How can one tell that the story is fiction?

Look at the setting. If it's in a completely made - up world like Middle - earth in 'The Lord of the Rings' (which is fiction), it's not realistic fiction. But if it's set in a real - life city like New York and the events seem like they could happen in our world, it's likely realistic fiction.

Check for real - world references. Nonfiction will often have footnotes, citations, or references to real events, people, or studies. Fiction may create fictional places, like Narnia in C.S. Lewis' books. Also, the narrative style can be a clue. Fiction often has a more dramatic and plot - driven style, while nonfiction is more matter - of - fact.

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.

Check for references. In nonfiction short stories, there may be references to other sources, like books, studies, or real - life accounts. Fiction usually doesn't need such references. Also, if the story is part of a genre known for being fictional, like horror or romance (where the stories are often made up), it's likely fiction. But if it's in a genre like memoir or historical account, it's more likely nonfiction.

One way to tell is by looking at the characters. If they are clearly made - up, like a talking animal or a superhero, it's likely fiction. In nonfiction, the characters are usually real people. Another sign is the setting. A fictional short story might be set in a far - off, magical place that doesn't exist, while a nonfiction one will be set in a real - world location. Also, if there are footnotes or references in the story, it's more likely to be nonfiction.

One way is to research the author. If the author has a background in the field described in the job story, it might be real. For example, if an author who has worked in the medical field writes a story about a doctor's job, it could be based on real experiences. Also, check for consistency. In a real job story, the work processes and hierarchies are likely to be more accurate. In fiction, they can be bent for the sake of the story. For instance, in a fictional job story, a janitor might suddenly be made the CEO overnight just to create a plot twist, which is less likely in a real - life job scenario.

Look for facts. If it mentions real places, real historical events, or real people that can be verified, it might be a true story. Fiction often has elements that are clearly not real, like magic or made - up creatures.

One way to tell is by looking at the story elements. If it has imaginative characters, settings, and events that are not based on real life, it's likely fiction.

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.

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.