How can one distinguish between paranormal and science fiction stories easily?

Check for elements like real - world references. Nonfiction will often mention real places, people, and events that can be verified. Fiction might create fictional locations or use real - world names in a made - up context. For example, a nonfiction book about a city will give accurate details about its geography and history, while a fictional story set in that city might add magical elements that don't exist in reality.

Look at the content. If it has made - up characters and events that couldn't happen in real life, it's probably fiction. If it's about real people, places, or events, it's nonfiction.

Look for evidence. Facts usually have some sort of proof behind them, like statistics or eyewitness accounts. Fiction doesn't have this kind of real - world evidence. Also, facts are often presented in a more straightforward, non - imaginative way compared to the creative and often far - fetched nature of fiction.

Pay attention to the consistency. Reality generally follows certain rules and laws. In fiction, the author can break these rules. For instance, in a fantasy novel, magic might be used to defy the laws of physics. But in the real world, we know that such things don't happen without scientific explanation. Also, the language used in non - fictional works is often more matter - of - fact, while in fiction, the language can be more creative and flowery.

Look at the setting. If it's a world with magic and mythical beings, it's fantasy. If it's a future world with a lot of problems due to society or technology, it could be dystopian or science fiction. Dystopian will have a more negative and oppressive feel, while science fiction might be more about exploring new ideas. For example, a story with dragons is fantasy, a story about a totalitarian future is dystopian, and a story about colonizing Mars is science fiction.

Look at the plot. If there are elements like magic, talking animals, or gods intervening, it's likely a folktale. If the plot revolves around everyday life situations like going to work, having family arguments, or dealing with school, it's probably realistic fiction.

Look at the cover or the blurb. If it mentions something like 'based on a true story', it's likely nonfiction. If it has elements like 'a world of magic' or 'fictional characters', it's probably fiction.

One easy way is to look at the sources. If a novel cites a lot of real - world references, research, and historical data, it's likely nonfiction. For example, if it mentions specific historical documents or interviews with real people. Fiction usually doesn't have such real - world sourcing. Another way is to check if the characters are real - life figures. If they are, it could be nonfiction, but if they are made - up names, it's probably fiction.

Check the sources. Fact books usually cite their sources at the end or throughout the text. Fiction books don't need to do this as they are creating their own stories. Also, the language can be a clue. Fact books use more objective language, while fiction books may have more flowery and emotional language to draw you into the story.

One easy way is to look at the cover or the book description. If it mentions real - life events, people, or topics like history or science, it's likely nonfiction. If it has elements like magic, made - up characters in a fictional world, it's probably fiction.