Writing an Analysis

What is a Critical Analysis?

 A critical analysis examines how well the author has
achieved his or her purpose and considers the
validity or significance of the author’s information.
 In order to analyze/critique a text, you need to
read it closely and critically.
 Most academic critiques take the form of an essay
and contain elements of summary, analysis and
evaluation.
What is a Critical Analysis?
When writing a critical analysis,
you will
Think independently

Research what is said and break that information

apart to appraise the nature of those parts and
their relationships

Describe and support your thinking on a specific topic

in a persuasive manner
Your critical analysis will generally
 Have a narrow topic
 Choose considerations to focus on such as
 Political

 Legal

 Social

 Historical

 Ethical

 Aesthetic

 Economic
You may wish to focus on
 Tone
 Context
 Structure
 Argument
 Rhetorical style (ethos, pathos, logos)
 Word choice (diction)
 Implied audience
Analysis Questions
 what is the relationship between …?
 what is the similarity or difference between…?
 how does ...apply to ...?
 what is (are) the problems or conflicts or issues...?
what are possible solutions/ resolutions to these
problems or conflicts or issues...?
 what is the main argument or thesis of...?
 how is this argument developed...?
 what evidence, proof or support is offered...? what
are other theories/arguments from other authors...?
Analysis Questions
 how...?
 why...?
 what are the reasons for...?
 what are the types of...?
 what are the functions of...?
 what is the process of...?
 what are other examples of...?
 what are the causes/ results of...?
Evaluation Questions
 is...good or bad...? .....correct or incorrect...?
.....effective or ineffective...?
 .....relevant or irrelevant...?
 .....clear or unclear...?
 .....logical or illogical...?
 .....applicable or not applicable...?
 .....proven or not proven...?
 .....ethical or unethical...?
 what are the advantages or disadvantages of...?
Evaluation Questions cont.
 what are the pros or cons of...?
 what is the best solution to the problem / conflict /
issue...?
 what should or should not happen...?
 do I agree or disagree ...?
 what is my opinion...?
 what is my support for my opinion...?
 How does it compare to…?
Parts of an Essay

1. Introduction
1. Thesis
2. Major Point # 1
3. Major Point # 2
4. Major Point # 3
5. Conclusion