How to Write a Critical Analysis

"Take a position, state it clearly, and develop it forcefully."
The steps below are only in a suggested order. Please adapt these directions to fit your
individual writing style and needs.

1. Prepare by reading all material thoroughly and thinking about some of the different issues raised in your reading.

2. Select one of the ideas, which has lingered in your mind because you disagree or
are uncomfortable with it, or because you agree with it but believe it needs much
more thought.

3. Consider a question about this lingering idea that you might want to investigate in
your paper. Ask yourself what your feelings are about this issue, and what
reasons you might use to support your feelings. If you like what you have come
up with then you are ready to form a preliminary thesis. If you do not like it then
go back and consider another question from your reading.
What are some of the responsibilities of media journalists? (idea)
I feel like these journalists have been really irresponsible. (feelings)
trivial topics -- coverage of all the negative stuff -- exploitation of peoples' lives
(reasons)

4. Jot down a preliminary thesis statement that names your topic, asserts your ideas
about this topic, and suggests the arrangement of your paper's argument.
Subject (idea) Assertion (feelings) Arrangement(reasons)
Media journalism has sunken to the lowest depths possible by assuming a public
lack of interest in serious news, sensationalizing the evil of our society while
ignoring the good, and creating media events out of what should be small private
tragedies.

5. Go back to the reading and pull out details that support your arguments. Assume
your reader is familiar with the reading material. Any quotations or references to
the text should be used only to support your viewpoint.

6. Write your first draft.

7. Think of further refinements to your argument as you let your rough draft sit for a
couple of days.

8. Create your masterpiece -- a well designed and organized critical analysis.

Still not sure how to write? Get custom essay help now!

Here Are 2 Excellent After Sales Features...