Which phrase best signals that a claim is supported by data rather than opinion?

Which phrase best signals that a claim is supported by data rather than opinion?

• A. Impersonal language and data-driven statements.
• B. Personal anecdotes and beliefs.
• C. Vague assertions.
• D. Official-sounding language without evidence.

Answer: (A)

When a claim is supported by data, the writing uses impersonal language and data-driven statements. The impersonal tone—avoiding first-person pronouns—paired with numbers, statistics, charts, or cited evidence shows the claim rests on observable information rather than personal viewpoint. Personal anecdotes and beliefs signal opinion, not data. Vague assertions lack concrete backing and leave the basis of the claim unclear. Official-sounding language without evidence can be persuasive but doesn’t prove the claim. So, the phrase that best signals data support is impersonal language and data-driven statements.

When a claim is supported by data, the writing uses impersonal language and data-driven statements. The impersonal tone—avoiding first-person pronouns—paired with numbers, statistics, charts, or cited evidence shows the claim rests on observable information rather than personal viewpoint. Personal anecdotes and beliefs signal opinion, not data. Vague assertions lack concrete backing and leave the basis of the claim unclear. Official-sounding language without evidence can be persuasive but doesn’t prove the claim. So, the phrase that best signals data support is impersonal language and data-driven statements.