objective essay difference

Subjective vs. Objective Essay: Examples, Writing Guides, & Topics

Subjective or objective essay writing is a common task students have to deal with. On the initial stage of completing the assignment, you should learn how to differentiate these two types of papers. Their goals, methods, as well as language, tone, and voice, are different.

A subjective essay focuses on the writer’s personal opinion, while an objective one represents valid facts. So, be careful when composing an objective paragraph or paper. Don’t let your beliefs take over real arguments supported by substantial evidence.

In short, differences between these styles concern the following:

• The ground for objective essays is facts; for subjective essays – personal opinions and beliefs.
• Objective papers report the findings from scientific sources, while subjective ones describe the writer’s thoughts.
• The objective essay’s goal is to help the reader make a decision. Subjective writing aims to reflect the author’s vision of the issue.

So, if you face this task for the first time, you may need some explanations. Custom-writing.org experts prepared a list of tips on how to write objective and subjective essays. Some topics, as well as objective and subjective writing examples, will also be useful.

• 🆚 Subjective vs. Objective

🔗 References

🆚 subjective vs. objective essays.

First and foremost, let’s find out the critical differences between the writing styles. Take a look at the following table and shed light on this issue.

An objective essay is a presentation of the material with no independent opinion involved. Only facts matter in this paper, and only facts can back up some assertions. Writing subjective essays implies introducing your standpoint on a particular problem.

📋 How to Write an Objective Essay

Writing any essay consists of three parts: preparation, the actual writing, and revision. During the first one, you need to decide on your topic and do a little research. You can see how it looks in a real example.

Objective Essay Example: The Portrayal of Odysseus

In Odyssey, Homer portrays Odysseus, the king of Ithaca, as the true epic hero. The depiction of Odysseus is thoughtfully knitted together with the themes of love and loyalty that further magnify it, painting a holistic picture of a long 10-year journey home. Although it can be argued that some of Odysseus’s personality traits he displays cannot be applied to a true hero, he is still depicted following a very specific heroic archetype.

Now, let’s get into more detail!

Objective Essay Topics

If you’ve decided to write an objective essay, you need to come up with a topic. The topic gives a reader a brief overview of what will be covered in the paper.

Here are ten great examples:

• While the differences between Italy and Spain are evident, the resemblances are striking.
• There are several similarities between the movies “Deep Impact” and “Armageddon.”
• Compare and contrast the capitals of two English-speaking countries.
• Somatic symptoms in people with PTSD can be influenced by age, gender, and avoidance.
• Some might argue, but being overweight carries a social stigma.
• Environmental factors contribute to the phenotypic expression of psychological disorders.
• Although the exact reason remains unclear, depression is affected by sex, gender, hormonal changes, and age.
• When comparing and contrasting the Bible and Quran, it seems that they have more similarities than differences.
• Musical ability is the result of influence on the person from outside.
• In comparison to extroverts, introverts draw power from within themselves to use it in future activities.

Objective Essay Structure

We shall continue with exploring an essay structure. Note that the parts described below are essential for any essay.

• Introduction . The introduction is usually the part that broadly describes the topic and gets the interest of the reader. This part of the paper should cover some background information and present the purpose.
• Hypothesis . In case your essay has one, state it in your introduction. A hypothesis includes information about how you intend to prove or refute the claim. It briefly describes the way you intend to do so.
• Arguments . Present one side of the argument. In the next paragraph, present the opposing one, using such words as “however,” “nevertheless,” and “although.” The task is to provide the readers with two sides of the argument.
• Evidence . Provide the evidence for all of your points. Keep the balance in providing proof and refutal. Omit your personal opinion, rather than include the evidence you find informative and convincing.
• Conclusion . Summarize the arguments both for and against the position. While remaining objective, shortly go over the information you presented as evidence. If the instructions require a personal opinion, in conclusion, you might write one. In other cases, briefly recap the parts of the essay. Shorten sentence generator would be greatly beneficial in such endeavor.

📜 How to Write a Subjective Essay

As we’ve mentioned earlier, a subjective essay represents the author’s vision of a particular issue. You have an opportunity to introduce your point of view without supporting your ideas with evidence from the primary sources. However, make sure your arguments are still logical and adequate.

Now see how to write a subjective essay in the sections below.

Subjective Writing Example

A well-chosen topic is the vital determinant of a successful essay. Yet, the process of selecting an idea for your paper might be challenging. That’s why you may find our example helpful.

The rapid pace of development of modern technologies increases the demand for oil and gas every year. A considerable amount of these resources is necessary to maintain both industrial enterprises and private equipment. Despite active production, there are still many unexplored places on Earth, potentially rich in oil and gas deposits. However, while making them public would help solve the existing problem, I’m afraid I disagree with this proposal.

Subjective Essay Topics

Check our list of subjective essay topics, choose the one you like the most, or inspire and come up with your idea!

• The fake and too glamorous life presented in social media leads to the development of an inferiority complex among teenagers.
• The information flows within the country should not be controlled by the governments.
• Since developed nations provoked the climate crisis, they should take full responsibility for their past actions and reduce carbon emissions in the atmosphere.
• Cyberbullying should be a matter of the same importance as physical abuse.
• Remote learning opens more opportunities and expands the students’ horizons.
• Instead of catching up with fashion trends, it is better to develop your unique style.
• People should have enough rest to reduce the levels of anxiety and decrease the chances of depression.
• Studying abroad is an experience worth trying.
• Planning and scheduling are perfect strategies to deal with procrastination.
• While applying for a job position, work experience is more significant than having a degree.

📝 Subjective Essay Structure

When you deal with this task, you have full freedom of choice. You can decide for yourself what idea to support and what arguments to present. Still, you have to structure even a subjective essay properly.

Here are the elements you have to include in your paper:

• grab the readers’ attention;
• introduce your subject;
• state your position in the thesis statement.

Important note: your thesis should be clear and straightforward. Let your audience understand your opinion.

• Description . Dive deeper into your topic and describe your issue in detail. However, don’t go too far. Avoid including irrelevant facts and unnecessary information. Follow the principle “quality over quantity” to keep your reader engaged.
• Opinion . After describing your issue, move to the most crucial part of your essay—opinion. State it clearly and concisely. Although you don’t need to provide any evidence from scholarly sources, your ideas should be supported by substantial arguments or examples from your personal life.
• Conclusion . In the last paragraph of your subjective essay, restate your thesis statement. Don’t introduce any other ideas here. To make your paper more dynamic, ask a provocative question at the end. It may motivate your reader for further investigation of your subject.

A helpful tip:

Before submitting your work, make sure it is coherent. Check if all of your ideas follow the logical flow. To avoid redundancy and wordiness, mix shorter sentences with longer ones and apply transitional phrases. Polish your essay, turn it in, and wait for your perfect grade.

Thanks for reading the page! Share it with your peers who may need some guidance as well. Our writers are ready to explain any other essay type , not only objective or subjective ones.

Learn more on this topic:

• How to Write an Expository Essay in Simple Steps
• Nursing Reflective Essay Example and Guidelines for Students
• Essay on Dengue Fever: How to Write + Free Examples
• French Essay Writing: How-to Guide and Examples
• How to Write a Rebuttal Essay: Jackie Michael, Pen and the Pad
• Writing Objectively: OWLL, Massey University
• Subjective vs Objective: Difference and Comparison, Diffen
• Objective and Subjective Claims: TIP Sheet, Butte College
• Evidence: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
• Organizing Your Argument: Purdue Online Writing Lab, College of Liberal Arts, University of Purdue
• Argumentative Paper Format: Courtesy the Odegaard Writing & Research Center, University of Washington
• How Do I Write an Intro, Conclusion, & Body Paragraph: LSA Sweetland Center for Writing, the University of Michigan
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Glad to know that. Thank you very much, Farhana!

Subjective and reflective.

That’s right, Raj 🙂

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Subjective vs. Objective: What's the Difference?

By Hannah Yang

If you’re trying to write a strong essay or story, it’s often important to understand the difference between subjective and objective truth.

What exactly do the words subjective and objective mean, and when should you use each?

This article will explain the difference between the two words, provide examples of how they’re used in a sentence, and discuss whether you should look for objective or subjective information to support your own writing.

• What’s the Difference Between Subjective vs. Objective?

How Would You Use Objective and Subjective in a Sentence?

What are some examples of objective statements, what are some examples of subjective information, how can you tell if something is objective or subjective, what is an objective opinion, are impartial facts better than personal feelings, what’s the difference between subjective vs. objective .

The difference between objective and subjective is related to the difference between facts and opinions.

The word objective describes information that’s based on verifiable facts. Objective truth can be verified by a third party, regardless of who the third party is.

For example, the sentence “The temperature outside is around 10°C” is an objective statement, because that statement will be equally true no matter who says it. Anybody in the world with a working thermometer could verify this statement.

The word subjective is the exact opposite; it describes information that’s based on personal opinion or personal interpretation.

Subjective truth might be different for different people, depending on their own tastes, preferences, or experiences.

The sentence “It’s very cold outside” is a subjective statement, because how true this sentence is depends on personal opinions and experiences.

Many temperatures would feel very cold to someone who grew up in Arizona, but comfortably warm to someone who grew up in Alaska.

One easy way to remember the difference between the two words is to remember that “objective” sounds like “object.”

Objective facts are as concrete as the objects you can touch, like your desk, your bike, or your water bottle.

Subjective facts, on the other hand, pertain to more abstract concepts, like beauty, joy, or discomfort.

Here’s an example of a sentence that uses both objective and subjective in context:

"But now we, as pathologists, need more objective measures because symptoms, to a certain degree, are subjective ." (Time)

This sentence, a quote from a pathologist, argues that symptoms of diseases are somewhat subjective because they differ from person to person.

One patient with the flu might feel horribly nauseous, while another patient with the same flu might feel only a mild cough.

As a result, it’s useful for doctors to have objective tools to determine how ill people are, which don’t have results that vary from person to person.

That way, they can track the way a disease spreads even if not all patients feel the same symptoms.

Let’s look at another example.

"We take our unruly, subjective feelings about a year of television and groom them into something that looks mathematical and objective ." (Slate)

This sentence, a quote from a TV critic, argues that trying to rank TV shows is a meaningless task.

Every viewer has different tastes; some might love lighthearted sitcoms, while others prefer serious dramas.

There’s no objective way for a TV critic to determine a Top 10 list that applies to everybody, because everyone’s tastes and enjoyment levels are inherently subjective.

If what you’re writing can be proven or disproven by evidence, it’s an objective statement. Likewise, if you include a reference to an study or an experiment, it is an objective statement.

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Here are some examples of objective information:

• The largest freshwater fish ever caught was 646 pounds. (Cite- Brittanica)
• Abraham Lincoln was the sixteenth president of the United States.
• The World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic on March 11, 2020.
• I have eaten the plums that were in the icebox.

Keep in mind that those statements would still be considered objective even if they were false.

It’s a common mistake to assume that “objective” is synonymous with “true,” but lies can be objective statements, too. The statement remains objective as long as it doesn’t depend on feelings or opinions.

For example, if William Carlos Williams had written “I didn’t eat any of the plums that were in the icebox,” even though he actually did, that would still qualify as an objective statement.

Here are some examples of false objective statements:

• Abraham Lincoln was the first president of the United States.
• The World Health Organization has never issued an official statement about COVID-19.
• I didn’t eat any of the plums that were in the icebox.

If a statement relies on personal feelings or beliefs, it’s likely to be subjective.

Here are some examples of subjective statements:

• It feels very warm outside.
• Dogs are better than cats.
• The plums in the icebox tasted delicious.

Watch out for subjective information that’s disguised as objective analysis. For example, a newspaper headline that says “New Study Shows That Dogs Are 85% Better Than Cats” sounds like an objective fact. However, because it depends on personal preferences and opinions, it’s still a subjective statement.

Here are some subjective statements that are disguised to sound like objective statements:

• It is objectively very warm outside.
• A new study shows that dogs are 85% better than cats.
• Plums in iceboxes taste ten times better than plums that are left in the heat.

If you’re not sure whether a statement is objective or subjective, here are some useful questions you can ask yourself.

To determine whether a statement is objective , ask:

• Is this statement based on factual evidence?
• Is there a way a scientist could test this statement to figure out if it’s true or false?
• Would a robot without any concept of human emotion be able to say this statement?

If the answers to any of the above questions are “yes,” you’re probably dealing with an objective statement.

To determine whether a statement is subjective , ask:

• Is this statement based on someone’s feelings, preferences, or personal tastes?
• Is it impossible to determine whether this statement is true or false?
• Does this statement make a judgement about something (e.g. good or bad, right or wrong, beautiful or ugly)?

If the answers to any of the above questions are “yes,” you’re probably dealing with a subjective statement.

You can also look at the source of the statement to help you figure out how objective it is.

Sources like peer-reviewed scientific articles and unbiased news articles tend to contain more objective material.

Sources like opinion pieces and creative non-fiction tend to contain more subjective material.

The phrase "objective opinion" might seem counterintuitive, since these two words are essentially opposites.

In this context, the word "objective" means unbiased and impartial, rather than factual. This is also true for the phrase "objective assessment."

For example, you might ask a friend for an objective opinion about whether or not you should break up with your boyfriend.

In this scenario, your friend can’t give you objective advice if they have a personal reason for wanting you to make this decision, such as if they’re secretly in love with your boyfriend too.

Whether you should use subjective or objective statements depends on what your goal is.

If you’re writing a persuasive essay, you’ll usually need factual or quantitative data to make your writing credible. It’s important to search for objective facts from a reliable and impartial source.

On the other hand, you can also make use of subjective evidence, such as personal anecdotes. If you’re writing a persuasive essay about why bullying is wrong, a heartfelt story from the perspective of someone who’s been bullied might touch more readers than impersonal facts.

Most strong essays make use of both subjective and objective truth.

Final Words on the Difference Between Subjective vs. Objective

There you have it: a comprehensive guide to the difference between subjective and objective statements. Which examples did you find most helpful? Let us know in the comments.

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Hannah Yang is a speculative fiction writer who writes about all things strange and surreal. Her work has appeared in Analog Science Fiction, Apex Magazine, The Dark, and elsewhere, and two of her stories have been finalists for the Locus Award. Her favorite hobbies include watercolor painting, playing guitar, and rock climbing. You can follow her work on hannahyang.com, or subscribe to her newsletter for publication updates.

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“Subjective” vs. “Objective”: What’s The Difference?

• Quick Summary
• What Does Subjective Mean?
• What Does Objective Mean?
• How To Use Them

Has someone ever asked for your objective opinion? Or said that something is “entirely subjective ”? The words subjective and objective are used in all kinds of contexts, from journalism to science to grammar, and they’re often discussed as opposites. But what do they actually mean?

In most cases, it comes down to whether something is based on personal experience or on verifiable facts. But it can get confusing. An opinion or viewpoint can be said to be objective or subjective, depending on how it was formed. We’re here to clear all of that up by explaining what each word means and how each should be used.

⚡️ Quick summary

Subjective most commonly means based on the personal perspective or preferences of a person—the subject who’s observing something. In contrast, objective most commonly means not influenced by or based on a personal viewpoint—based on the analysis of an object of observation only.

What does subjective mean?

Generally speaking, subjective is used to describe something that exists in the mind of a person or that pertains to viewpoints of an individual person.

Sometimes, subjective means about the same thing as personal . Everyone’s experience of an event is subjective , because each person’s circumstances and background are unique, leading to different interpretations.

Subjective observation is centered on a person’s own mind and perspectives , as opposed to being general, universal, or scientific . In this way, describing an observation as subjective often implies that it comes with (or is based on) personal biases .

In philosophy, subjective specifically means relating to an object as it exists in the mind, as opposed to the thing as it exists in reality (the thing in itself). All perception relies on your mind, so your perception of a thing is ultimately subjective.

What does objective mean?

In most of its common uses, objective is contrasted with subjective, often as if it’s the opposite. Objective most commonly means not influenced by an individual’s personal viewpoint— unbiased (or at least attempting to be unbiased). It’s often used to describe things like observations, decisions, or reports that are based on an unbiased analysis.

Something that’s truly objective has nothing to do with a person’s own feelings or views—it just deals with facts. When someone says “Objectively speaking,” they’re indicating that they’re going to give an unbiased assessment—not one based on their personal preferences.

Journalists are trained to be as objective as possible when reporting—to leave their opinions out of it and just record and present the facts. This is called objectivity .

What else does objective mean?

In grammar, the word objective is applied to words that function as objects —the recipients of actions. In the sentence The dog ate my homework , the word homework is in the objective case (meaning that it’s the object —the recipient—of the action). The word subjective, on the other hand, is applied to a word that’s the subject of the sentence (in the given example, the dog is the subject—the one performing the action).

Learn more about the verbs that take direct objects—transitive verbs.

Objective is also commonly used as a noun meaning a goal or a target, as in The objective of this article is to teach you about the difference between objective and subjective .

Examples of subjective vs. objective

Let’s think about some scenarios in which something might be classified as subjective or objective.

Let’s say you’re a restaurant critic. There may be certain foods that you subjectively dislike—ones that are just not to your taste. But when critiquing dishes, you must leave your subjective tastes aside and be objective about what you eat—making objective judgments about things like how it’s cooked and seasoned and how the ingredients work together. Even if you’re served a dish that you subjectively don’t like, it’s your job to objectively assess its quality.

In a scientific experiment, your hypothesis might be based—at least in part—on your subjective opinion about what the results will be. But science is about being completely objective by gathering data and making conclusions based on the data.

In everyday life, your objective opinion is the one that sets aside your subjective preferences or feelings about something and instead assesses it based on facts and reality.

How to use subjective vs. objective

Use subjective when you’re talking about an opinion or feeling that is based on an individual’s perspective or preferences.

Use objective when you’re talking about something—like an assessment, decision, or report—that’s unbiased and based solely on the observable or verifiable facts.

Examples of subjective and objective used in a sentence

• All art is subjective —everyone has their own personal interpretation.
• We want to record your subjective views on the topic, so just be honest.
• You can always count on her for an objective opinion, no matter what her personal feelings are.
• Although my objective assessment is that the book is poorly written, I can’t help but love its enemies-to-friends plotline.
• The first part of the assignment is an objective analysis of the data; the second part is an essay on your subjective reaction to it.

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• The four main types of essay | Quick guide with examples

The Four Main Types of Essay | Quick Guide with Examples

Published on September 4, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on July 23, 2023.

An essay is a focused piece of writing designed to inform or persuade. There are many different types of essay, but they are often defined in four categories: argumentative, expository, narrative, and descriptive essays.

Argumentative and expository essays are focused on conveying information and making clear points, while narrative and descriptive essays are about exercising creativity and writing in an interesting way. At university level, argumentative essays are the most common type. 

In high school and college, you will also often have to write textual analysis essays, which test your skills in close reading and interpretation.

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Table of contents

Argumentative essays, expository essays, narrative essays, descriptive essays, textual analysis essays, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about types of essays.

An argumentative essay presents an extended, evidence-based argument. It requires a strong thesis statement —a clearly defined stance on your topic. Your aim is to convince the reader of your thesis using evidence (such as quotations ) and analysis.

Argumentative essays test your ability to research and present your own position on a topic. This is the most common type of essay at college level—most papers you write will involve some kind of argumentation.

The essay is divided into an introduction, body, and conclusion:

• The introduction provides your topic and thesis statement
• The body presents your evidence and arguments
• The conclusion summarizes your argument and emphasizes its importance

The example below is a paragraph from the body of an argumentative essay about the effects of the internet on education. Mouse over it to learn more.

A common frustration for teachers is students’ use of Wikipedia as a source in their writing. Its prevalence among students is not exaggerated; a survey found that the vast majority of the students surveyed used Wikipedia (Head & Eisenberg, 2010). An article in The Guardian stresses a common objection to its use: “a reliance on Wikipedia can discourage students from engaging with genuine academic writing” (Coomer, 2013). Teachers are clearly not mistaken in viewing Wikipedia usage as ubiquitous among their students; but the claim that it discourages engagement with academic sources requires further investigation. This point is treated as self-evident by many teachers, but Wikipedia itself explicitly encourages students to look into other sources. Its articles often provide references to academic publications and include warning notes where citations are missing; the site’s own guidelines for research make clear that it should be used as a starting point, emphasizing that users should always “read the references and check whether they really do support what the article says” (“Wikipedia:Researching with Wikipedia,” 2020). Indeed, for many students, Wikipedia is their first encounter with the concepts of citation and referencing. The use of Wikipedia therefore has a positive side that merits deeper consideration than it often receives.

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An expository essay provides a clear, focused explanation of a topic. It doesn’t require an original argument, just a balanced and well-organized view of the topic.

Expository essays test your familiarity with a topic and your ability to organize and convey information. They are commonly assigned at high school or in exam questions at college level.

The introduction of an expository essay states your topic and provides some general background, the body presents the details, and the conclusion summarizes the information presented.

A typical body paragraph from an expository essay about the invention of the printing press is shown below. Mouse over it to learn more.

The invention of the printing press in 1440 changed this situation dramatically. Johannes Gutenberg, who had worked as a goldsmith, used his knowledge of metals in the design of the press. He made his type from an alloy of lead, tin, and antimony, whose durability allowed for the reliable production of high-quality books. This new technology allowed texts to be reproduced and disseminated on a much larger scale than was previously possible. The Gutenberg Bible appeared in the 1450s, and a large number of printing presses sprang up across the continent in the following decades. Gutenberg’s invention rapidly transformed cultural production in Europe; among other things, it would lead to the Protestant Reformation.

A narrative essay is one that tells a story. This is usually a story about a personal experience you had, but it may also be an imaginative exploration of something you have not experienced.

Narrative essays test your ability to build up a narrative in an engaging, well-structured way. They are much more personal and creative than other kinds of academic writing . Writing a personal statement for an application requires the same skills as a narrative essay.

A narrative essay isn’t strictly divided into introduction, body, and conclusion, but it should still begin by setting up the narrative and finish by expressing the point of the story—what you learned from your experience, or why it made an impression on you.

Mouse over the example below, a short narrative essay responding to the prompt “Write about an experience where you learned something about yourself,” to explore its structure.

Since elementary school, I have always favored subjects like science and math over the humanities. My instinct was always to think of these subjects as more solid and serious than classes like English. If there was no right answer, I thought, why bother? But recently I had an experience that taught me my academic interests are more flexible than I had thought: I took my first philosophy class.

Before I entered the classroom, I was skeptical. I waited outside with the other students and wondered what exactly philosophy would involve—I really had no idea. I imagined something pretty abstract: long, stilted conversations pondering the meaning of life. But what I got was something quite different.

A young man in jeans, Mr. Jones—“but you can call me Rob”—was far from the white-haired, buttoned-up old man I had half-expected. And rather than pulling us into pedantic arguments about obscure philosophical points, Rob engaged us on our level. To talk free will, we looked at our own choices. To talk ethics, we looked at dilemmas we had faced ourselves. By the end of class, I’d discovered that questions with no right answer can turn out to be the most interesting ones.

The experience has taught me to look at things a little more “philosophically”—and not just because it was a philosophy class! I learned that if I let go of my preconceptions, I can actually get a lot out of subjects I was previously dismissive of. The class taught me—in more ways than one—to look at things with an open mind.

A descriptive essay provides a detailed sensory description of something. Like narrative essays, they allow you to be more creative than most academic writing, but they are more tightly focused than narrative essays. You might describe a specific place or object, rather than telling a whole story.

Descriptive essays test your ability to use language creatively, making striking word choices to convey a memorable picture of what you’re describing.

A descriptive essay can be quite loosely structured, though it should usually begin by introducing the object of your description and end by drawing an overall picture of it. The important thing is to use careful word choices and figurative language to create an original description of your object.

Mouse over the example below, a response to the prompt “Describe a place you love to spend time in,” to learn more about descriptive essays.

On Sunday afternoons I like to spend my time in the garden behind my house. The garden is narrow but long, a corridor of green extending from the back of the house, and I sit on a lawn chair at the far end to read and relax. I am in my small peaceful paradise: the shade of the tree, the feel of the grass on my feet, the gentle activity of the fish in the pond beside me.

My cat crosses the garden nimbly and leaps onto the fence to survey it from above. From his perch he can watch over his little kingdom and keep an eye on the neighbours. He does this until the barking of next door’s dog scares him from his post and he bolts for the cat flap to govern from the safety of the kitchen.

With that, I am left alone with the fish, whose whole world is the pond by my feet. The fish explore the pond every day as if for the first time, prodding and inspecting every stone. I sometimes feel the same about sitting here in the garden; I know the place better than anyone, but whenever I return I still feel compelled to pay attention to all its details and novelties—a new bird perched in the tree, the growth of the grass, and the movement of the insects it shelters…

Sitting out in the garden, I feel serene. I feel at home. And yet I always feel there is more to discover. The bounds of my garden may be small, but there is a whole world contained within it, and it is one I will never get tired of inhabiting.

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Though every essay type tests your writing skills, some essays also test your ability to read carefully and critically. In a textual analysis essay, you don’t just present information on a topic, but closely analyze a text to explain how it achieves certain effects.

Rhetorical analysis

A rhetorical analysis looks at a persuasive text (e.g. a speech, an essay, a political cartoon) in terms of the rhetorical devices it uses, and evaluates their effectiveness.

The goal is not to state whether you agree with the author’s argument but to look at how they have constructed it.

The introduction of a rhetorical analysis presents the text, some background information, and your thesis statement; the body comprises the analysis itself; and the conclusion wraps up your analysis of the text, emphasizing its relevance to broader concerns.

The example below is from a rhetorical analysis of Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech . Mouse over it to learn more.

King’s speech is infused with prophetic language throughout. Even before the famous “dream” part of the speech, King’s language consistently strikes a prophetic tone. He refers to the Lincoln Memorial as a “hallowed spot” and speaks of rising “from the dark and desolate valley of segregation” to “make justice a reality for all of God’s children.” The assumption of this prophetic voice constitutes the text’s strongest ethical appeal; after linking himself with political figures like Lincoln and the Founding Fathers, King’s ethos adopts a distinctly religious tone, recalling Biblical prophets and preachers of change from across history. This adds significant force to his words; standing before an audience of hundreds of thousands, he states not just what the future should be, but what it will be: “The whirlwinds of revolt will continue to shake the foundations of our nation until the bright day of justice emerges.” This warning is almost apocalyptic in tone, though it concludes with the positive image of the “bright day of justice.” The power of King’s rhetoric thus stems not only from the pathos of his vision of a brighter future, but from the ethos of the prophetic voice he adopts in expressing this vision.

Literary analysis

A literary analysis essay presents a close reading of a work of literature—e.g. a poem or novel—to explore the choices made by the author and how they help to convey the text’s theme. It is not simply a book report or a review, but an in-depth interpretation of the text.

Literary analysis looks at things like setting, characters, themes, and figurative language. The goal is to closely analyze what the author conveys and how.

The introduction of a literary analysis essay presents the text and background, and provides your thesis statement; the body consists of close readings of the text with quotations and analysis in support of your argument; and the conclusion emphasizes what your approach tells us about the text.

Mouse over the example below, the introduction to a literary analysis essay on Frankenstein , to learn more.

Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is often read as a crude cautionary tale about the dangers of scientific advancement unrestrained by ethical considerations. In this reading, protagonist Victor Frankenstein is a stable representation of the callous ambition of modern science throughout the novel. This essay, however, argues that far from providing a stable image of the character, Shelley uses shifting narrative perspectives to portray Frankenstein in an increasingly negative light as the novel goes on. While he initially appears to be a naive but sympathetic idealist, after the creature’s narrative Frankenstein begins to resemble—even in his own telling—the thoughtlessly cruel figure the creature represents him as. This essay begins by exploring the positive portrayal of Frankenstein in the first volume, then moves on to the creature’s perception of him, and finally discusses the third volume’s narrative shift toward viewing Frankenstein as the creature views him.

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

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At high school and in composition classes at university, you’ll often be told to write a specific type of essay , but you might also just be given prompts.

Look for keywords in these prompts that suggest a certain approach: The word “explain” suggests you should write an expository essay , while the word “describe” implies a descriptive essay . An argumentative essay might be prompted with the word “assess” or “argue.”

The vast majority of essays written at university are some sort of argumentative essay . Almost all academic writing involves building up an argument, though other types of essay might be assigned in composition classes.

Essays can present arguments about all kinds of different topics. For example:

• In a literary analysis essay, you might make an argument for a specific interpretation of a text
• In a history essay, you might present an argument for the importance of a particular event
• In a politics essay, you might argue for the validity of a certain political theory

An argumentative essay tends to be a longer essay involving independent research, and aims to make an original argument about a topic. Its thesis statement makes a contentious claim that must be supported in an objective, evidence-based way.

An expository essay also aims to be objective, but it doesn’t have to make an original argument. Rather, it aims to explain something (e.g., a process or idea) in a clear, concise way. Expository essays are often shorter assignments and rely less on research.

The key difference is that a narrative essay is designed to tell a complete story, while a descriptive essay is meant to convey an intense description of a particular place, object, or concept.

Narrative and descriptive essays both allow you to write more personally and creatively than other kinds of essays , and similar writing skills can apply to both.

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Objective vs. Subjective – What’s the Difference?

Home » Objective vs. Subjective – What’s the Difference?

In today’s climate of widespread, often heated disagreement, the ability to successfully distinguish facts from opinions is more important than ever. Effective arguments include both factual observations and value judgements based on those facts.

In this way, arguments contain both objective and subjective statements. But which is which?

It is important to note that both objective and subjective have multiple senses. In this article, I will focus on their use as they relate to the concepts of objectivity and subjectivity in the philosophy of knowledge, or in simpler terms, to facts and opinions.

Since this site is devoted to writing and language use, I would be remiss not to include a discussion on objective and subjective as grammatical senses, as well.

What is the Difference Between Objective and Subjective?

In this article, I will compare objective vs. subjective . I will use each word in an example sentence to illustrate its proper context.

Plus, I will give you a useful memory tool that will help you decide whether something is objective or subjective .

When to Use Objective

Here are some example sentences,

• The journalist strived to engage in objective reporting.
• “Before we can proceed, we need an objective assessment of the facts of the case,” said the detective.
• “I want an objective analysis of our cash flow problems on my desk by Monday morning,” said the board chair.
• In other words, the model is purely objective and ignores outside factors like personnel, coaching and motivation. – The Wall Street Journal

In grammar, objective means referring to nouns or pronouns used as the object in a sentence . Also, see article on objective pronouns .

When to Use Subjective

For example,

• “My subjective stance,” wrote the columnist, “is that the pasta was not very delicious.”
• Journalists should not allow subjective views to contaminate hard news reporting.
• “The article suffers from subjective interpretations of data, and we reject it from publication in this journal,” wrote a peer reviewer.
• Measuring corruption is difficult and subjective, but in 2015 the group compiled a Corruption Perceptions Index that ranks 168 countries based on the perception of corruption in the public sector. – The New York Times

With regard to sentence-level grammar, subjective refers to nouns or pronouns used as the subject of a sentence. Also, see article on subjective pronouns .

Trick to Remember the Difference

Here is a helpful trick to remember subjective vs. objective . Since objective and observation both begin with the letter O , you can use this letter to link the words together in your mind.

Also, subjective and feelings both contain the letter S , which you can use as an additional mnemonic.

Is it objective or subjective? Objective and subjective are adjectives that refer to unbiased observations and biased evaluations , respectively. They each also have a grammatical sense, where they refer to the function and placement of nouns and pronouns in sentences.

• Something that is objective is not influenced by feelings or personal biases.
• Something that is subjective is up for personal interpretation and subject to personal feelings.

Since both subjective and feelings contain the letter S , you can use this shared feature as a mnemonic to help you remember which word is which.

If you still need help, remember to check this site for a quick refresher, as well as any time you need help with a difficult writing topic.

Subjective vs. Objective

Subjective information or writing is based on personal opinions, interpretations, points of view, emotions and judgment. It is often considered ill-suited for scenarios like news reporting or decision making in business or politics. Objective information or analysis is fact-based, measurable and observable.

Comparison chart

Examples of Objective and Subjective Writing

Here are some examples of objective and subjective statements:

• "47% of Americans pay no federal income tax. These people believe they are victims and would never vote for a Republican candidate." In this quote (which paraphrases Mitt Romney ), the first statement is objective. It is a measurable fact that 47% of Americans do not pay federal income taxes . However, the second statement is Romney's personal point of view and is entirely subjective.
• Apple only allows apps that the company has approved to be installed on iOS devices. The company does not care about openness of their platform. Once again the first statement here is objective, while the second is subjective because fans of the company could argue, as Steve Jobs did , that iOS is indeed an "open" platform.

Objective vs. Subjective Reality

A popular thought experiment asks this hypothetical question: if a tree falls in a forest and there is no one to hear it, does it make a sound? The objective reality in this scenario is that the tree did fall in the forest and made a sound. The objective view is not dependent upon there being an observer for the event. However, there is a school of thought in philosophy that believes that our perception of reality is governed by our senses, which are limited and flawed. Therefore, there is no objective reality that we can discern, and all reality is subjective. Reality is a social construct , a common denominator of the subjective experiences and perceptions of society forms our reality.

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Objective vs subjective writing: all you need to know.

In the realm of writing, there are two distinct styles that authors can employ - objective and subjective. These two styles differ in their approach and purpose, and understanding the difference between them is crucial for any writer looking to effectively convey their message.

In this blog, we will delve into the definition of objective vs subjective writing, explore the differences between the two styles, examine when to use each style, weigh the pros and cons of objective and subjective writing, and provide tips for crafting both styles. By the end of this blog, you will have a comprehensive understanding of objective and subjective writing and be equipped to employ these styles in your own writing endeavours .

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The definition of objective vs subjective.

Objective writing is characterised by presenting information in a neutral and unbiased manner, devoid of personal opinions or emotions. The objective writer strives to present facts and evidence, allowing readers to form their own opinions based on the provided information.

Objective writing is often seen in news articles, scientific papers, and academic essays. In these forms of writing, the author's goal is to provide an accurate and balanced account of the subject matter. By presenting information objectively, the writer allows readers to make informed decisions and draw their own conclusions.

For example, in a news article about a recent political event, an objective writer would report the facts and provide statements from different perspectives. They would avoid injecting their personal opinions or biases, allowing readers to form their own judgments based on the presented information.

On the other hand, subjective writing reflects the author's personal opinions, thoughts, and emotions. It is inherently biased, as the writer uses their own perspective to shape the narrative and evoke specific feelings in the reader.

Subjective writing is commonly found in personal essays, memoirs, and editorials. In these forms of writing, the author's purpose is to express their unique viewpoint and share their personal experiences. By infusing their writing with subjectivity, the author aims to connect with readers on an emotional level and elicit a particular response.

For instance, in a personal essay about overcoming adversity, a subjective writer would narrate their own challenges and triumphs, sharing their emotional journey. They would express their personal opinions and reflections, aiming to inspire and resonate with readers who may have faced similar obstacles.

It is important to note that both objective and subjective writing have their place in different contexts. Objective writing is valued in fields where accuracy and impartiality are crucial, such as journalism and scientific research. On the other hand, subjective writing allows for personal expression and can be powerful in conveying emotions and connecting with readers on a deeper level.

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What is the Difference between Objective and Subjective Writing?

The key difference between objective and subjective writing lies in the level of personal bias and emotional involvement present in each style. Objective writing maintains a detached and impartial tone, while subjective writing embraces the author's perspective and emotions.

Objective writing often relies on factual evidence, logical reasoning, and expert opinions to present a balanced view of the topic. This style is commonly used in news reporting, scientific research papers, and textbooks.

For instance, in news reporting, objective writing ensures that journalists present the facts without personal opinions or emotions. They strive to provide an unbiased account of events, allowing readers to form their own opinions based on the information presented. Scientific research papers also employ objective writing to present findings and conclusions based on rigorous experimentation and analysis. By relying on evidence and logical reasoning, objective writing fosters credibility and trustworthiness.

On the other hand, subjective writing is frequently found in personal essays, memoirs, and creative writing pieces. It allows the writer to express themselves, share personal experiences, and engage the reader on a more emotional level.

Personal essays, for example, provide a platform for individuals to reflect on their own thoughts, feelings, and experiences. By incorporating personal anecdotes and reflections, subjective writing creates a connection between the author and the reader, evoking empathy and understanding. Memoirs, too, rely heavily on subjective writing, as they recount the author's life story and delve into their inner thoughts and emotions.

Moreover, subjective writing is often employed in creative writing pieces such as poetry and fiction. These genres allow authors to explore their imagination, create vivid worlds, and evoke various emotions in the reader. By infusing subjective elements into their writing, authors can transport readers into different realms, eliciting joy, sadness, or even fear.

Ultimately, the choice between objective and subjective writing depends on the purpose and context of the piece. While objective writing aims to provide an impartial view of a topic, subjective writing invites readers to experience the author's unique perspective and emotions. Both styles have their merits and can be used effectively to convey information or evoke a particular response from the reader.

Achieving a Balance between the Two Writing Styles

While objective and subjective writing may seem like opposing forces, achieving a balance between the two can lead to powerful and engaging writing. Incorporating elements of both styles can help captivate the reader while maintaining credibility and reliability.

Objective writing, often associated with news articles or scientific papers, focuses on presenting information in a neutral and unbiased manner. It relies on facts, evidence, and logical reasoning to convey a message. However, purely objective writing can sometimes feel dry and detached, lacking the emotional connection that subjective writing can provide.

On the other hand, subjective writing allows the writer to express personal opinions, emotions, and experiences. It adds a human touch to the text, making it relatable and engaging. Subjective writing often includes personal anecdotes, descriptive language, and expressive metaphors that can evoke powerful emotions in the reader.

By grounding subjective writing in objective facts and supplementing objective writing with personal anecdotes or examples, writers can strike a balance that informs and engages the reader in a compelling manner. For example, when discussing a scientific study, an objective writer can introduce the topic with a concise overview of the research methodology and results. Then, they can incorporate subjective elements by sharing their personal thoughts on the implications of the study or how it relates to their own experiences.

Similarly, when writing a personal essay or opinion piece, a writer can start by sharing a personal story or experience that hooks the reader's attention. They can then support their subjective perspective with objective evidence, such as statistics or expert opinions, to strengthen their argument and enhance their credibility.

Striking a balance between objective and subjective writing is not only about mixing the two styles but also about knowing when and how to use them effectively. It requires careful consideration of the target audience, the purpose of the writing, and the desired impact on the reader. By skillfully blending objective and subjective elements, writers can create a harmonious and persuasive piece of writing that resonates with their readers.

In conclusion, achieving a balance between objective and subjective writing is a skill that can greatly enhance the effectiveness of any piece of writing . By incorporating elements of both styles, writers can inform, engage, and connect with their readers on a deeper level. So, whether you are writing a news article, a research paper, or a personal essay, remember to find the right balance between objectivity and subjectivity to create a compelling and impactful piece of writing.

When to Use Objective Writing

Objective writing is best suited for situations where presenting facts, evidence, and logical arguments is crucial. It is commonly used in academic writing, scientific research, and news reporting. Objectivity ensures that the information presented is reliable, trustworthy, and free from personal bias.

When to Use Subjective Writing

Subjective writing shines when the writer wants to communicate their personal experiences, emotions, and opinions. It adds depth and authenticity to storytelling , making it an ideal choice for personal essays, memoirs, and creative writing pieces where the author's unique perspective is the focal point.

Pros and Cons of Objective Writing

Objective writing has several advantages. It allows readers to come to their own conclusions based on the presented information, promoting critical thinking. Additionally, it lends credibility to the writer and their work by demonstrating a commitment to accuracy and research. However, objective writing can sometimes be perceived as dry or lacking emotional impact, as it focuses solely on presenting facts and evidence.

Pros and Cons of Subjective Writing

Subjective writing, with its emphasis on personal expression and emotional appeal, has the ability to deeply resonate with readers. It allows writers to connect on a more intimate level, fostering empathy and understanding. However, subjective writing is more prone to criticism regarding its objectivity and potential bias.

Tips for Crafting Objective Writing

To craft effective objective writing, it is important to prioritise factual accuracy and substantiate claims with reliable sources. Organise your thoughts in a logical manner, providing clear evidence and supporting arguments. Use concise and straightforward language to ensure clear communication.

Tips for Crafting Subjective Writing

When crafting subjective writing, embrace your unique perspective and use vivid language to evoke emotions in your reader. Share personal anecdotes and experiences that help illustrate your point of view. However, remember to strike a balance between personal expression and maintaining coherence in your writing.

Objective vs Subjective in Writing

Objective and subjective writing styles can be employed in various genres and forms of writing. While objective writing is often associated with academic and professional contexts, subjective writing finds its place in personal narratives, creative endeavours, and opinion pieces. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each style, writers can effectively tailor their approach to suit the desired outcome.

Other Uses of Objective vs Subjective

While objective and subjective writing styles are commonly discussed in the context of written communication, it is important to note that these styles extend beyond writing alone. Objective and subjective perspectives can influence various aspects of life, decision-making, and even interpersonal relationships. Understanding and recognizing the differences between objective and subjective viewpoints can lead to more effective communication overall.

Objective and Subjective Writing are Both Valuable

Whether you are presenting research findings, sharing personal experiences, or engaging readers with creative storytelling, both objective and subjective writing have their place and value. The ability to employ these two writing styles selectively allows for versatile and impactful communication. Remember, the key lies in understanding the context, purpose, and audience of your writing.

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Difference Between Objective and Subjective

Although in the absence of facts on a matter, then the statement becomes subjective , as the speaker presents his/her opinion, which is always biased. Subjective perspective is based on personal feelings, likes, interest, dislikes, and the like. So, the actual difference between objective and subjective piece of information lies in the facts and opinion.

Content: Objective Vs Subjective

Comparison chart.

Definition of Objective

Objective refers to an unbiased and balanced statement that represents facts about something. The statement is not coloured by the past experiences, prejudices, perceptions, desires or knowledge of the speaker. Therefore, they are independent and external to the mind of the specific person.

As the information is entirely facts based, it can be is observable, quantifiable and provable. It can be counted, described and imitated. It presents complete truth and is free from individual influences, so it proves helpful in rational decision making.

Definition of Subjective

Subjective means those ideas or statements which are dominated by the personal feelings, opinion, preferences of the speaker. It is an interpretation of truth or reality, from the speaker’s angle, that informs and affects the judgement of people and is always biased. It can be a belief, opinion, rumour, assumption, suspicion, that is influenced by the speaker’s standpoint.

A subjective point of view is characterised by the past experiences, knowledge, perceptions, understanding and desires of the specific person. These statements are exclusively based on the ideas or opinion of the person making it, as there is no universal truth.

Key Differences Objective and Subjective

The fundamental differences between objective and subjective are discussed in the given below points:

• A neutral statement, which is completely true and real, unbiased and balanced, is an objective one. Subjective means something which does not show the clear picture or it is just a person’s outlook or expression of opinion.
• An objective statement is based on facts and observations. On the other hand, a subjective statement relies on assumptions, beliefs, opinions and influenced by emotions and personal feelings.
• Objective information is provable, measurable and observable. In contrast, subjective information is relative to the subject, i.e. the person making it.
• The objective statement can be checked and verified. Unlike subjective statement or a series of balanced opinions, so they can’t be checked and verified.
• When a piece of information is objective, it remains same, irrespective of the person reporting it. Conversely, a subjective statement differs from individual to individual.
• An objective statement is appropriate for decision making, which is not in the case of a subjective statement.
• You can find the objective statement in hard science, textbooks and encyclopaedias, but a subjective statement is used in blogs, biographies, and comments on social media.

At the end of the discussion, objective information is one that produces the complete truth, i.e. it presents a story from all the angles in a systematic way. It is a fact, which is provably true. On the contrary, subjective information is coloured by the character of the person providing it. It is a great interpretation or analysis of the facts based on personal beliefs, opinion, perspective, feelings, etc.

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December 4, 2018 at 12:00 pm

Patrick says

December 21, 2018 at 1:05 pm

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Surbhi S says

December 22, 2018 at 9:42 am

Thanks a lot, you can find the differences here. https://keydifferences.com/difference-between-qualitative-and-quantitative-research.html

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Subjective vs. Objective: What’s the Difference?

It’s often easy to confuse the difference between subjective and objective, but misusing them will cause poorly conferred information.

In order to use them properly, you need to know what each word means.

Table of Contents

What Does Subjective Mean?

Subjective is defined by the Cambridge Dictionary as “influenced by or based on personal beliefs or feelings, rather than based on facts”. So, for example, my saying the weather is beautiful is subjective. It cannot be measured and is based on how I personally feel about the weather.

What Does Objective Mean?

Objective is defined by the Cambridge Dictionary as “based on real facts and not influenced by personal beliefs or feelings”. A good example of objective is the statement, “The weather today will be seventy-five degrees and sunny.” This statement is based on fact and is measurable rather than how I feel about the weather.

Examples of Subjective and Objectives

Here are a couple of examples of subjective vs objective in sentences.

Subjective Examples

“You can’t say cilantro tastes good because that’s a very subjective idea. I think it tastes terrible!”

“Mary’s testimony is subjective and therefore inadmissible.”

“I know you think this building is ugly, but all opinions are subjective and I find it beautiful.”

“Telling people Christmas is a wonderful time of year is very subjective; some people hate it.”

Objective Examples

“Larry, stop hollering your opinions; you need to stay objective if you want to be a reporter.”

“I know you love cats, but if you look at it objectively, you can’t afford to care for ten of them.”

“An objective measurement will tell us exactly how high the water has risen.”

“Telling me the billboard is huge is not objective. I need measurements in feet and inches.”

Additional Usages of Objective and Subjective

Be sure you don’t confuse the difference between subjective and objective in a statement. If we say that Gordon’s feet are size sixteen, that’s objective. Saying Gordon’s feet are enormous is subjective.

Objectivity can also be a good way around being hurting someone’s feelings. For example, if someone were to ask you about the size of Gordon’s feet, you would simply mention his shoe size and leave out the subjective assessment of huge.

Another example of using objectivity to wiggle out of a jam is if someone asks your opinion on clothing you don’t like. Find an objective measurement such as color, and add your subjective opinion to that.

If you’re asked by your girlfriend how they look in their new dress, you could simply tell them you love the green color. The dress is green (objective), you like the green color (subjective). This lets you use both objectivity and subjectivity while avoiding telling her you hate the dress.

In a job setting, it’s important to use these words correctly. If your supervisor were to ask how a project is going, using subjective answers might imply you don’t really know. Instead of saying it’s going really well (subjective), employ objective measurements to your response. For example, “The job was projected to take three weeks to complete, but my team will have it done in two.”

A Good Way to Remember Subjective vs Objective

Subjective means you’re giving your standpoint on an idea or thing.

S =subjective, S =standpoint

Objective means you’re giving an observable fact .

O =objective, O =observe

Another way to remember is to ask yourself if you can measure it. If you can measure it, it’s objective. If you cannot, it’s subjective.

Brian is five feet, ten inches tall. This is objective because you can observe his height (O=objective, O=observe).

Brian is very tall. This is subjective because you cannot measure ‘very tall’. To someone 6’5″ tall, he would be short, to someone 4′ tall, he’d be tall, therefore his height of tall or short is based on a person’s standpoint (S=subjective, S=standpoint).

Now that you have subjectivity and objectivity squared away, for forth and use your powers for good!

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Objective vs Subjective Writing: What’s the Difference?

• POSTED ON November 10, 2023
• by Marcjean Yutuc

Even in the era marked by the emergence of AI writing assistants like ChatGPT and Bard, the act of writing retains its critical role as an indispensable human skill, crucial for nurturing creativity, critical thinking, and personal expression.

This significance extends into the realm of choosing between objective and subjective writing styles, which profoundly influences how messages are received and interpreted.

Whether you’re a student, journalist, or content creator, mastering these unique styles is crucial. Moreover, learning how to excel as a writer will undoubtedly provide a competitive edge.

In this blog, we will explore the nuances of objective and subjective writing, offering insights on how they can be artfully utilized to enhance your content. Additionally, we highlight a selection of online language courses designed to bolster your writing skills, ensuring your ability to communicate effectively in any context.

What Is Subjective Writing?

Subjective writing is the language of perspective that is influenced by personal feelings. It aims to let the listener or reader know how the writer or speaker feels, thinks, or believes. Because it is subjective, it focuses mainly on feelings, attitudes, impressions, values, thoughts, and beliefs. 

Subjective writing is not an accurate representation of what truly is, but rather an impression made by the speaker or writer. Therefore, it can be hard to prove the point or message of subjective writing. You may need to combine it with persuasive speech in order to convince your listener or reader to believe in your point of view.

Qualities of subjective writing

Subjective writing has one or more of the following tell-tale characteristics:

1. Contains personal language

With subjective writing, your reader will feel as if someone is personally speaking to them. You can find the best example of the use of personal language in love letters. The words “I,” “you,” we,” and ”us” are often peppered throughout each line.

2. Passes judgment

Describing things with the use of adjectives counts as passing judgment. Calling someone fat, skinny, sickly, or even beautiful is a form of judgment. Therefore, judgmental writings such as these are considered subjective writing.

3. Makes assumptions

Saying that your little sister hates Math because she always gets low grades in that subject is a form of assumption. While it may be true, there is no direct indicator that solidifies your claim. She may still love Math despite failing at it because it challenges her.

4. Emotive and dramatic

Another quality of subjective writing is its affinity to emotion. For example, people who are opposed to vaccinating children may say that children are highly vulnerable and fragile creatures who cannot tolerate foreign chemicals injected into their bodies. While scientific data show negligible risk to vaccinating, they subjectively believe that it is harmful.

5. Exaggerated

Because subjective writing only translates what the speaker or writer feels, it sometimes becomes exaggerated. What is mildly disturbing for other people may be wildly inappropriate for others.

6. Uses exclamation marks

Some subjective pieces make use of exclamation marks to convey strong emotions such as anger or joy.

7. Uses capitalization

Capitalized words are also a technique accepted in subjective and informal pieces of writing. You may find some capitalization in blogs or social media posts as an attempt to create emphasis on that word and what it is trying to convey.

Where you can find subjective writing

Subjective writing is not at all formal and may even seem inappropriate. However, it is totally acceptable and even expected to see subjective writing in these instances:

• Literary work such as poems and stories
• Personal journals
• Speeches during informal events
• Social media posts

Learn creative writing using subjective writing with the help of this creative writing course .

Practicing subjective writing skills has its own benefits. Here’s what Nanie Batac, a seasoned writer, has to share. 

Practicing subjective writing nurtures a unique personal voice and emotional expressiveness, fostering deeper connections with readers through relatable and engaging content. It encourages critical thinking and creative exploration, enabling writers to articulate their perspectives with clarity and conviction. This practice not only enhances storytelling but also strengthens the writer's ability to persuade and resonate with diverse audiences. Nanie Batac, Professional Writer

What Is Objective Writing?

Objective writing, by definition, is the direct opposite of subjective writing. You can say that it is devoid of any emotion, opinion, or assumption and makes very little use of adjectives unless they are supported by data.

Facts and figures speak for themselves in objective writing. This makes them more reliable, although they are not always the most compelling pieces.

Objective writing is impartial, fair, and accurate. You can’t find an inch of exaggeration with objective vs subjective writing, and so it is mostly saved for more formal communication. Everyday language is often not factual.

Qualities of objective writing

These are some of the things that you will notice in an objective piece or statement:

1. Clear topic statements

Objective writing likes to say things as they are. Therefore, you can expect there to be clear and concise topic statements with no partiality. Instead of saying things such as “you have so many wonderful varieties to choose from,” an objective approach would be to say, “there are a number of options available.”

2. Facts and evidence

One glaring thing you might notice in objective pieces is the presence of data and numbers. There are no accusatory statements in objective writing, but rather it lets the facts and evidence speak for their own.

3. Fair and accurate

Nothing can be more accurate than a number. One is one. There are no variations, deviations, or other versions of it. Since objective writing makes use of numbers, it is safe to say that it is accurate.

It is also fair because there is no judgment or opinion made. All sides of an issue have a chance to present their own facts, and there are no biases.

4. Non-Judgmental

While the subjective language may say, “You have too many bags!” objective language will simply state that “You have fifty bags.” As you can see, there is no trace of judgment on the second statement. It merely says how many bags you have. Whether or not you think it’s too many is entirely up to you.

5. Impersonal recommendations

You will often see recommendations in scientific studies and publications. These bodies of work thoroughly assess an issue with the use of data to come up with the recommendations that they publish at the end. 

For example, suppose the efficacy profile of a drug shows that it is 99 percent effective for treating migraine. In that case, the journal may recommend it for the use of treatment for migraine, given its data-supported efficacy.

Where you can find objective writing

You can find objective writing in the following:

• History books
• Scientific publications
• Encyclopedias

Even if you’re not a scientist or a doctor, you might still find objective writing useful. Academic writing, such as essays, favors the use of objective writing, even if it allows a bit of subjective expression. 

The difference between objective vs subjective writing is so stark that it is impossible to mistake one from the other. Just keep in mind that objective writing is more factual and subjective writing is more emotive and influenced by personal feelings or opinions.

Writing Courses You Should Take

Four writing styles for professional content writing.

This course teaches you the four basic writing styles: expository, narrative, descriptive, and persuasive. It also covers the five-sensory descriptions (visual, aural, gustatory, olfactory, and tactile) in descriptive content writing, and the three elements of persuasive content writing (ethos, pathos, and logos). The course is suitable for all skill levels and will help you improve your content writing and creative writing skills.

You should take this course if you want to:

• Improve your content writing skills
• Learn the four basic writing styles
• Understand the five-sensory descriptions in descriptive content writing
• Learn the three elements of persuasive content writing
• Improve your creative writing skills

Turn Words To Passive Income With Copywriting 101

This course teaches you how to write effective copy that sells. You will learn how to write copy that speaks to customers’ emotions and moves them to take action. The course also covers what copywriting is and why it’s important for every business.

• Learn how to write copy that sells
• Write copy that speaks to customers’ emotions
• Understand what copywriting is and why it’s important
• Learn how to avoid common copywriting mistakes

Creative Writing For Beginners: Unlock Your Creativity

This online course is designed for beginners who want to learn the fundamentals of creative writing. It will teach you how to develop characters, create compelling narratives, craft personal essays, and write engaging fiction. You will also learn about different forms of writing, such as short stories, poetry, and creative nonfiction. The course is taught by experienced writers who will share their tips and techniques to help you improve your writing skills.

• Learn the basics of creative writing
• Develop essential writing skills
• Explore different forms of writing
• Improve your communication skills
• Uncover your creativity
• Learn from experienced writers

Frequently Asked Questions 

Why is it important to distinguish between objective and subjective writing.

Distinguishing between objective and subjective writing is important because it helps readers understand the purpose and reliability of the information being presented. 

Objective writing is crucial when facts and an unbiased perspective are necessary, such as in scientific research or news reporting, to make informed decisions or understandings. 

Subjective writing, while offering depth and personal insight, may not always provide a complete or balanced view and can influence the reader’s perception through the author’s personal bias. Knowing the difference allows readers to critically assess the information’s credibility and how it fits into their own understanding or research.

Can a piece of writing be both objective and subjective?

Yes, a piece of writing can blend both objective and subjective elements. For example, an article may start with an objective overview of a topic, presenting facts and evidence, and then move into a subjective section where the author provides their personal opinion or analysis based on those facts. 

This approach allows the writer to present a well-rounded view by grounding their personal insights in objective reality. However, maintaining a clear distinction between the two within the piece is crucial for ensuring the reader can differentiate between factual information and the author’s personal perspective.

How does audience expectation influence the choice between objective and subjective writing?

Audience expectation plays a crucial role in determining whether objective or subjective writing is more appropriate. 

In contexts where the audience expects factual, unbiased information, such as academic research, news reporting, or technical documentation, objective writing is preferred. Conversely, in settings where personal insight, creativity, or opinion is valued, such as blogs, personal essays, or literary critiques, subjective writing is more suitable. 

Understanding the audience’s expectations helps the writer choose the right style to effectively communicate their message and meet the audience’s needs.

What are the challenges of objective writing?

One of the main challenges of objective writing is ensuring complete neutrality and avoiding any bias, which requires thorough research, fact-checking, and sometimes a detachment from personal beliefs. 

Writers must carefully select their words to avoid inadvertently implying opinions or judgments. Another challenge is presenting complex information in an accessible way without oversimplifying or distorting the facts. Objective writing demands a high level of rigor and discipline to accurately convey information without influencing the reader’s perception with personal bias.

Are there specific genres where subjective writing is more prevalent than objective writing?

Yes, there are specific genres where subjective writing is more prevalent. These include the following: 

• Personal blogs
• Autobiographies
• Opinion columns, and 
• Literary criticism

Subjective writing is also common in arts and entertainment reviews, such as books, movies, and music, where personal interpretation and emotional response are valued. 

These genres thrive on the unique perspectives and insights of the writer, making subjective writing not only appropriate but often the expected norm.

Skill Success Expert Insights on Objective vs Subjective Writing

Researchers at MIT have identified a trend where misinformation on Twitter travels more swiftly than factual information, primarily propelled by human activity rather than automated bots. 

Their findings indicate that tweets with inaccurate content are retweeted 70% more frequently than those with accurate information. 

BA Isla, a writer with over 15 years in the field, has noticed significant changes in the industry, especially an increasing lean towards subjective writing. She underscores that while the freedom to express personal views is crucial, it introduces unique challenges, particularly in the context of distinguishing between truth and falsehood in the digital age.

The rise of social media has provided a platform for individuals to openly share their thoughts. In this landscape, it's crucial to strike a balance between objective and subjective writing. Supporting opinions with data and facts is essential to prevent the spread of misinformation or exaggerated claims. Unfortunately, dramatic posts and articles often gain undue credibility. Now more than ever, it's imperative for responsible writers to step forward. BA Isla, Content Writer, Skill Success

Key Takeaways

Objective and subjective writing represent two distinct approaches to conveying information and expressing opinions. Objective writing focuses on presenting verifiable facts and unbiased perspectives, while subjective writing delves into the realm of personal experiences, emotions, and interpretations.

As writers, the key lies in recognizing the appropriate context for each style. When striving to inform and educate, objective writing is the ideal tool. When aiming to evoke emotions, inspire action, or share personal experiences, subjective writing takes center stage.

To embark on a journey of continuous learning and unlock your full writing potential, we invite you to subscribe to Skill Success All Access Pass . This pass grants you access to our entire library of courses, empowering you to master a wide range of writing techniques, from crafting captivating blog posts to penning impactful business proposals.

Marcjean Yutuc

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What Is the Difference Between Objective and Subjective Writing (Examples)

A :  I would argue with you, but what you are saying is completely subjective.

B :  Well, objective assessment makes no sense where I am describing my feelings!

We have all heard arguments like this. So what is subjective and objective anyway?

What are the subjective statements?

Subjective is something individual. It is more about the person, the subject, and therefore is it subject-oriented. According to  Oxford Learner’s Dictionary , subjective information is “based on your own ideas or opinions rather than facts, and therefore sometimes unfair”.

A subjective statement is made from personal feelings, views, and opinions. It may not reflect actual facts or real-life information. A subjective statement will sound like this:

This locality is full of annoying birds.

Well, we do understand from this statement that there are birds in the locality, but whether they are annoying or not is something ‘subjective’, or a personal preference.

What are objective statements?

Objective  definition in Oxford Learner’s Dictionary is something that is “not influenced by personal feelings or opinions; considering only facts”.

An objective statement does not take into consideration personal feelings, points of views, and individual perceptions. It draws from verifiable facts, actual proven data, and scientifically sound knowledge.

The same above statement can be expressed objectively as follows:

This locality is full of birds.

This is an objective statement and tells only facts and not feelings. Whether the birds are annoying or pretty is very much a personal opinion.

Identifying Objective and Subjective Statements

When we come to pitch objective vs subjective, it is easy to identify which is which. A statement that shares feelings or opinions is subjective, and a sentence that gives only information without interpretation is objective.

Let us look at a few examples.

“ The field of mycorrhizal networks has been sort of plagued by having to keep going back and redoing these experiments “, says Dr. Simard, a Canadian scientist.

She also says, “ None of these studies can do everything all at once, especially when you’re working with graduate students “. ( The New York Times )

While the first statement makes an objective observation of scientific experiments, the second statement is an observation made from personal experience.

“47% of Americans pay no federal income tax. These people believe they are victims and would never vote for a Republican candidate” . ( Mitt Rommey )

What is subjective writing?

Subjective writing is the kind of writng that involves personal opinions, subjective information and views. These are generally in first person or through a fictional character but not always. One will find subjective writing in blogs, internet, everyday life and conversations, news editorials, speeches and so on. Subjective writing can be biased and unsuitable for decision making.

If you are starting a blog, or writing opinion-based articles, it is very natural to be subjective. They should but may or may not be based on research or hard facts. But it is advised to do the due diligence and build credibility of your opinions.

What is objective writing?

Objective writing is writing based in objective information, unbiased data and analysis. Objective data is quantitative in nature, verifiable facts, and can be observed through various measures. There is no place for assumptions in objective analysis. It is as ruthless as it seems.

Objective opinion is a comment based on objective data and not own thoughts. It can be seen in hard news reporting, news articles, scientific research papers and statistical analyses. It is given that writing that involves objective perspective is preceded by correct research and backed by proven data. The word objective itself shows that is object-oriented, which is away from the bias of subjectivity.

When to use objective and subjective in writing?

If you are writing something with an objective aim, which wants to prove something by presenting conflict and resolution, or simply record a chain of events that happened then objective writing should be the best choice.

On the other hand if you are writing a personal essay with your own thoughts and subjective views then subjective writing would be the medium of writing. Blogs, social media posts, fictional novels and short stories can use subjective opinion and writing.

Book chapters, research papers, statistical reports, survey records, news reporting should be without personal biases and subjective observation. To become a better writer you can mix the two to prove a point in advanced field of research and for innovative ideas.

The key differences of objective vs subjective lies in the validity of the content in relation to hard facts verifiable truths. Objective writing of fact-oriented, while subjective writing is opinion-oriented.

Examples of Objective Writing

• It is sunny and windy outside.
• 12% of the students have signed up for the school carnival.
• The stock market has gone down by a hundred points.
• The book has 11 chapters.
• I have brought sandwich for lunch.
• The pen is blue in colour.
• That is a L sized dress.
• The phone can run only two applications at one time.
• Only 75% of the people casted the vote.
• The sun sets in the west.
• The cell phone is now at a 12% charge.
• Twenty of my friends will be joining the event tomorrow.
• The car crashed in under the gate of Willow Building.
• Universities will be closed tomorrow due to the strike.
• The shipment will be delivered in 3-5 business days.
• Objective and subjective are types of statements.
• The bus leaves at 2 p.m.

Examples of Subjective Writing

• I believe an angel is always protecting me.
• The bag is in a shade I do not like.
• The weather is very pleasant.
• I think they might arrive late.
• I do not like a subjective point of view.
• Agatha Christie is a better writer than O’ Henry.
• The cake is delicious.
• The view from the eighth floor is amazing.
• Few people turned up for the seminar.
• David is a good boy.
• Its turtles all the way down.

Misleading Sentences

There are a third type of sentences that misleads us into thinking it something which is not. These are subjective statements disguised as objective. This means that these sentences look objective in nature but are actually subjective in reality. Let us look at some examples.

This muffin is five times better than the last one.

In this sentence, though it involes an objective information, it is actually a subjective statement. This is because one cannot numerically measure quantity, which in this case, is taste.

Let us take another example.

Research shows that countryside is 80% more beautiful than city.

This also has a similar explanation. While it gives us an objective number, that i s ‘80%’, one cannot measure intangible qualities like beauty, goodness, taste, or happiness. If something cannot be measured, it cannot be called factual therefore it cannot be verified. These are misleading sentences. They give a few objective information about something that is either a subjective perception or a unmeasurable quality.

You can identify such sentences by looking at what the objective data is about. If the data is about a subjective area then the sentence is misleading.

• The food does not taste half as good as mine.
• What I am saying are very objective personal views.
• Pink bags are twenty times better than orange bags.

We have by now understood the words subjective, objective, their difference, their aim and their use. Subjective information is a personal interpretation of a factual event. Objective information on the other hand is exactly what happened.

Subjective statement can be used in expressing emotions, in conversing with a friend, writing own experiences in personal diary, or fictional writing like short story and novels. Objective statement should be used in official documents like government records, news articles, and legal documents.

There are sentences which may appear objective but is actually subjective in hiding. To identify those sentences find out what the objective value is targeted at.

Objective vs subjective is a common debate in the English language, and can be summed up just a few words: fact-oriented and opinion-oriented, respectively.

Tomas Laurinavicius

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The Difference Between Subjective and Objective Assessments

To design effective exams, educators need a strong understanding of the difference between objective and subjective assessments. Each of these styles has specific attributes that make them better suited for certain subjects and learning outcomes. Knowing when to use objective instead of subjective assessments, as well as identifying resources that can help increase the overall fairness of exams, is essential to educators’ efforts to accurately gauge the academic progress of their students.

Subjective Assessment

According to EnglishPost.org , “Subjective tests aim to assess areas of students’ performance that are complex and qualitative, using questioning which may have more than one correct answer or more ways to express it.” Subjective assessments are popular because they typically take less time for teachers to develop, and they offer students the ability to be creative or critical in constructing their answers. Some examples of subjective assessment questions include asking students to:

• Respond with short answers.
• Craft their answers in the form of an essay.
• Define a term, concept, or significant event.
• Respond with a critically thought-out or factually supported opinion.
• Respond to a theoretical scenario.

Subjective assessments are excellent for subjects like writing, reading, art/art history, philosophy, political science, or literature. More specifically, any subject that encourages debate, critical thinking, interpretation of art forms or policies, or applying specific knowledge to real-world scenarios is well-suited for subjective assessment.

Objective Assessment

Objective assessment, on the other hand, is far more exact and subsequently less open to the students’ interpretation of concepts or theories. Edulytic defines objective assessment as “a way of examining in which questions asked has a single correct answer.” Mathematics, geography, science, engineering, and computer science are all subjects that rely heavily on objective exams. Some of the most common item types for this style of assessment include:

• Multiple-choice
• True / false
• Fill in the Blank
• Assertion and reason

Which Kinds of Programs Use Which Exam Types?

Objective assessments are popular options for programs with curricula structured around absolutes or definite right and wrong answers; the sciences are a good example. If there are specific industry standards or best practices that professionals must follow at all times, objective assessments are an effective way to gauge students’ mastery of the requisite techniques or knowledge. Such programs might include:

• Engineering

Subjective assessments, on the other hand, lend themselves to programs where students are asked to apply what they’ve learned according to specific scenarios. Any field of study that emphasizes creativity, critical thinking, or problem-solving may place a high value on the qualitative aspects of subjective assessments. These could include:

• Arbitration

How Can Educators Make Their Assessments More Objective?

Creating objective assessments is key to accurately measuring students’ mastery of subject matter. Educators should consider creating a blueprint for their exams to maximize the objectivity of their questions. It can be easier to write objective items when using an exam blueprint. Building an exam blueprint allows teachers to track how each question applies to course learning objectives and specific content sections, as well as the corresponding level of cognition being assessed.

Once educators have carefully planned out their exams, they can begin writing questions. Carnegie Mellon University’s guide to creating exams offers the following suggestions to ensure test writers are composing objective questions.

• Write questions with only one correct answer.
• Compose questions carefully to avoid grammatical clues that could inadvertently signify the correct answer.
• Make sure that the wrong answer choices are actually plausible.
• Avoid “all of the above” or “none of the above” answers as much as possible.
• Do not write overly complex questions. (Avoid double negatives, idioms, etc.)
• Write questions that assess only a single idea or concept.

ExamSoft Can Help Improve the Objectivity of Your Exams

One important, and frequently overlooked, aspect of creating objective assessments is the manner in which those assessments are scored. How can teachers ensure that essay or short-answer questions are all evaluated in the same manner, especially when they are responsible for scoring a substantial number of exams? According to an ExamSoft blog titled “ How to Objectively Evaluate Student Assignments ,” “a rubric that lists the specific requirements needed to master the assignment helps educators provide clear and concise expectations to students, stay focused on whether those requirements have been met, and then communicate how well they were met.” Using rubric and assessment programs offers the following benefits for educators:

• Electronically link rubrics to learning objectives and outcomes or accreditation standards.
• Generate comprehensive reports on student or class performance.
• Share assessment data with students to improve self-assessment.
• Gain a more complete understanding of student performance, no matter the evaluation method.

Ultimately, employing rubric and assessment software gives both instructors and students a clearer picture of exam performance as it pertains to specific assignments or learning outcomes. This knowledge is instrumental to educators’ attempt to improve teaching methods, exam creation, grading — and students’ ability to refine their study habits.

Creating objective assessments will always be an important aspect of an educator’s job. Using all the tools at their disposal is the most effective way to ensure that all assessments objectively measure what students have learned, even when the content is subjective.

Learn more about ExamSoft’s rubric solution .

EnglishPost.org: What Are Subjective and Objective Tests?

Edulytic: Importance of Objective Assessment

Carnegie Mellon University: Creating Exams

ExamSoft: How to Objectively Evaluate Student Assignments

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