Being a Critical Reader - continued

So how do you tell the difference?

1. First, consider the author’s purpose in writing. Does the writer wish to relay information about the subject, or does the writer wish to relay feelings about the subject?
2. What is the writer’s motivation? Does he or she want to help you form an opinion? Or does the writer seem indifferent to your opinion?

That should help you your answer whether what your reading is fact or opinion.