our editorial policy.
