How should Forbes treat facts and opinions?

• A. Opinions are verifiable and must be sourced; facts are judgments and should be attributed as analysis.
• B. Facts are verifiable and must be sourced; opinions are judgments and should be attributed as analysis or commentary.
• C. Facts and opinions are interchangeable with proper attribution.
• D. Facts do not need to be sourced if they come from experts.

Answer: (B)

Separating verifiable facts from subjective analysis is essential in Forbes' reporting. Facts are statements that can be checked against reliable sources or data; they should be verified and sourced so readers can trace where the information comes from and assess its reliability. Opinions are judgments or interpretations about what the facts mean, and they reflect the writer’s perspective. Those should be clearly labeled as analysis or commentary so readers understand this is the author's view rather than an objective fact.

This approach preserves credibility and reader trust. When facts are sourced, readers can verify the information themselves. Labeling opinions as analysis makes it clear that the interpretation is the writer’s perspective, not an undisputed fact. It also helps attribute responsibility for the viewpoint, which is important for transparency.

The other ideas blur important distinctions. Opinions aren’t verifiable facts, even if they’re supported by evidence, and they should be attributed as analysis rather than presented as fact. Facts and opinions aren’t interchangeable, even with attribution, because presenting a viewpoint as a fact misleads readers. And facts from experts still deserve sourcing and verification to provide context and allow readers to evaluate the evidence.