is an essay objective or subjective

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Subjective vs. Objective: What's the Difference?

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.

Remember to always reference information like this. ProWritingAid’s Plagiarism Checker can ensure that you never inadvertently pass off someone else’s work as your own.

Find out more about Plagiarism Checks.

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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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”: 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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• Key Differences

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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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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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So, you need to accomplish your discursive essay writing. The typical questions most students ask are: How do you write it? What is discursive essay? A discursive essay is an academic paper that involves a discussion on a particular topic. It is usually assigned to college students. You may be...

How to write a narrative essay? To do that, you need to know what a narrative essay is. It is an academic text usually written as a story and containing all the usual elements of a story. Narrative essays are often personal, experiential, and creative. Still, they should be made...

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Subjective and reflective.

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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.

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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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What is Objective Writing? Why Neutral Language Matters

What is objective writing? Master the skill of delivering unbiased information effectively with proven techniques and examples.

In today’s world, the way we present ideas and data can shape opinions, influence decisions, and impact the world around us. One of the most important principles of communication is objectivity. Objective writing is writing that presents information in a neutral and unbiased way. This means avoiding personal opinions, beliefs, or biases. It also means avoiding using emotional language or making subjective statements. Objective writing is typically clearer and easier to understand than subjective writing. It is also seen as more credible and trustworthy. This is because readers know that the writer is not trying to persuade them or influence their opinions.

Related article: Mastering Critical Reading: Uncover The Art Of Analyzing Texts

In a world where there is so much information available, it is more important than ever to be able to distinguish between objective and subjective writing. Objective writing is essential for fostering critical thinking and making informed decisions. This article will explore the importance of objective writing and its role in communication. We will look at how objective writing can be used to foster credibility, deliver accurate information, and promote critical thinking.

What Is Objective Writing?

Objective writing is a style of writing that presents information in a neutral and unbiased manner, without expressing personal opinions, emotions, or beliefs. The primary goal of objective writing is to provide facts, evidence, and logical reasoning to inform the reader without trying to persuade or influence their opinion.

About the question “What is objective writing?”, the author, in this kind of writing, strives to eliminate any potential bias, avoid making value judgments, and maintain a professional and impartial tone. This type of writing is commonly used in news reporting, scientific research papers, academic essays , and other forms of non-fiction writing.

Benefits Of Writing Objectively

Clarity and Understanding: Objective writing presents information in a clear and unbiased manner, allowing readers to conceive the facts without being influenced by the writer’s personal opinions or emotions. This promotes a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

Credibility and Trustworthiness: Objective writing enhances the credibility of the writer and the content. When information is presented without bias, readers are more likely to trust the accuracy and reliability of the material.

Unbiased Evaluation: Objectivity enables fair evaluation of different viewpoints, arguments, and evidence. It allows readers to form their own opinions based on the presented facts, rather than being persuaded by the writer’s subjective views.

Professionalism in Academic and Formal Writing: In academic and formal settings, objective writing is expected as it upholds the standards of professionalism and integrity in research, essays, and reports.

Conflict Resolution: Objective writing is particularly valuable in discussions and debates, as it helps to reduce conflicts by focusing on facts rather than personal feelings or biases.

Avoiding Stereotypes and Prejudices: Writing objectively helps to avoid reinforcing stereotypes and prejudices, promoting a more inclusive and open-minded perspective.

Enhanced Critical Thinking: By analyzing information objectively, writers and readers can engage in deeper critical thinking, questioning assumptions, and considering alternative viewpoints.

Appropriate in Scientific and Technical Fields: In scientific and technical writing, objectivity is essential to maintain the accuracy and validity of research findings and technical information.

Global Audience Accessibility: Objective writing is more accessible to a diverse global audience, as it transcends cultural and individual differences, making the content relevant to a broader readership.

Ethical Reporting: Journalists and reporters strive for objectivity in their news reporting to provide unbiased and truthful information to the public, upholding ethical standards in journalism.

Overall, writing objectively fosters transparency, fairness, and respect for differing perspectives, contributing to more informed, trustworthy, and inclusive communication.

Subjectivity Writing

Subjectivity and objectivity are two fundamental aspects of writing that influence how information is presented and perceived. Subjectivity refers to the presence of personal opinions, feelings, and biases in writing. It involves the writer’s perspective, emotions, and interpretations, which can impact how they convey information to the reader.

What Is Subjective Writing?

Subjective writing is a style of writing where the author expresses their personal opinions, emotions, and viewpoints on a particular subject. In subjective writing, the author’s feelings, beliefs, and individual experiences play a significant role in shaping the content. This type of writing often uses first-person pronouns, such as “I” or “we,” and employs emotional language to convey the author’s thoughts and emotions.

Subjective writing is prevalent in creative writing, personal essays, memoirs, and certain types of journalistic pieces, such as opinion columns or editorials. It allows writers to connect with the reader on a more personal level, sharing their unique perspectives and inviting the audience to empathize with their point of view.

The Difference Between Objective And Subjective Writing

It’s essential to recognize that both objective and subjective writing have their place in various contexts. Objective writing provides factual information and encourages critical thinking, while subjective writing allows for self-expression and emotional engagement. The choice between the two depends on the writer’s intentions, the subject matter, and the target audience.

Understanding the difference between objective and subjective writing enables writers to choose the appropriate style based on their intended purpose and the expectations of their audience. It also empowers readers to identify when they are encountering subjective content and approach it with a discerning mindset, acknowledging the presence of the author’s perspective.

Elements Of Objective Writing

Objective writing is characterized by its neutral and unbiased approach to presenting information. Writers strive to eliminate personal biases and emotions, focusing on factual accuracy and logical reasoning. Several key elements contribute to achieving objectivity in writing:

Avoiding Personal Pronouns

Objective writing minimizes the use of personal pronouns like “I,” “we,” or “you.” By avoiding these pronouns, the writer maintains a level of distance between themselves and the content, making it less likely for their personal opinions or biases to influence the information presented. Instead of writing, “I believe that,” or “In my opinion,” the objective writer would present the information without explicitly inserting themselves into the narrative. For example, “According to research,” or “Studies indicate that.”

Focusing On Facts, Not Emotions Or Opinions

Objective writing prioritizes the presentation of verifiable facts, evidence, and data over personal emotions or opinions. The writer should refrain from using emotionally charged language or expressing their feelings about the subject matter. Instead, they rely on evidence-based information to support their claims. When presenting an argument or discussing a topic, the focus is on logical reasoning and empirical support rather than emotional persuasion.

Using An Active Voice And Ergative Verbs

The active voice is preferred in objective writing because it clearly identifies the subject and the action they are performing. This contributes to clarity and directness in the writing. In contrast, the passive voice can sometimes be used to obscure responsibility or agency, potentially leading to less objective writing. Ergative verbs, which don’t require an object to complete their meaning, can also help make sentences more concise and focused.

Example (Active Voice): “The committee made the decision.” Example (Passive Voice): “The decision was made by the committee.”

Referencing Sources For Evidence And Support

Objective writing relies heavily on evidence and support from reputable sources. By referencing and citing authoritative works, research studies, experts, and reliable data, the writer reinforces the credibility of their writing. These citations also allow readers to verify the information independently, adding transparency and accountability to the content.

Maintaining A Neutral Tone In The Writing

A neutral tone is crucial in objective writing. The language used should be professional, impartial, and devoid of emotional bias. The writer should avoid overly positive or negative language that could sway the reader’s perception. Instead, the content should present information objectively, allowing the readers to draw their conclusions based on the facts and evidence provided.

Example (Neutral Tone): “The study findings suggest a correlation between X and Y, according to the researchers’ analysis.”

Common Examples Of Objective Writing

Objective writing fosters transparency, credibility, and the dissemination of reliable information across various domains, contributing to an informed and knowledgeable society. This type of writing has distinct purposes: ensuring clear communication in instruction manuals, providing unbiased information in news reporting, and maintaining scientific rigor in natural science reports. 

Instruction Manual

Instruction manuals are a classic example of objective writing. These documents provide step-by-step guidance on how to use a product or perform a specific task. Objective writing in instruction manuals focuses on clarity, precision, and neutrality. It avoids subjective language and personal opinions, instead using concise and straightforward language to ensure readers can follow the instructions accurately. The emphasis is on providing clear directions and information, leaving no room for ambiguity or misinterpretation.

Example (Objective Writing in an Instruction Manual): “Insert the round end of the cable into the designated port until you hear a click.”

News Reporting

News reporting is one of the primary domains where objective writing is crucial. Journalists aim to present news stories in a fair, accurate, and unbiased manner. Objective news articles provide the who, what, where, when, why, and how of an event without injecting personal opinions or emotions. They rely on credible sources, facts, and verified information to inform the public objectively. While opinion pieces and editorials allow for subjectivity, standard news reporting adheres to objective principles.

Example (Objective News Reporting): “In a press conference today, the Prime Minister announced new economic measures to address unemployment. The plan includes tax incentives for businesses and increased funding for job training programs.”

Natural Science Reports

Objective writing is a fundamental aspect of scientific reports, particularly in the field of natural sciences. Scientific reports present research findings, experiments, and observations without personal bias or emotional influence. The language used is precise and technical, and statements are supported by empirical evidence and data. Objectivity ensures that other researchers can replicate experiments and validate the conclusions, promoting the advancement of scientific knowledge.

Example (Objective Writing in a Natural Science Report): “The results of the study show a significant correlation between the increase in temperature and the rate of plant growth. The experiment was conducted over a three-month period, and the data were collected and analyzed using standard statistical methods.”

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Writing objectively How and when to use an impersonal tone

For another look at the same content, check out the video on YouTube (also available on Youku ). There is a worksheet (with answers and teacher's notes) for this video.

Academic writing is generally impersonal and objective in tone. This section considers what objective writing is , how objective academic writing is , then presents several ways to make your writing more objective . There is also an academic article , to show authentic examples of objective language, and a checklist at the end, that you can use to check the objectivity of your own writing.

What is objective writing?

Objective writing places the emphasis on facts, information and arguments, and can be contrasted with subjective writing which relates to personal feelings and biases. Objective writing uses third person pronouns (it, he, she, they), in contrast to subjective writing which uses first person pronouns (I, we) or second person pronoun (you).

How objective is academic writing?

Although many academic writers believe that objectivity is an essential feature of academic writing, conventions are changing and how much this is true depends on the subject of study. An objective, impersonal tone remains essential in the natural sciences (chemistry, biology, physics), which deal with quantitative (i.e. numerical) methods and data. In such subjects, the research is written from the perspective of an impartial observer, who has no emotional connection to the research. Use of a more subjective tone is increasingly acceptable in areas such as naturalist research, business, management, literary studies, theology and philosophical writing, which tend to make greater use of qualitative rather than quantitative data. Reflective writing is increasingly used on university courses and is highly subjective in nature.

How to write objectively

There are many aspects of writing which contribute to an objective tone. The following are some of the main ones.

Use passive

Objective tone is most often connected with the use of passive, which removes the actor from the sentence. For example:

• The experiment was conducted.
• I conducted the experiment.
• The length of the string was measured using a ruler.
• I measured the length of the string with a ruler.

Most academic writers agree that passive should not be overused, and it is generally preferrable for writing to use the active instead, though this is not always possible if the tone is to remain impersonal without use of I or other pronouns. There is, however, a special group of verbs in English called ergative verbs , which are used in the active voice without the actor of the sentence. Examples are dissolve, increase, decrease, lower, and start . For example:

• The white powder dissolved in the liquid.
• I dissolved the white powder in the liquid.
• The white powder was dissolved in the liquid.
• The tax rate increased in 2010.
• We increased the tax rate in 2010.
• The tax rate was increased in 2010.
• The building work started six months ago.
• The workers started the building work six months ago.
• The building work was started six months ago.

Focus on the evidence

Another way to use active voice while remaining objective is to focus on the evidence, and make this the subject of the sentence. For example:

• The findings show...
• The data illustrate...
• The graph displays...
• The literature indicates...

Use evidence from sources

Evidence from sources is a common feature of objective academic writing. This generally uses the third person active. For example:

• Newbold (2021) shows that... He further demonstrates the relationship between...
• Greene and Atwood (2013) suggest that...

Use impersonal constructions

Impersonal constructions with It and There are common ways to write objectively. These structures are often used with hedges (to soften the information) and boosters (to strengthen it) . This kind of language allows the writer to show how strongly they feel about the information, without using emotive language, which should be avoided in academic writing.

• It is clear that... (booster)
• It appears that... (hedge)
• I believe that...
• There are three reasons for this.
• I have identified three reasons for this.
• There are several disadvantages of this approach.
• This is a terrible idea.

Personify the writing

Another way to write objectively is to personify the writing (essay, report, etc.) and make this the subject of the sentence.

• This essay considers the role of diesel emissions in global warming.
• I will discuss the role of diesel emissions in global warming.
• This report has shown that...
• I have shown that...

In short, objective writing means focusing on the information and evidence. While it remains a common feature of academic writing, especially in natural sciences, a subjective tone is increasingly acceptable in fields which make use of qualitative data, as well as in reflective writing. Objectivity in writing can be achieved by:

• using passive;
• focusing on the evidence ( The findings show... );
• referring to sources ( Newbold (2021) shows... );
• using impersonal constructions with It and There ;
• using hedges and boosters to show strength of feeling, rather than emotive language;
• personifying the writing ( This report shows... ).

Bailey, S. (2000). Academic Writing. Abingdon: RoutledgeFalmer

Bennett, K. (2009) 'English academic style manuals: A survey', Journal of English for Academic Purposes , 8 (2009) 43-54.

Cottrell, S. (2013). The Study Skills Handbook (4th ed.) , Basingstoke: Palgrave MacMillan.

Hinkel, E. (2004). Teaching Academic ESL Writing: Practical Techniques in Vocabulary and Grammar . Mahwah: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates Inc Publishers.

Hyland, K. (2006) English for Academic Purposes: An advanced resource book . Abingdon: Routledge.

Jordan, R. R. (1997) English for academic purposes: A guide and resource book for teachers . Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

Example article

Below is an authentic academic article. It has been abbreviated by using the abstract and extracts from the article; however, the language is unchanged from the original. Click on the different areas (in the shaded boxes) to highlight the different objective features.

Title: Obesity bias and stigma, attitudes and beliefs among entry-level physiotherapy students in the Republic of Ireland: a cross sectional study. Source: : https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0031940621000353

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Below is a checklist for using objectivity in academic writing. Use it to check your writing, or as a peer to help. Note: you do not need to use all the ways given here.

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Author: Sheldon Smith    ‖    Last modified: 05 February 2024.

Sheldon Smith is the founder and editor of EAPFoundation.com. He has been teaching English for Academic Purposes since 2004. Find out more about him in the about section and connect with him on Twitter , Facebook and LinkedIn .

Compare & contrast essays examine the similarities of two or more objects, and the differences.

Cause & effect essays consider the reasons (or causes) for something, then discuss the results (or effects).

Discussion essays require you to examine both sides of a situation and to conclude by saying which side you favour.

Problem-solution essays are a sub-type of SPSE essays (Situation, Problem, Solution, Evaluation).

Transition signals are useful in achieving good cohesion and coherence in your writing.

Reporting verbs are used to link your in-text citations to the information cited.

Objectivity vs. Subjectivity Analytical Essay

Introduction, possibility of being completely objective, importance of intelligence to the intelligence community, objectivity and subjectivity, works cited.

People have the ability to choose between objectivity and subjectivity. Objectivity refers to the ability to judge issues from a personal perspective. Objective thinkers see beyond what other people say. According to Pillar, objectivity is intelligence because it provides room for rational thinking and reasoning beyond the ordinary (par. 2). On the other hand, subjective thinkers merely rely on the reasoning of scholars and experts in various fields.

For instance, the fact that the sun rises from the East and settles in the West is a subjective reason. In essence, it is impossible for people to reason beyond the ordinary. Subjectivism does not incorporate logic or intelligence. This paper intends to discuss the possibility that people could be completely objective in thinking.

Social scientists explain that it is impossible to attain objectivity. People constantly look for knowledge in both primary and secondary sources. Research can never end, and this explains why it is impossible to be completely objective. Individuals will often criticize materials generated by social scientists and this explains how intelligence seeks proof from policies. Seeking intelligence is a natural process that signifies objective reasoning.

It occurs in a cyclic manner and can never come to a possible conclusion. Kahneman and Tversky argued that people would often distort the world due to their overconfidence in explaining things. Most of them do not have solutions to the problem, but through collective efforts and using intelligence, people could find credible answers to various situations (Kahneman 15). In essence, intelligence has no limits.

Objectivity should be a vital trait for the intelligence community since they have to create a connection between different aspects in life. They include crime, politics, education, and culture. The intelligence unit demands complete commitment from objective individuals. In most cases, they could apprehend an innocent person without assessing other possibilities. Intelligence creates a boundary between propaganda, public relations, and sentiments from normal political rallies.

Without objectivity, it would be impossible to assess the intelligence of such experts while in the field (Ehrman et al. 7). The intelligence community comprises of people from different socioeconomic backgrounds. Most of them view ideologies differently, as nature and nurture most of them dissimilarly.

Objective and subjective reasoning apply to different people in the society. Besides politics, religion raises many questions among populations. Faith is a personal decision since in the society atheists exist. They do not believe in any religion because they have personal ideologies against this concept. Certain individuals advocate for Protestantism while others purely focus on Catholicism. Eastern religions equally play a significant role in the society, especially Buddhism.

Some people question the ideologies or policies of certain religions. This happens when they want to join the sect, or when they want to criticize it. On the other hand, many people belong to no religion because after assessing most religions, they find atheism as the most appealing option. Religions have different traditions that their inventors formulate. Other people do not question religions since they uphold a subjective thought process (Ehrman et al. 22).

Most of these individuals embrace religions that their predecessors initiated. Others blindly follow religious ideologies because their societies support such religions. Today, countless religious beliefs exist and people follow the ones they find comfortable. From this perspective, objectivity and subjectivity strongly apply in religious settings. Objectivity has to exist because people have the freedom of worship. On the other hand, subjectivity prevails because conservative communities exist.

Experts equate objectivity to intelligence since people often strive to reach the highest level of intelligence that they cannot achieve. When an expert develops an idea, people will generate different opinions and fallacies to challenge such reasoning. People are naturally different and intelligence is inherent to an individual. This offers the ability to object or support certain ideologies in the society.

Ehrman, John, Hayden Peake, Martin Petersen, and Igor Lukes. “Studies in Intelligence.” Journal of the American Intelligence Professional 55.1 (2011): 1-50. Print.

Kahneman, Daniel. “Two Brains Running.” The New York Times 25 Nov. 2011: 12-17. Print.

Pillar, Paul R.. Chapter 29: The Perils of Politicization, UC Irvine: School of Social Sciences . N.p., 3 Mar. 2010. Web.

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IvyPanda. (2019, June 11). Objectivity vs. Subjectivity. https://ivypanda.com/essays/objectivity-vs-subjectivity/

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Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Objectivity vs. Subjectivity." June 11, 2019. https://ivypanda.com/essays/objectivity-vs-subjectivity/.

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The difference between subjective and objective assessments

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Understanding subjective and objective assessments, and the difference between the two, is central to designing effective exams. Educators need a strong understanding of both types to accurately assess student learning. Each of these styles has specific attributes that make them better suited for certain subjects and learning outcomes. Knowing when to use subjective instead of objective assessments, and vice versa, as well as identifying resources that can help increase the overall fairness of exams, is essential to educators’ efforts in accurately gauging the academic progress of their students.

Let’s take a closer look at subjective and objective assessments, how they are measured, and the ways in which they can be used effectively to evaluate student knowledge.

According to EnglishPost.org , “Subjective tests aim to assess areas of students’ performance that are complex and qualitative, using questioning that 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. These include long-form essays, debates, interpretations, definitions of terms, concepts, and events as well as responding to theoretical scenarios, defending opinions, and other responses.

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 [sic] 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

Assessments measure and evaluate student knowledge; to that end, grading is involved with doing so. Just as subjective and objective assessment differ, so do ways in which educators measure them.

Subjective performance measurements are dependent on the observer or grader and involve interpretation. A creative work might be the most clear example for which subjective measurement might apply; while grammar and syntax, of course, are necessary to express ideas, the quality of creative work is subject to human judgment. Opinion essays are also a subjective measurement, as there is no one right answer and are evaluated based on persuasion skills; the flow of logic or writing style, in addition to the content of an answer, can influence a person marking student work.

In brief, subjective measurement involves more than one correct answer and assesses qualitative or analytic thinking.

On the other hand, objective measurement is conducted independent of opinion. One extreme example is feeding a multiple-choice exam into a Scantron machine, which provides zero feedback and simply marks an answer wrong or correct. Even when a human being grades objective assessment and provides feedback, answers are not for interpretation when it comes to objective measurement. Other examples of objective measurement include mathematics problems with one correct answer that is unquestionable and again, independent of the grader’s opinion ( Jackson, retrieved 2023 ).

In sum, objective measurement is implicitly consistent, impartial, and usually quantifiable.

That said, measurement of assessments, whether subjective or objective, is a spectrum.

While a creative work may be graded almost entirely subjectively, a personal or opinion essay, while subjective in nature, may fall towards the middle of the spectrum. An analytical essay, for instance, can offer objective measurements like grammar, structure, primary or secondary sources , and citation. Of course, on the objective end of the spectrum are multiple-choice questions like mathematics problems. But even mathematics can fall towards the middle; for example, when students work on proofs and theorems to demonstrate logic and analytical thinking. In the case of a proof, a grader has to interpret how deeply a student understands the concept and might even grant partial credit.

The word “subjective” has often become a pejorative term when it comes to assessment and grading, while the word “objective” is elevated as a paragon of fairness. But the reality is that both subjective and objective assessments are effective ways to measure learning, when they are designed well and used appropriately.

Subjective and objective assessments are effective when they show reliability and validity .

An assessment is reliable when it consistently measures student learning. Reliability involves the correct answer every time, with no variation from student to student, making scores trustworthy; many standardized tests like those used for licensing or certification, for instance, are deemed highly reliable. In the case of subjective assessment, rubrics can provide increased reliability .

An assessment is valid when it measures what it was intended to measure. Validity accurately measures understanding, whether it is the evaluation of analytic thinking or factual knowledge.

You wouldn’t ask a nursing student to write an opinion essay on differential diagnosis and pharmaceutical treatment; at the same time, you wouldn’t ask graduate students of English literature to answer true/false questions about the works of Shakespeare. Providing the right kind of assessment to assess appropriate levels of knowledge and learning is critical.

The first step towards effective exam design is to consider the purpose of the assessment and uphold validity.

When an instructor wants to measure critical thinking skills, a student’s ability to come up with their own original ideas, or even how they arrived at their response, subjective assessment is the best fit. When an instructor wants to evaluate a student’s knowledge of facts, for instance, objective measurement is called for. Of course, exams can offer a variety of formats to measure both critical thinking and breadth of knowledge; many assessments benefit from the inclusion of both subjective and objective assessment questions. Subjective assessments 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

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

Creating reliable and valid assessments is key to accurately measuring students’ mastery of subject matter. Educators should consider creating a blueprint for their exams to maximize the reliability and validity of their questions. It can be easier to write assessments 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.

Subjectivity often feels like a “bad word” in the world of assessment and grading, but it is not. It just needs to be appropriate–that is, used in the right place and at the right time. In the Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization , researchers Méndez and Jahedi report, “Our results indicate that general subjective measures can effectively capture changes in both the explicit and the implicit components of the variable being measured and, therefore, that they can be better suited for the study of broadly defined concepts than objective measures.” Subjective assessments have a place in presenting knowledge of concepts, particularly in expressing an original opinion, thought, or discourse that does not have a singular answer.

What is “bad,” however, is bias, whether unconscious or conscious, in assessment design or grading. Bias is an unfair partiality for or against something, largely based on opinion and resistance to facts.

Subjective assessments are more vulnerable to bias and it’s important to ensure that the questions address what is supposed to be measured (upholding validity) and that any grader bias is mitigated with rubrics to bolster marking consistency (thereby upholding reliability). Other ways to mitigate bias include grading by question and not by student as well as employing name-blind grading.

Subjective and objective assessment efficacy is influenced by reliability, validity, and bias. Wherever, whenever possible, it is important to bolster reliability (consistency) and validity (accuracy) while reducing bias (unfair partiality). While reliability and validity are upheld during the design and execution of assessments, ensuring that questions align with learning expectations and course content and are fair, bias can interfere with the grading process.

One important, and frequently overlooked, aspect of creating reliable and valid assessments is the manner in which those assessments are scored by removing bias. 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?

• 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 rubrics also increases consistency and decreases time spent grading. (upholds reliability, mitigates bias)
• Name-blind grading is a key component to unbiased grading; by removing the affiliation of the student’s name to the assessment, any question of prejudice is removed. It can be enabled in grading software or via folding down the corner of pages with names on them. (mitigates bias)
• Grading by question instead of by student—grading all of one question first before moving on to the others—makes sure you’re grading to the same standard and not influenced by answers to a previous question ( Aldrich, 2017 ). (upholds reliability, mitigates bias)
• Student data insights can transform grading into learning . By conducting item analysis or, in other words, formally examining student responses and patterns, instructors can pinpoint whether or not assessments are accurately assessing student knowledge. Item analysis is a way for instructors to receive feedback on their instruction and makes learning visible. (upholds validity)
• Offer a variety of assessment formats to include different learning styles and measure different components of learning. Objective assessments like multiple-choice exams can assess a large breadth of knowledge in a short amount of time. Subjective assessments like short- and long-answer questions can test whether or not students have a deep conceptual understanding of subjects by asking students to explain their approach or thinking. Using a combination of formats within the same exam can also bolster reliability and validity. (upholds reliability, upholds validity)
• And finally, consider eliminating grading on a curve ( Calsamiglia & Loviglio, 2019 ). When students are graded on a curve, the act of adjusting student grades so that they’re relative to the grades of their peers, there is an implicit message that students compete with each other—including those who might be cheating. According to research, “moving away from curving sets the expectation that all students have the opportunity to achieve the highest possible grade” ( Schinske & Tanner, 2014 ). (upholds reliability, upholds validity, mitigates bias)

Using assessment tools offer 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 tools like ExamSoft and Gradescope 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 reliable and valid assessments with unbiased measurement 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—whether subjective or objective— accurately measure what students have learned.

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