Why it’s Always Important to Support Statements of Fact

Dear Student,

One of the main challenges we often note when we paraphrase, edit, or proofread writing from university students at all levels is the failure to support statements of fact. This is a challenge that could make your writing weaker and lead to a substantial loss of marks.

So, today we will focus on why you need to support all your statements of fact.

What is a Statement of Fact?

In an academic paper, dissertation, or thesis, a statement of fact is a claim that can be proven. For example, if you say that the population of England was 55.98 million in 2018, you are making a statement of fact.

Another statement of fact is that gene mutations cause cancer.

In academic writing, you cannot just present these statements without indicating a credible source of information.

You need to identify the source whenever you write a statement that is not your own observation or interpretation of the evidence you have gathered. You don’t need sources when you analyse these statements, though, because the analysis is your own reading of the statements or observations you have made.

What to Do
The University of New England has some great tips on ensuring that all your academic work is appropriately supported by credible evidence:

  • Never use information based on your common sense unless it is supported by credible sources, research, or direct observation.
  • Do not use material with no academic authority, such as social media posts or popular magazines.
  • Avoid using your lecture notes as the only source of authority, even if such notes are correctly referenced.

Always check the guidelines to ensure you reference your sources using the correct referencing convention.

Find Help
Identifying statements of fact in a paper can be challenging, particularly for new students. This is why we at Virtual English Teacher will proofread, paraphrase, or edit your essay to ensure that every statement of fact is supported not just by any source but by a credible source.

However, it’s vital to state that we don’t look for sources on behalf of students. We will leave a comment in your paper indicating that you need to support a statement you have made.

Want proof of our effectiveness and efficiency. Ask for a free, no-obligation sample of your text.
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