There are a few ways to attempt to distinguish, but it's not foolproof. First, look for consistency in the story over time. If it has been told the same way for many years, it could potentially have some truth. Second, check for any physical evidence, although this is rare in ghost stories. Third, see if there are any psychological factors that could explain the story, such as fear or suggestion. However, even with all these considerations, it's still very hard to be certain if a ghost story is real or not. Ghosts, if they exist, operate outside the realm of normal scientific understanding, so it's challenging to prove or disprove their existence based on a story.
Look for evidence. If a story claims to be a fact, there should be some sort of scientific or reliable eyewitness evidence. For example, if it's a story about a new species, there should be specimens or at least clear photos. If not, it's more likely fiction.
You can check historical sources. If the story on 'Drunk History' mentions a well - known historical event, like the signing of the Declaration of Independence, you can look it up in reliable history books or online historical archives. If the basic details match, it's likely a fact.
By looking at reliable sources like official church statements and historical records. If a story isn't backed by these, it's likely fiction.
Look at the cover and title. If it has words like 'history', 'biography', or 'science' it's likely a fact book. Fiction books often have more creative or fantastical titles. Also, check the blurb. Fact books will usually talk about real things or events in the blurb, while fiction will introduce fictional characters and a made - up plot.
One way is to cross - reference with other reliable historical sources. If multiple respected sources confirm the information, it's likely a fact. For example, if a statement about a president's policy is also found in several well - known history books, it's probably true. If it's only in one unsubstantiated source, it could be fiction.
One way is to look at the source of the fact. If it comes from a reliable and long - lasting source like a historical archive, it might have a long lifespan. For example, facts from ancient manuscripts can still be considered valid today. Another factor is the context of the real story. If the story is about a quickly evolving field, like technology, the facts may change faster and have a shorter lifespan.
Sometimes, the title can give you a clue. If it has words like 'History of', 'Biography of' or 'Study of', it's likely a fact book. Fiction titles are often more creative and may hint at a made - up story, like 'The Lord of the Rings'.
Research is key. Look into historical records about the events and people shown in the series. Compare what's on the screen with what's documented in reliable sources.
Look at the characters. If a character is a well - known figure in real - life drug - trafficking history, like Pablo Escobar, then the main aspects of his actions are probably based on fact. But if a character seems to be there just to move the plot along and has no real - world counterpart, it's likely fictional. Also, the way characters are portrayed in terms of their personalities can be a mix of fact and fiction. Some traits might be exaggerated for the show.
You can tell the Jungle Doctor books are fiction. First, the characters are fictional. There is no real - life 'Jungle Doctor' out there exactly as described in the books. Second, the events are too much like fictional tales. The situations the doctor gets into, like facing strange and often exaggerated jungle perils, are not typical of real - life medical work in the jungle. Fiction allows for this kind of exaggeration and creative storytelling, which is exactly what these books do.