Knowing the character or type of information can help you to identify its origin and use. There are several kinds of information that can be useful for different reasons:

Factual Information

• Is a statement of a thing that is done or that exists
• Consists of facts, and a fact is “the statement of a thing done or existing.”
• Short
• Non-explanatory
• Often found in reference materials (e.g. encyclopedias) and in statistical information published by the federal government
• Example: "LIB 120 has been taught for 8 semesters at URI."

Analytical Information

• Is the interpretation of factual information
• Interpretations and analyses of facts: interrelations among, implications of, reasons for
• Usually produced by experts
• Often found in books and periodical articles
• Example: "Looking at grades, SETS and surveys, most students learn to do quality research in this course."

Subjective Information

• Is understood from only one point of view
• Consists of opinions or personal viewpoints
• Often found in books, periodical articles, editorials, reviews
• Example: "I hate spinach!"

Objective Information

• Is understood by reviewing many different points of view
• Consists of non-judgmental and balanced reporting
• Presents all sides of a topic
• Found in encyclopedias, news articles
• Example: "I understand that many people do not like spinach."