analysis academic essay

33 Critical Analysis Examples

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

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critical analysis examples and definition, explained below

Critical analysis refers to the ability to examine something in detail in preparation to make an evaluation or judgment.

It will involve exploring underlying assumptions, theories, arguments, evidence, logic, biases, contextual factors, and so forth, that could help shed more light on the topic.

In essay writing, a critical analysis essay will involve using a range of analytical skills to explore a topic, such as:

Evaluating sources
Exploring strengths and weaknesses
Exploring pros and cons
Questioning and challenging ideas
Comparing and contrasting ideas

If you’re writing an essay, you could also watch my guide on how to write a critical analysis essay below, and don’t forget to grab your worksheets and critical analysis essay plan to save yourself a ton of time:

Grab your Critical Analysis Worksheets and Essay Plan Here

Critical Analysis Examples

1. exploring strengths and weaknesses.

Perhaps the first and most straightforward method of critical analysis is to create a simple strengths-vs-weaknesses comparison.

Most things have both strengths and weaknesses – you could even do this for yourself! What are your strengths? Maybe you’re kind or good at sports or good with children. What are your weaknesses? Maybe you struggle with essay writing or concentration.

If you can analyze your own strengths and weaknesses, then you understand the concept. What might be the strengths and weaknesses of the idea you’re hoping to critically analyze?

Strengths and weaknesses could include:

Does it seem highly ethical (strength) or could it be more ethical (weakness)?
Is it clearly explained (strength) or complex and lacking logical structure (weakness)?
Does it seem balanced (strength) or biased (weakness)?

You may consider using a SWOT analysis for this step. I’ve provided a SWOT analysis guide here .

2. Evaluating Sources

Evaluation of sources refers to looking at whether a source is reliable or unreliable.

This is a fundamental media literacy skill .

Steps involved in evaluating sources include asking questions like:

Who is the author and are they trustworthy?
Is this written by an expert?
Is this sufficiently reviewed by an expert?
Is this published in a trustworthy publication?
Are the arguments sound or common sense?

For more on this topic, I’d recommend my detailed guide on digital literacy .

3. Identifying Similarities

Identifying similarities encompasses the act of drawing parallels between elements, concepts, or issues.

In critical analysis, it’s common to compare a given article, idea, or theory to another one. In this way, you can identify areas in which they are alike.

Determining similarities can be a challenge, but it’s an intellectual exercise that fosters a greater understanding of the aspects you’re studying. This step often calls for a careful reading and note-taking to highlight matching information, points of view, arguments or even suggested solutions.

Similarities might be found in:

The key themes or topics discussed
The theories or principles used
The demographic the work is written for or about
The solutions or recommendations proposed

Remember, the intention of identifying similarities is not to prove one right or wrong. Rather, it sets the foundation for understanding the larger context of your analysis, anchoring your arguments in a broader spectrum of ideas.

Your critical analysis strengthens when you can see the patterns and connections across different works or topics. It fosters a more comprehensive, insightful perspective. And importantly, it is a stepping stone in your analysis journey towards evaluating differences, which is equally imperative and insightful in any analysis.

4. Identifying Differences

Identifying differences involves pinpointing the unique aspects, viewpoints or solutions introduced by the text you’re analyzing. How does it stand out as different from other texts?

To do this, you’ll need to compare this text to another text.

Differences can be revealed in:

The potential applications of each idea
The time, context, or place in which the elements were conceived or implemented
The available evidence each element uses to support its ideas
The perspectives of authors
The conclusions reached

Identifying differences helps to reveal the multiplicity of perspectives and approaches on a given topic. Doing so provides a more in-depth, nuanced understanding of the field or issue you’re exploring.

This deeper understanding can greatly enhance your overall critique of the text you’re looking at. As such, learning to identify both similarities and differences is an essential skill for effective critical analysis.

My favorite tool for identifying similarities and differences is a Venn Diagram:

To use a venn diagram, title each circle for two different texts. Then, place similarities in the overlapping area of the circles, while unique characteristics (differences) of each text in the non-overlapping parts.

6. Identifying Oversights

Identifying oversights entails pointing out what the author missed, overlooked, or neglected in their work.

Almost every written work, no matter the expertise or meticulousness of the author, contains oversights. These omissions can be absent-minded mistakes or gaps in the argument, stemming from a lack of knowledge, foresight, or attentiveness.

Such gaps can be found in:

Missed opportunities to counter or address opposing views
Failure to consider certain relevant aspects or perspectives
Incomplete or insufficient data that leaves the argument weak
Failing to address potential criticism or counter-arguments

By shining a light on these weaknesses, you increase the depth and breadth of your critical analysis. It helps you to estimate the full worth of the text, understand its limitations, and contextualize it within the broader landscape of related work. Ultimately, noticing these oversights helps to make your analysis more balanced and considerate of the full complexity of the topic at hand.

You may notice here that identifying oversights requires you to already have a broad understanding and knowledge of the topic in the first place – so, study up!

7. Fact Checking

Fact-checking refers to the process of meticulously verifying the truth and accuracy of the data, statements, or claims put forward in a text.

Fact-checking serves as the bulwark against misinformation, bias, and unsubstantiated claims. It demands thorough research, resourcefulness, and a keen eye for detail.

Fact-checking goes beyond surface-level assertions:

Examining the validity of the data given
Cross-referencing information with other reliable sources
Scrutinizing references, citations, and sources utilized in the article
Distinguishing between opinion and objectively verifiable truths
Checking for outdated, biased, or unbalanced information

If you identify factual errors, it’s vital to highlight them when critically analyzing the text. But remember, you could also (after careful scrutiny) also highlight that the text appears to be factually correct – that, too, is critical analysis.

8. Exploring Counterexamples

Exploring counterexamples involves searching and presenting instances or cases which contradict the arguments or conclusions presented in a text.

Counterexamples are an effective way to challenge the generalizations, assumptions or conclusions made in an article or theory. They can reveal weaknesses or oversights in the logic or validity of the author’s perspective.

Considerations in counterexample analysis are:

Identifying generalizations made in the text
Seeking examples in academic literature or real-world instances that contradict these generalizations
Assessing the impact of these counterexamples on the validity of the text’s argument or conclusion

Exploring counterexamples enriches your critical analysis by injecting an extra layer of scrutiny, and even doubt, in the text.

By presenting counterexamples, you not only test the resilience and validity of the text but also open up new avenues of discussion and investigation that can further your understanding of the topic.

9. Assessing Methodologies

Assessing methodologies entails examining the techniques, tools, or procedures employed by the author to collect, analyze and present their information.

The accuracy and validity of a text’s conclusions often depend on the credibility and appropriateness of the methodologies used.

Aspects to inspect include:

The appropriateness of the research method for the research question
The adequacy of the sample size
The validity and reliability of data collection instruments
The application of statistical tests and evaluations
The implementation of controls to prevent bias or mitigate its impact

One strategy you could implement here is to consider a range of other methodologies the author could have used. If the author conducted interviews, consider questioning why they didn’t use broad surveys that could have presented more quantitative findings. If they only interviewed people with one perspective, consider questioning why they didn’t interview a wider variety of people, etc.

See Also: A List of Research Methodologies

10. Exploring Alternative Explanations

Exploring alternative explanations refers to the practice of proposing differing or opposing ideas to those put forward in the text.

An underlying assumption in any analysis is that there may be multiple valid perspectives on a single topic. The text you’re analyzing might provide one perspective, but your job is to bring into the light other reasonable explanations or interpretations.

Cultivating alternative explanations often involves:

Formulating hypotheses or theories that differ from those presented in the text
Referring to other established ideas or models that offer a differing viewpoint
Suggesting a new or unique angle to interpret the data or phenomenon discussed in the text

Searching for alternative explanations challenges the authority of a singular narrative or perspective, fostering an environment ripe for intellectual discourse and critical thinking . It nudges you to examine the topic from multiple angles, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of the complexity inherent in the field.

A Full List of Critical Analysis Skills

Exploring Strengths and Weaknesses
Evaluating Sources
Identifying Similarities
Identifying Differences
Identifying Biases
Hypothesis Testing
Fact-Checking
Exploring Counterexamples
Assessing Methodologies
Exploring Alternative Explanations
Pointing Out Contradictions
Challenging the Significance
Cause-And-Effect Analysis
Assessing Generalizability
Highlighting Inconsistencies
Reductio ad Absurdum
Comparing to Expert Testimony
Comparing to Precedent
Reframing the Argument
Pointing Out Fallacies
Questioning the Ethics
Clarifying Definitions
Challenging Assumptions
Exposing Oversimplifications
Highlighting Missing Information
Demonstrating Irrelevance
Assessing Effectiveness
Assessing Trustworthiness
Recognizing Patterns
Differentiating Facts from Opinions
Analyzing Perspectives
Prioritization
Making Predictions
Conducting a SWOT Analysis
PESTLE Analysis
Asking the Five Whys
Correlating Data Points
Finding Anomalies Or Outliers
Comparing to Expert Literature
Drawing Inferences
Assessing Validity & Reliability

Analysis and Bloom’s Taxonomy

Benjamin Bloom placed analysis as the third-highest form of thinking on his ladder of cognitive skills called Bloom’s Taxonomy .

This taxonomy starts with the lowest levels of thinking – remembering and understanding. The further we go up the ladder, the more we reach higher-order thinking skills that demonstrate depth of understanding and knowledge, as outlined below:

Here’s a full outline of the taxonomy in a table format:

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2 thoughts on “33 Critical Analysis Examples”

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU! – I cannot even being to explain how hard it has been to find a simple but in-depth understanding of what ‘Critical Analysis’ is. I have looked at over 10 different pages and went down so many rabbit holes but this is brilliant! I only skimmed through the article but it was already promising, I then went back and read it more in-depth, it just all clicked into place. So thank you again!

You’re welcome – so glad it was helpful.

Academic writing: Writing critically

Learn how to show critical analysis in academic writing and write critically.

Critical analysis

Writing critically, writing a critique (or critical review).

What does the term “critical analysis” mean in the context of academic writing? Showing critical analysis in academic writing could mean:

Demonstrating your understanding of reading/evidence (“this appears to demonstrate that…”; “this implies…”; “this could result in…”).
Showing reasoning and conclusions from your reading/reflections (“therefore…”; “as such…”).
Considering questions such as “why”, “what if” and “so what”.
Showing you understand how different ideas/evidence/perspectives relate to each other (“this is linked to Smith's concept of X…”; Building on Jones (2012), Green (2016) suggests…”).
Demonstrating an understanding of how theories or research apply in your practice/context.
Identifying possible limitations of research/theory and how these relate to your own arguments or own context (“in the context of international development…”; “in terms of learning in the Science classroom…”).
Identifying how something could be interpreted or done differently (in relation to your reading and/or practice).

Criticality?

If you have been told your writing is not critical enough, it probably means that your writing treats the knowledge claims as if they are true, well-supported, and applicable in the context you are writing about. This may not always be the case.

Example extracts from a critical review

In these two examples, the extracts refer to the same section of text. In each example, the section that refers to a source has been highlighted in bold. The note below the example then explains how the writer has used the source material.

Example a: " There is a strong positive effect on students, both educationally and emotionally, when the instructors try to learn to say students' names without making pronunciation errors (Kiang, 2004)". This is a simple paraphrase with no critical comment. It looks like the writer agrees with Kiang. This is not a good example of critical writing, as the writer has not made any critical comment.

Example b: "Kiang (2004) gives various examples to support his claim that 'the positive emotional and educational impact on students is clear' (p.210) when instructors try to pronounce students' names in the correct way. He quotes one student, Nguyet, as saying that he 'felt surprised and happy' (p.211) when the tutor said his name clearly . The emotional effect claimed by Kiang is illustrated in quotes such as these, although the educational impact is supported more indirectly through the chapter. Overall, he provides more examples of students being negatively affected by incorrect pronunciation, and it is difficult to find examples within the text of a positive educational impact as such". The writer describes Kiang's (2004) claim and the examples which he uses to try to support it. The writer then comments that the examples do not seem balanced and may not be enough to support the claims fully. This is a better example of writing which expresses criticality.

A critique (or critical review) is not to be mistaken for a literature review. A “critical review”, or “critique”, is a complete type of text (or genre), discussing one particular article or book in detail. In some instances, you may be asked to write a critique of two or three articles (e.g. a comparative critical review). In contrast, a “literature review”, which also needs to be “critical”, is a part of a larger type of text, such as a chapter of your dissertation. Most importantly: read your article/book as many times as possible, as this will make the critical review much easier.

Read and take notes

To improve your reading confidence and efficiency, visit our pages on reading. After you are familiar with the text, make notes on some of the following questions.

Choose the questions which seem suitable:

What kind of article is it (for example does it present data or does it present purely theoretical arguments)?
What is the main area under discussion?
What are the main findings?
What are the stated limitations?
Where does the author's data and evidence come from? Are they appropriate/sufficient?
What are the main issues raised by the author?
What questions are raised?
How well are these questions addressed?
What are the major points/interpretations made by the author in terms of the issues raised?
Is the text balanced? Is it fair/biased?
Does the author contradict herself?
How does all this relate to other literature on this topic?
How does all this relate to your own experience, ideas and views?
What else has this author written? Do these build/complement this text?
(Optional) Has anyone else reviewed this article? What did they say? Do I agree with them?

Organise your writing

You first need to summarise the text that you have read. One reason to summarise the text is that the reader may not have read the text.

In your summary, you will:

Focus on points within the article that you think are interesting.
Summarise the author(s) main ideas or argument.
Explain how these ideas/argument have been constructed. For example, is the author basing her arguments on data that they have collected? Are the main ideas/argument purely theoretical?

In your summary you might answer the following questions:

Why is this topic important?
Where can this text be located? For example, does it address policy studies?
What other prominent authors also write about this?

Evaluation is the most important part in a critical review. Use the literature to support your views. You may also use your knowledge of conducting research, and your own experience. Evaluation can be explicit or implicit.

Explicit evaluation

Explicit evaluation involves stating directly (explicitly) how you intend to evaluate the text, e.g. "I will review this article by focusing on the following questions. First, I will examine the extent to which the authors contribute to current thought on Second Language Acquisition (SLA) pedagogy. After that, I will analyse whether the authors' propositions are feasible within overseas SLA classrooms."

Implicit evaluation

Implicit evaluation is less direct. The following section on Linguistic features of writing a critical review contains language that evaluates the text. A difficult part of the evaluation of a published text (and a professional author) is how to do this as a student. There is nothing wrong with making your position as a student explicit and incorporating it into your evaluation. Examples of how you might do this can be found in the section on Linguistic features of writing a critical review. You need to remember to locate and analyse the author's argument when you are writing your critical review. For example, you need to locate the authors' view of classroom pedagogy as presented in the book/article and not present a critique of views of classroom pedagogy in general.

Linguistic features of a critical review

The following examples come from published critical reviews. Some of them have been adapted for student use.

Summary language

This article/book is divided into two/three parts. First...
While the title might suggest...
The tone appears to be...
[Title] is the first/second volume in the series [Title], edited by... The books/articles in this series address...
The second/third claim is based on...
The author challenges the notion that...
The author tries to find a more middle ground/make more modest claims...
The article/book begins with a short historical overview of...
Numerous authors have recently suggested that... (see [Author, Year]; [Author, Year]). [Author] would also be one such author. With his/her argument that...
To refer to [Title] as a... is not to say that it is...
This book/article is aimed at... This intended readership...
The author's book/article examines the... To do this, the author first...
The author develops/suggests a theoretical/pedagogical model to…
This book/article positions itself firmly within the field of...
The author in a series of subtle arguments, indicates that he/she...
The argument is therefore...
The author asks "..."
With a purely critical/postmodern take on...
[Topic], as the author points out, can be viewed as...
In this recent contribution to the field of... this British author...
As a leading author in the field of...
This book/article nicely contributes to the field of... and complements other work by this author...
The second/third part of... provides/questions/asks the reader...
[Title] is intended to encourage students/researchers to...
The approach taken by the author provides the opportunity to examine... in a qualitative/quantitative research framework that nicely complements...
The author notes/claims that state support/a focus on pedagogy/the adoption of...remains vital if...
According to [Author, Year] teaching towards examinations is not as effective as it is in other areas of the curriculum. This is because, as [Author, Year] claims that examinations have undue status within the curriculum.
According to [Author, Year]… is not as effective in some areas of the curriculum/syllabus as others. Therefore, the author believes that this is a reason for some schools…

Evaluation language

This argument is not entirely convincing, as...furthermore it commodifies/rationalises the...
Over the last five/10 years the view of... has increasingly been viewed as “complicated” (see [Author, Year]; [Author, Year]).
However, through trying to integrate... with... the author...
There are difficulties with such a position.
Inevitably, several crucial questions are left unanswered/glossed over by this insightful/timely/interesting/stimulating book/article. Why should...
It might have been more relevant for the author to have written this book/article as...
This article/book is not without disappointment from those who would view... as...
This chosen framework enlightens/clouds...
This analysis intends to be... but falls a little short as...
The authors rightly conclude that if...
A detailed, well-written and rigorous account of...
As a Korean student I feel that this article/book very clearly illustrates...
The beginning of... provides an informative overview of...
The tables/figures do little to help/greatly help the reader...
The reaction by scholars who take a... approach might not be so favourable (e.g. Author, Year).
This explanation has a few weaknesses that other researchers have pointed out (see [Author, Year]; [Author, Year]). The first is...
On the other hand, the author wisely suggests/proposes that... By combining these two dimensions...
The author's brief introduction to... may leave the intended reader confused as it fails to properly...
Despite my inability to... I was greatly interested in...
Even where this reader/I disagree(s), the author's effort to...
The author thus combines... with... to argue... which seems quite improbable for a number of reasons. First...
Perhaps this aversion to... would explain the author's reluctance to...
As a second language student from ... I find it slightly ironic that such an Anglo-centric view is...
The reader is rewarded with...
Less convincing is the broad-sweeping generalisation that...
There is no denying the author's subject knowledge nor his/her...
The author's prose is dense and littered with unnecessary jargon...
The author's critique of...might seem harsh but is well supported within the literature (see [Author, Year]; [Author, Year]; [Author, Year]). Aligning herself with the author, [Author, Year] states that...
As it stands, the central focus of [Title] is well/poorly supported by its empirical findings...
Given the hesitation to generalise to... the limitation of... does not seem problematic...
For instance, the term... is never properly defined and the reader is left to guess as to whether...
Furthermore, to label... as... inadvertently misguides...
In addition, this research proves to be timely/especially significant to... as recent government policy/proposals has/have been enacted to...
On this well-researched/documented basis the author emphasises/proposes that...
Nonetheless, other research/scholarship/data tend to counter/contradict this possible trend/assumption... (see [Author, Year]; [Author, Year]).
Without entering into details of the..., it should be stated that [Title] should be read by... others will see little value in...
As experimental conditions were not used in the study the word “significant” misleads the reader.
The article/book becomes repetitious in its assertion that...
The thread of the author's argument becomes lost in an overuse of empirical data...
Almost every argument presented in the final section is largely derivative, providing little to say about...
She/he does not seem to take into consideration; however, that there are fundamental differences in the conditions of…
As [Author, Year] points out, however, it seems to be necessary to look at…
This suggests that having low… does not necessarily indicate that… is ineffective.
Therefore, the suggestion made by [Author, Year]… is difficult to support.
When considering all the data presented… it is not clear that the low scores of some students, indeed, reflect…

Conclusion language

Overall, this article/book is an analytical look at... which within the field of... is often overlooked.
Despite its problems, [Title] offers valuable theoretical insights/interesting examples/a contribution to pedagogy and a starting point for students/researchers of... with an interest in...
This detailed and rigorously argued...
This first/second volume/book/article by... with an interest in... is highly informative...

An important note

We recommend that you do not search for other university guidelines on critical reviews. This is because the expectations may be different at other institutions. Ask your tutor for more guidance or examples if you have further questions.

How To Write an Analytical Essay

If you enjoy exploring topics deeply and thinking creatively, analytical essays could be perfect for you. They involve thorough analysis and clever writing techniques to gain fresh perspectives and deepen your understanding of the subject. In this article, our expert research paper writer will explain what an analytical essay is, how to structure it effectively and provide practical examples. This guide covers all the essentials for your writing success!

What Is an Analytical Essay

An analytical essay involves analyzing something, such as a book, movie, or idea. It relies on evidence from the text to logically support arguments, avoiding emotional appeals or personal stories. Unlike persuasive essays, which argue for a specific viewpoint, a good analytical essay explores all aspects of the topic, considering different perspectives, dissecting arguments, and evaluating evidence carefully. Ultimately, you'll need to present your own stance based on your analysis, synthesize findings, and decide whether you agree with the conclusions or have your own interpretation.

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How to Structure an Analytical Essay

Crafting an excellent paper starts with clear organization and structuring of arguments. An analytical essay structure follows a simple outline: introduction, body, and conclusion.

Introduction: Begin by grabbing the reader's attention and stating the topic clearly. Provide background information, state the purpose of the paper, and hint at the arguments you'll make. The opening sentence should be engaging, such as a surprising fact or a thought-provoking question. Then, present your thesis, summarizing your stance in the essay.

Body Paragraphs: Each paragraph starts with a clear topic sentence guiding the reader and presents evidence supporting the thesis. Focus on one issue per paragraph and briefly restate the main point at the end to transition smoothly to the next one. This ensures clarity and coherence in your argument.

Conclusion: Restate the thesis, summarize key points from the body paragraphs, and offer insights on the significance of the analysis. Provide your thoughts on the topic's importance and how your analysis contributes to it, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

Meanwhile, you might also be interested in how to write a reflection paper , so check out the article for more information!

How to Write an Analytical Essay in 6 Simple Steps

Once you've got a handle on the structure, you can make writing easier by following some steps. Preparing ahead of time can make the process smoother and improve your essay's flow. Here are some helpful tips from our experts. And if you need it, you can always request our experts to write my essay for me , and we'll handle it promptly.

Step 1: Decide on Your Stance

Before diving into writing, it's crucial to establish your stance on the topic. Let's say you're going to write an analytical essay example about the benefits and drawbacks of remote work. Before you start writing, you need to decide what your opinion or viewpoint is on this topic.

Do you think remote work offers flexibility and improved work-life balance for employees?
Or maybe you believe it can lead to feelings of isolation and decreased productivity?

Once you've determined your stance on remote work, it's essential to consider the evidence and arguments supporting your position. Are there statistics or studies that back up your viewpoint? For example, if you believe remote work improves productivity, you might cite research showing increased output among remote workers. On the other hand, if you think it leads to isolation, you could reference surveys or testimonials highlighting the challenges of remote collaboration. Your opinion will shape how you write your essay, so take some time to think about what you believe about remote work before you start writing.

Step 2: Write Your Thesis Statement

Once you've figured out what you think about the topic, it's time to write your thesis statement. This statement is like the main idea or argument of your essay.

If you believe that remote work offers significant benefits, your thesis statement might be: 'Remote work presents an opportunity for increased flexibility and work-life balance, benefiting employees and employers alike in today's interconnected world.'

Alternatively, if you believe that remote work has notable drawbacks, your thesis statement might be: 'While remote work offers flexibility, it can also lead to feelings of isolation and challenges in collaboration, necessitating a balanced approach to its implementation.'

Your thesis statement guides the rest of your analytical essay, so make sure it clearly expresses your viewpoint on the benefits and drawbacks of remote work.

Step 3: Write Topic Sentences

After you have your thesis statement about the benefits and drawbacks of remote work, you need to come up with topic sentences for each paragraph while writing an analytical essay. These sentences introduce the main point of each paragraph and help to structure your essay.

Let's say your first paragraph is about the benefits of remote work. Your topic sentence might be: 'Remote work offers employees increased flexibility and autonomy, enabling them to better manage their work-life balance.'

For the next paragraph discussing the drawbacks of remote work, your topic sentence could be: 'However, remote work can also lead to feelings of isolation and difficulties in communication and collaboration with colleagues.'

And for the paragraph about potential solutions to the challenges of remote work, your topic sentence might be: 'To mitigate the drawbacks of remote work, companies can implement strategies such as regular check-ins, virtual team-building activities, and flexible work arrangements.'

Each topic sentence should relate back to your thesis statement about the benefits and drawbacks of remote work and provide a clear focus for the paragraph that follows.

Step 4: Create an Outline

Now that you have your thesis statement and topic sentences, it's time to create an analytical essay outline to ensure your essay flows logically. Here's an outline prepared by our analytical essay writer based on the example of discussing the benefits and drawbacks of remote work:

Step 5: Write Your First Draft

Now that you have your outline, it's time to start writing your first draft. Begin by expanding upon each point in your outline, making sure to connect your ideas smoothly and logically. Don't worry too much about perfection at this stage; the goal is to get your ideas down on paper. You can always revise and polish your draft later.

As you write, keep referring back to your thesis statement to ensure that your arguments align with your main argument. Additionally, make sure each paragraph flows naturally into the next, maintaining coherence throughout your essay.

Once you've completed your first draft, take a break and then come back to review and revise it. Look for areas where you can strengthen your arguments, clarify your points, and improve the overall structure and flow of your essay.

Remember, writing is a process, and it's okay to go through multiple drafts before you're satisfied with the final result. Take your time and be patient with yourself as you work towards creating a well-crafted essay on the benefits and drawbacks of remote work.

Step 6: Revise and Proofread

Once you've completed your first draft, it's essential to revise and proofread your essay to ensure clarity, coherence, and correctness. Here's how to approach this step:

Check if your ideas make sense and if they support your main point.
Make sure your writing style stays the same and your format follows the rules.
Double-check your facts and make sure you've covered everything important.
Cut out any extra words and make your sentences clear and short.
Look for mistakes in spelling and grammar.
Ask someone to read your essay and give you feedback.

What is the Purpose of an Analytical Essay?

Analytical essays aim to analyze texts or topics, presenting a clear argument. They deepen understanding by evaluating evidence and uncovering underlying meanings. These essays promote critical thinking, challenging readers to consider different viewpoints.

They're also great for improving critical thinking skills. By breaking down complex ideas and presenting them clearly, they encourage readers to think for themselves and reach their own conclusions.

This type of essay also adds to academic discussions by offering fresh insights. By analyzing existing research and literature, they bring new perspectives or shine a light on overlooked parts of a topic. This keeps academic conversations lively and encourages more exploration in the field.

Analytical Essay Examples

Check out our essay samples to see theory in action. Crafted by our dissertation services , they show how analytical thinking applies to real situations, helping you understand concepts better.

With our tips on how to write an analytical essay, you're ready to boost your writing skills and craft essays that captivate your audience. With practice, you'll become a pro at analytical writing, ready to tackle any topic with confidence. And, if you need help to buy essay online , just drop us a line saying ' do my homework for me ' and we'll jump right in!

Do Analytical Essays Tend to Intimidate You?

Give us your assignment to uncover a deeper understanding of your chosen analytical essay topic!

How to Write an Analytical Essay?

What is an analytical essay.

Daniel Parker

is a seasoned educational writer focusing on scholarship guidance, research papers, and various forms of academic essays including reflective and narrative essays. His expertise also extends to detailed case studies. A scholar with a background in English Literature and Education, Daniel’s work on EssayPro blog aims to support students in achieving academic excellence and securing scholarships. His hobbies include reading classic literature and participating in academic forums.

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

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Using Evidence: Analysis

Beyond introducing and integrating your paraphrases and quotations, you also need to analyze the evidence in your paragraphs. Analysis is your opportunity to contextualize and explain the evidence for your reader. Your analysis might tell the reader why the evidence is important, what it means, or how it connects to other ideas in your writing.

Note that analysis often leads to synthesis , an extension and more complicated form of analysis. See our synthesis page for more information.

Example 1 of Analysis

Without analysis.

Embryonic stem cell research uses the stem cells from an embryo, causing much ethical debate in the scientific and political communities (Robinson, 2011). "Politicians don't know science" (James, 2010, p. 24). Academic discussion of both should continue (Robinson, 2011).

With Analysis (Added in Bold)

Embryonic stem cell research uses the stem cells from an embryo, causing much ethical debate in the scientific and political communities (Robinson, 2011). However, many politicians use the issue to stir up unnecessary emotion on both sides of the issues. James (2010) explained that "politicians don't know science," (p. 24) so scientists should not be listening to politics. Instead, Robinson (2011) suggested that academic discussion of both embryonic and adult stem cell research should continue in order for scientists to best utilize their resources while being mindful of ethical challenges.

Note that in the first example, the reader cannot know how the quotation fits into the paragraph. Also, note that the word both was unclear. In the revision, however, that the writer clearly (a) explained the quotations as well as the source material, (b) introduced the information sufficiently, and (c) integrated the ideas into the paragraph.

Example 2 of Analysis

Trow (1939) measured the effects of emotional responses on learning and found that student memorization dropped greatly with the introduction of a clock. Errors increased even more when intellectual inferiority regarding grades became a factor (Trow, 1939). The group that was allowed to learn free of restrictions from grades and time limits performed better on all tasks (Trow, 1939).

In this example, the author has successfully paraphrased the key findings from a study. However, there is no conclusion being drawn about those findings. Readers have a difficult time processing the evidence without some sort of ending explanation, an answer to the question so what? So what about this study? Why does it even matter?

Here the meaning becomes clear. The study’s findings support the claim the reader is making: that school environment affects achievement.

Analysis Video Playlist

Note that these videos were created while APA 6 was the style guide edition in use. There may be some examples of writing that have not been updated to APA 7 guidelines.

Related Resources

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How to Write an Analytical Essay Step by Step Guide and Examples

What You'll Learn

What is an Analytical Essay?

An analytical essay is a type of academic writing in which a complicated topic or idea is broken down into smaller parts, analyzed and looked at, and a well-structured argument or evaluation is given. The main purpose of an analytical essay is to show that the writer has a deep understanding of the topic and can also think critically about it.

In analytical essays, students must look at and evaluate different sources, find patterns and relationships, and come to meaningful conclusions.

When students write analytical essays, they also improve their research skills because they have to find relevant information from multiple sources and put it all together in a logical argument.
Also, analytical essays are important in academic writing because they help students understand ideas, theories, and concepts that are hard to understand.
By breaking a topic down into smaller parts, students can better understand it and figure out what the main ideas and themes are. Analytical essays help students get better at writing by making them present their arguments in a way that is clear, concise, and well-organized.
Writing an analytical essay is a skill that students need to learn if they want to do well in school and in their careers. For analytical essays, you need to be able to think critically, do research, and write well, all of which are important for success in many fields.
By getting better at these skills, students can become better writers and thinkers, which will help them reach their academic and career goals.

Basics of Analytical Essays

There are a few main things that set an analytical essay apart from other types of essays. One of the most important things about it is that it requires a thorough look at the subject. An analytical essay isn’t just a description of a topic or a point of view. Instead, it calls for a thorough look at the subject, breaking it down into its different parts and evaluating each one carefully.

In an analytical essay, you can’t say enough about how important analysis is. Analysis is the process of breaking down big ideas or thoughts into smaller, more manageable pieces. By analyzing the topic, the writer can find the main ideas, patterns, and connections, which can then be used to back up their arguments .

Also, analysis lets the author draw conclusions that make sense based on the evidence given. If there wasn’t any analysis in an analytical essay, it would just be a list of facts and opinions. Analysis is what gives depth and substance to an analytical essay and lets the writer make a well-reasoned, evidence-based argument.

Analytical essays are different from other types of essays because they focus on analysis and evaluation. They require a thorough look at a subject, breaking it down into its different parts and judging each one objectively. Students can get the skills they need to do well in school and in the workplace by learning what makes an analytical essay unique and what role analysis plays in this type of writing.

How to Write an Analytical Essay Step by Step Guide

Step 1: choosing a topic for your analytical essay.

It can be hard to decide what to write about in an analytical essay, but there are several ways to come up with ideas. One way to do this is to make a list of possible topics based on your interests, your schoolwork, or what’s going on in the world right now. You can also find possible topics by reading articles, books, or other materials in your field of study. When choosing a topic for your analytical essay, you should think about a few things. First and foremost, the topic must fit with the needs of the course or assignment. It should also be narrow enough to allow for a detailed analysis while still having enough information for research. Also, the topic should be something you’re interested in as a writer. This will make the writing process more interesting and fun.

To help you get started, here are some examples of potential analytical essay topics:

The impact of social media on mental health
Analyzing the themes of race and identity in Toni Morrison’s “Beloved”
The role of technology in modern education
An analysis of the effectiveness of the Affordable Care Act
Examining the causes and consequences of income inequality in the United States
The portrayal of gender roles in Shakespeare’s plays
Analyzing the impact of climate change on global food production
A critical analysis of the role of the media in shaping public opinion
A comparison of different political ideologies and their impact on society
An analysis of the ethical implications of gene editing technology.

A topic for an analytical essay must be chosen with care, taking into account several factors such as relevance, scope, and personal interest. By brainstorming ideas, researching different sources, and applying these criteria, you can choose a topic that is both interesting and informative, allowing you to write a well-researched and well-argued analytical essay.

Step 2: Conducting Research for Your Analytical Essay

In order to write an analytical essay, you need to do research. It lets the writer gather relevant information, find patterns and relationships, and come to conclusions that make sense. If you didn’t do research for your analytical essay, it wouldn’t have much substance or credibility, and the arguments you made would be weak and not backed up. You can gather information for your analytical essay from a number of different places. There are many examples, such as books, academic journals, online databases, government reports, and reputable news sources. When choosing sources, think about how relevant, reliable, and trustworthy they are. Academic sources like peer-reviewed journals and scholarly books are more reliable and credible than popular sources like blogs and social media posts.

To conduct effective research for your analytical essay, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Start early: Give yourself plenty of time to conduct research, as it can be a time-consuming process.
Use multiple sources: Gather information from a variety of sources to ensure you have a well-rounded understanding of the topic.
Take notes: Keep detailed notes on the information you gather, including the source and page number, to make it easier to cite your sources later.
Evaluate your sources: Assess the reliability and credibility of your sources, looking for biases or conflicts of interest that may affect the information presented.
Organize your research: Create a system for organizing your research, such as using annotated bibliographies or note-taking apps, to keep track of your sources and ideas.

You can conduct effective research for your analytical essay by following these tips, gathering reliable and credible information that supports your arguments and improves the overall quality of your writing.

Step 3: Developing a Thesis Statement for Your Analytical Essay

A thesis statement is a short sentence that sums up the main argument or point of an essay. It gives the reader a clear idea of where the author stands on the subject and acts as a road map. In an analytical essay, the thesis statement is very important because it sets the tone for the whole essay and shows the writer how to analyze and evaluate the subject.

A strong thesis statement is the backbone of your analytical essay. It should:

Clearly state your main argument or point of view
Be specific and focused
Provide a roadmap for your essay
Be supported by evidence from your research

Example thesis statement: “The widespread use of social media platforms has led to increased rates of anxiety and depression among teenagers due to constant social comparison, cyberbullying, and decreased face-to-face interactions.”

In an analytical essay, you can’t say enough about how important a strong thesis statement is. A well-written thesis statement states the writer’s main point in a clear and concise way, making it easier for the reader to follow the writer’s thought process and understand the purpose of the essay. A strong thesis statement also helps the writer focus their analysis and evaluation, making sure that each paragraph supports the main point and builds on it.

How to develop a strong analytical essay thesis statement

Start with a question: Ask yourself a question related to your topic and use the answer to develop your thesis statement.
Be specific: Your thesis statement should be specific and focused on the main argument of your essay.
Use evidence: Support your thesis statement with evidence from your research, such as quotes or statistics, to give it more credibility and strength.
Be original: Your thesis statement should be unique and original, providing a fresh perspective on the topic.
Revise as needed: As you write your essay, revisit your thesis statement and revise it if necessary to ensure it remains relevant and accurate.

By following these tips, you can develop a strong thesis statement for your analytical essay, providing a clear and concise statement of your main argument and guiding the reader through your analysis and evaluation of the topic.

Step 4: Create an Analytical Essay Structure/Outline

An analytical essay is made up of an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

A well-structured analytical essay typically includes:

Introduction
Body paragraphs (usually 3-5)

Analytical Essay outline

A basic outline might look like this:

I. Introduction A. Hook B. Background C. Thesis II. Body Paragraph 1 A. Topic Sentence B. Evidence C. Analysis III. Body Paragraph 2 A. Topic Sentence B. Evidence C. Analysis IV. Body Paragraph 3 A. Topic Sentence B. Evidence C. Analysis V. Conclusion A. Restate Thesis B. Summarize Main Points C. Final Thoughts

Step 5: Writing an Analytical Essay:

An analytical essay is characterized by:

A clear thesis statement presenting the main argument
In-depth analysis and evaluation of evidence
Logical structure with well-developed paragraphs
Use of formal, academic language
Objective tone

Unlike argumentative or persuasive essays that aim to convince the reader of a specific viewpoint, analytical essays focus on examining and evaluating information to reach a conclusion.

Tips for writing analytical essays a step by step guide

Use clear, concise language
Employ analytical verbs (e.g., analyze, evaluate, interpret)
Incorporate transitional phrases to connect ideas
Use evidence to support your claims
Consider counterarguments to strengthen your analysis
Maintain an objective tone

How to Start an Analysis Essay: Writing Your Introduction

The introduction of your analytical essay sets the stage for your entire analysis. It should engage the reader, provide context, and clearly state your thesis. Here’s how to write an effective introduction:

Hook the reader: Start with an attention-grabbing statement, question, anecdote, or relevant quotation.
Provide context: Give background information necessary for understanding your analysis.
Narrow your focus: Transition from general information to the specific aspect you’ll be analyzing.
State your thesis: Clearly articulate your main argument or point of analysis.

Analytical Essay Introduction Examples

Example 1: Analysis of Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” “To be, or not to be?” This famous question, posed by Hamlet in William Shakespeare’s play, encapsulates the central conflict of the protagonist’s journey. As one of Shakespeare’s most complex characters, Hamlet has fascinated readers and audiences for centuries with his psychological depth and moral ambiguity. This essay will analyze how Shakespeare uses Hamlet’s soliloquies to reveal the prince’s inner turmoil and the play’s broader themes of mortality, revenge, and the nature of action versus inaction. Example 2: Impact of Social Media on Political Discourse In an era where information spreads at the speed of a click, social media platforms have become the new battlegrounds for political ideas and movements. From the Arab Spring to recent election campaigns, these digital spaces have reshaped how we engage with politics. But at what cost to the quality of our discourse? This essay will examine how social media’s inherent features—such as algorithm-driven content, character limits, and the viral nature of sensationalism—have fundamentally altered the landscape of political communication, often prioritizing emotional appeal over factual accuracy. Example 3: “Beautiful Analytical Essay Opening” – Analysis of Impressionist Art A shimmering reflection on water, a fleeting play of light on a cathedral facade, the vibrant energy of a Parisian cafe—these are the ephemeral moments captured in the brushstrokes of Impressionist painters. In their pursuit to seize the transient beauty of modern life, artists like Monet, Renoir, and Degas revolutionized not only how we perceive art but also how we see the world around us. This essay will delve into the techniques and philosophy behind Impressionism, exploring how this radical 19th-century movement challenged artistic conventions and paved the way for modern art.

Body Paragraphs: Analytical Paragraph Structure

The body paragraphs of your analytical essay are where you present your arguments, evidence, and analysis. Each paragraph should focus on a single aspect of your overall thesis.

Analytical Paragraph Structure

An effective analytical paragraph typically follows this structure:

Topic Sentence: Introduces the main idea of the paragraph and links it to your thesis.
Context/Background: Provides any necessary background information for your point.
Evidence: Presents specific examples, quotes, or data that support your point.
Analysis: Explains how the evidence supports your argument and its significance.
Transition: Connects this paragraph to the next, maintaining the flow of your essay.

Example Analytical Paragraph (Breakdown) Topic: The use of symbolism in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby” Topic Sentence: The green light at the end of Daisy’s dock serves as a multifaceted symbol in “The Great Gatsby,” representing Gatsby’s hopes, dreams, and the elusive nature of the American Dream. Context: Throughout the novel, Gatsby is often seen reaching towards this light, which is physically distant yet tantalizing close. Evidence: “Gatsby believed in the green light, the orgastic future that year by year recedes before us. It eluded us then, but that’s no matter—tomorrow we will run faster, stretch out our arms farther…” (Fitzgerald, 180). Analysis: This quote, from the novel’s final passage, encapsulates the dual nature of the green light symbol. On one level, it represents Gatsby’s personal desire for Daisy, always visible yet unattainable. On a broader scale, it embodies the American Dream itself—a beacon of hope that drives people forward, even as it remains forever out of reach. Fitzgerald’s use of “us” in this passage expands the symbol’s significance beyond Gatsby to encompass a universal human experience. Transition: While the green light symbolizes hope and aspiration, Fitzgerald uses other symbols to represent the corruption and decay that lurk beneath the glittering surface of the Roaring Twenties.

Writing a Conclusion to Analytical Essay

The conclusion of your analytical essay should provide closure while reinforcing your main points. Here’s how to write an effective conclusion:

Restate your thesis: Rephrase your main argument in light of the evidence you’ve presented.
Summarize key points: Briefly recap the main arguments from your body paragraphs.
Provide broader context: Explain the significance of your analysis in a larger context.
End with a thought-provoking statement: Leave your reader with something to ponder.

The conclusion paragraph of an analytical essay summarizes the author’s main points and emphasizes the significance of the thesis statement. The conclusion’s goal is to leave a lasting impression on the reader by bringing the essay to a close and reinforcing the main argument .

To write a strong conclusion for your analytical essay, here are some tips to consider:

Restate the thesis statement: The conclusion should restate the thesis statement in a new and meaningful way, emphasizing its importance and relevance to the topic.
Summarize the main points: Summarize the main points of the essay, highlighting the evidence and examples that support the thesis statement.
Provide a final thought: End the essay with a final thought or reflection on the topic, leaving the reader with something to think about or consider.
Be concise: Keep the conclusion concise and to the point, avoiding any new information or arguments.
Make it memorable: Use language and phrasing that is memorable and impactful, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

Example of an Analytical Essay Conclusion

Topic: The impact of social media on political discourse

“As we’ve seen, the rise of social media has fundamentally altered the landscape of political communication, often prioritizing emotional appeal and brevity over nuanced discussion. The echo chambers created by algorithmic content curation, combined with the viral nature of sensationalist posts, have contributed to increased polarization and the spread of misinformation. While social media platforms have democratized access to political engagement, they have also fragmented our shared reality, making consensus and productive dialogue increasingly challenging. The implications of this shift extend far beyond individual political campaigns or movements. As society grapples with complex, global challenges like climate change and economic inequality, the quality of our political discourse becomes ever more critical. Moving forward, it is essential that we develop digital literacy skills and create online spaces that encourage thoughtful, fact-based discussions. Only by understanding and addressing the limitations of social media as a political forum can we hope to harness its potential for positive civic engagement. In the end, the power of social media in politics is a double-edged sword. It has the capacity to mobilize millions for social change, but also to divide and misinform. As users and citizens, the responsibility falls on us to approach these platforms critically, seek out diverse viewpoints, and strive for meaningful dialogue. The future of our democracy may well depend on our ability to navigate this new digital political landscape.”

This conclusion restates the thesis about social media’s impact on political discourse, summarizes key points about echo chambers and viral misinformation, provides broader context about the importance of quality political discourse, and ends with a thought-provoking statement about individual responsibility and the future of democracy.

Step 6:Editing and Proofreading Your Analytical Essay

The editing and proofreading stages of the essay writing process are critical. It ensures that the essay is clear, concise, and error-free, improving overall writing quality and the credibility of the arguments presented.

To edit and proofread your analytical essay, here are some tips to consider:

1. Take a break: After completing your essay, take a break before editing and proofreading it. This will allow you to approach the essay with fresh eyes and a clear mind.
2. Read it out loud: Reading the essay out loud can help you to identify awkward phrasing, grammatical errors, and other issues.
3. Be consistent: Ensure that you are consistent in your use of language, formatting, and citation styles throughout the essay.
4. Use a checklist: Use a checklist to ensure that you have addressed all the necessary components of the essay, such as the thesis statement, evidence, and analysis.
5. Get feedback: Ask a friend or colleague to read your essay and provide feedback on areas that need improvement.

Common mistakes to avoid in analytical essays include:

1. Using overly complicated language or jargon that may confuse the reader.
2. Failing to provide evidence or examples to support the thesis statement.
3. Neglecting to address counterarguments or alternative perspectives on the topic.
4. Making unsupported claims or presenting opinions as facts.
5. Failing to proofread and edit the essay thoroughly, leading to grammatical errors and typos.

By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can edit and proofread your analytical essay effectively, producing a well-written and error-free piece of writing.

Analytical Essay Examples

Here are some examples of successful analytical essays:.

1. “The Symbolism of the Green Light in The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald: This essay analyzes the symbolism of the green light in the novel, arguing that it represents Gatsby’s hopes and dreams and his ultimate failure to achieve them.
2. “The Rhetoric of Malcolm X” by Malcolm X: In this essay, Malcolm X analyzes his own rhetorical strategies, explaining how he uses language and persuasion to achieve his goals.
3. “The Role of Women in Shakespeare’s Macbeth” by William Shakespeare: This essay analyzes the role of women in the play, arguing that they are often marginalized and oppressed by the male characters.
Read more Analytical Essay Examples

Each of these essays follows a clear and well-structured format, with a strong thesis statement, supporting evidence, and a clear conclusion. The writers use analysis and evaluation to present their arguments, using evidence and examples to support their claims.

When using analytical essay examples to improve your writing, here are some tips to consider:

Choose examples that are relevant to your topic or subject matter.
Read the example essays carefully, paying attention to the structure, language, and evidence used.
Identify the thesis statement and main arguments of the essay.
Analyze the evidence used to support the arguments, evaluating its relevance and credibility.
Consider how the writer uses language and rhetoric to persuade the reader.
Use The examples as a guide for structuring your own essay, but be sure to use your own unique ideas and perspective.
Practice writing your own analytical essays and seek feedback from others to improve your writing skills.
Avoid copying or plagiarizing the example essays, as this can lead to serious academic consequences.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. what is an analytical essay.

An analytical essay is a type of academic writing that requires the writer to analyze and evaluate a specific topic or subject matter. The writer presents an argument or thesis statement and supports it with evidence and examples, using analysis and evaluation to persuade the reader.

2. What are the main characteristics of an analytical essay?

The main characteristics of an analytical essay include:

– A clear and concise thesis statement that presents the writer’s argument
– Use of evidence and examples to support the argument
– Analysis and evaluation of the evidence presented
– Clear and logical structure, with well-developed paragraphs and transitions between them
– Use of formal and academic language
– Objective and impartial tone

3. What are some tips for writing an analytical essay?

Here are some tips for writing an analytical essay:

– Choose a topic that interests you and that you can analyze in depth
– Develop a clear and concise thesis statement that presents your argument
– Use evidence and examples to support your argument, ensuring that they are relevant, reliable, and credible
– Analyze and evaluate the evidence presented, demonstrating your critical thinking skills
– Use a clear and logical structure, with well-developed paragraphs and transitions between them
– Use formal and academic language, avoiding slang and colloquialisms
– Edit and proofread your essay thoroughly, ensuring that it is error-free and well-written.

4. How to Write an Analytical Essay?

Writing an analytical essay involves several steps:

Choose a topic: Select a subject that interests you and has enough depth for analysis.
Develop a thesis: Formulate a clear, specific argument about your topic.
Research: Gather relevant information from credible sources to support your analysis.
Create an outline: Organize your thoughts and evidence into a logical structure.
Write the introduction: Hook the reader, provide context, and state your thesis.
Develop body paragraphs: Present your analysis with evidence and examples.
Write the conclusion: Summarize your main points and reinforce your thesis.
Edit and proofread: Refine your essay for clarity, coherence, and correctness.
Focus on “how” and “why” questions rather than just “what” happened.
Use evidence to support your claims.
Maintain an objective tone throughout the essay.
Ensure each paragraph connects back to your thesis.

5. How Do You Structure an Analytical Essay?

A typical analytical essay follows this structure:

Hook to grab the reader’s attention
Brief background information
Thesis statement
Topic sentence
Evidence presentation
Analysis of evidence
Transition to the next point
Restatement of thesis
Summary of main points
Final thoughts or call to action

Each body paragraph should focus on a single aspect of your argument. Ensure smooth transitions between paragraphs to maintain the flow of your essay.

6. How to Write an Analysis Essay?

Writing an analysis essay involves:

Close reading of the subject (text, artwork, event, etc.)
Identifying key elements, patterns, or themes
Formulating a thesis about the significance of these elements
Supporting your thesis with evidence and reasoning

Steps to follow:

Read/observe your subject multiple times, taking notes.
Identify the main elements or themes.
Develop a thesis that explains the significance of these elements.
Gather evidence to support your thesis.
Organize your thoughts into a clear outline.
Write your essay, ensuring each paragraph supports your thesis.
Revise and refine your analysis.

Remember to go beyond mere description. Explain why certain elements are significant and how they contribute to the overall meaning or effect of the subject.

7. How Do You Structure an Analysis Essay?

An analysis essay typically follows this structure:

Introduce the subject of analysis
Provide brief context
Present your thesis (main argument about the subject)
Brief overview of the subject for readers unfamiliar with it
Several paragraphs, each focusing on a specific aspect of your argument
Present evidence and explain its significance
Connect each point back to your thesis
Summarize your main points
Restate your thesis in light of the evidence presented
Discuss broader implications of your analysis

Ensure that your analysis is the bulk of the essay. The summary should be brief, serving only to give context for your analysis.

8. Do You Need an Outline for an Analytical Essay?

While not always required, an outline is highly recommended for an analytical essay. Here’s why:

Organization: An outline helps structure your thoughts logically.
Focus: It keeps you centered on your main argument and prevents tangents.
Balance: You can ensure each point receives appropriate attention.
Efficiency: It makes the writing process smoother and often faster.

9. What Skills Do You Need to Write an Analytical Essay?

Writing an effective analytical essay requires several key skills:

Critical Thinking: Ability to examine information objectively and make reasoned judgments.
Close Reading/Observation: Skill to identify key elements, patterns, and themes in the subject of analysis.
Research Skills: Capacity to find and evaluate relevant, credible sources.
Logical Reasoning: Ability to construct and support arguments with evidence.
Clear Communication: Skill to express complex ideas clearly and concisely.
Organization: Ability to structure information and ideas coherently.
Analysis: Capacity to break down complex topics into components and understand their relationships.
Synthesis: Skill to combine various pieces of information to form a cohesive argument.
Objectivity: Ability to set aside personal biases and examine topics impartially.
Attention to Detail: Skill to notice and interpret subtle elements that contribute to the overall analysis.
Academic Writing: Familiarity with formal writing conventions, including proper citation methods.
Revision Skills: Ability to critically review and improve your own work.

Developing these skills takes practice. Regular reading, writing, and engaging in critical discussions can help improve your analytical abilities over time.

To summarize, writing an effective analytical essay necessitates a thorough understanding of the subject matter, a well-developed thesis statement, strong evidence and analysis, and a clear and logical structure. To summarize the main points covered in this guide:
– The writer of an analytical essay must analyze and evaluate a specific topic or subject matter.
– A clear thesis statement, evidence and examples to support the argument, analysis and evaluation of the evidence, a clear and logical structure, formal and academic language, and an objective tone are the main characteristics of an analytical essay.
– Choosing a relevant topic, developing a clear thesis statement, using credible evidence and examples, analyzing and evaluating the evidence, using a clear and logical structure, using formal and academic language, and thoroughly editing and proofreading the essay are all tips for writing a successful analytical essay.

An effective analytical essay demonstrates critical thinking skills as well as the ability to analyze and evaluate complex issues. It is an important skill for both academic and professional success.

Finally, practicing writing on a regular basis, seeking feedback from others, and reading and analyzing examples of successful analytical essays can all help you improve your own writing skills.

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How to Write an Analysis Essay: The Ultimate Study Guide

Have an analytical essay to write? We get it. We’ve been there. Fortunately, we are here for you, with some insights into writing a successful analytical paper. Keep reading this article.

Analytical Essay Definition

How to write an analytical essay: step by step, analysis essay outline.

Analytical Essay Topic

An analytical essay is a writing assignment. Your goal here is to introduce and discuss a claim as well as to deliver a detailed review of a given topic.

You can write analysis essays on topics from different fields. These include such topics as politics, economics, art, philosophy, music, literature, etc. Analytical assignments are a substantial part of any academic work. That is why university and college students often have to compose such papers. An outstanding analytical essay intends to explain and contextualize any topic—both the author and the reader benefit from it. In order to get a clearer picture of what this type of work should look like, check out some examples in our free essays collection.

Types of Analytical Essay

There are different types of analytical essays. It is important to find out what kind of essay you will write to use the correct structure.

📌 Cause and effect analytical essay. Also known as reason and result essay, this type of work discusses the purpose of something, which then enables us to analyze it while studying its effect on other things. 📌 Comparison and contrast analysis. This essay type examines two subjects to highlight their subtle similarities or differences through contrasting, comparison, or both processes at once. 📌 Classification. This type provides classification of things with common similarities into groups or categories to better learn their nature and carry out the analysis. 📌 Process essay. Such works talk about the way of doing something in order to give some sort of guidance or directions to readers. 📌 Definition. These essays comprise research to define an idea, concept, or term and provide evidence to support it. They also contain explanation through examples.

We use all these types of analytical essays while writing different kinds of analyses. The most common variants of analysis are literary analysis, painting analysis, and analysis of speech.

Find their detailed descriptions down below!

What is a Literary Analysis

While writing a literary analysis essay, you don’t always have to study a work of literature in its entirety. Sometimes you need to describe only a particular character or one aspect of the work. When studying various literary work elements, you are likely to understand the whole piece better. This process makes literary analysis one of the most exciting types of papers.

There are two main ways of composing the work – from the style perspective and from the literature piece elements perspective.

If you want to concentrate on the style , you can consider following criteria:

Structure and organization
Point of view
Word choice
Figurative language

In case of choosing to look into the elements of the work, you need to describe these aspects:

It is also possible to analyze all these elements considering different analytical essays: cause and effect, comparison and contrast, classification, process, and definition papers.

It would be a mistake to think that an analysis of literary work is just a summary of a piece of writing. On the contrary, it is rather a debate about the work that conveys a writer’s interpretation of the work.

How to Write Painting Analysis

Analyzing a painting is never easy. If you aren’t sure where to start, remember that you don’t need to be a painter or an expert in the field. Start your writing by answering some of these questions:

🤔 When was the painting made? 🤔 How big/small is it? 🤔 What kind of painting is it? It could be a portrait, a landscape, or still life. 🤔 How does the artist use colors and shapes? 🤔 What is your idea of the mood of the picture? 🤔 Is there a story behind the image? 🤔 Do you know who the artist is? 🤔 Did the artist use any symbols in the painting? 🤔 How would you describe the brushwork? Is the paint thick or thin?

Some more tips on how to analyze a work of art :

“Description of a painting” does not mean “analysis of a painting,” so do not dive into too much detail. Going beyond stating the obvious, a student can demonstrate a more profound understanding of the piece of art.
Try to avoid such judgmental expressions as “I like this” or “I don’t like this.” Remember to support your opinion with evidence or justification.
Talk about several visual elements. Make sure you discuss different visual aspects of the artwork. Do not limit your analysis to talking only about colors or patterns. Try to show the painting from different perspectives.

Speech Analysis: Overview

While writing a speech analysis, you need to answer two questions. The first question you need to discuss here is WHAT the speaker says. Analyze their speech according to the standard procedure of text analysis, conversation analysis, and dialogue analysis.

The second important question is HOW the speaker expresses the ideas. Sometimes you need to analyze it to read between the lines and get the speaker’s view better. Important messages in speeches are often sent through appearance and behavior.

When analyzing a speech, try to consider the following questions :

🔎 Who is giving a speech? 🔎 What does the speaker look like? 🔎 How are they dressed? 🔎 What is the speaker’s behavior? 🔎 Does the speaker use gestures? 🔎 What is their voice like?

Some more tips on how to analyze a speech:

A good piece of advice is to analyze the speaker and the audience they are talking to. You can describe their background and education, the atmosphere of the meeting, the general mood of the audience.
It is also possible to talk about the meeting itself. Maybe it is a conference or a TV show, a workshop or a big plenary. All these details are crucial because they influence the speaker directly.

Writing an analytical essay can be tricky. You need to consider many aspects if you want your work to sound competent. We’ve prepared a list of 5 key steps that will help you create the best analytical essay possible.

5 Key Steps to a Perfect Analytical Essay

1. pick a good topic.

Before talking about any topic, it is helpful to study it from the ground up. When you become a real expert on the subject, you realize that analysis is relatively simple.

Check websites of trustworthy institutions to see if they have works on similar issues, or just google published papers on related topics. They can help you structure your work better.

They can also give you inspiration about the ideas you might discuss in your work.

2. Produce an analytical thesis statement

A thesis statement is the foundation of your work. It can be expressed in one sentence and supported by the most important arguments.

A working thesis statement gives the readers a general idea of the structure of your paper. It also provides them with the central point of your work and the main arguments supporting the idea. Aside from that, it declares a position about the subject that needs discussing and proving.

Here is an example of a good thesis statement:

“Worldwide nature preserving measures should concentrate on saving endangered species. It would allow many rare kinds of animals to live and breed in a safe environment.”

3. Do your research

Before writing an essay, it is vital to study the topic thoroughly. Do not skip this step, as it is essential to demonstrate that you have learned the topic and are ready to present your results, supported by arguments. So, get ready! Read relevant studies, do experiments, collect statistics – everything counts!

4. Set a realistic goal

When choosing a goal for your research, stay realistic. Try to make your goal as precise as possible. In this case, it will be easy for you to achieve your aim and to demonstrate your results at their best. It is also easier to find arguments for and against your thesis statement if your goal is precise and narrow.

5. Create an analysis essay outline

Any written assignment needs thorough planning, and analytical essays need it too. Before you write, make a well-structured outline of your work, including every paragraph’s essential points.

An analysis essay consists of an introduction, several main body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Let’s investigate this part in more detail.

There are many ways to structure an analytical assignment. Which format is best depending on the type of essay and the main goals of the writing task? We have prepared three different kinds of outlines for you.

The first type of structure is perfect when you need to state the central position in the text and defend it. Concentrate on the position you take, but don’t forget to mention alternative perspectives as well. In this type of work, you do not need to explain why the alternative ways are wrong. Show the readers that they exist.

The second type is good for when you not only want to defend your position. You also aim to explain why the other perspectives are wrong. In this case, you need to think carefully about arguments for your position. You will also need arguments against the different opinions.

And the third type is a perfect fit if you aim to demonstrate a wide range of several issues.For each of them, you have the central position and defending arguments. This type of essay tends to be the longest, as it covers several issues. It also includes alternative positions on all the problems. The thing is – there is no need to prove the alternative ideas wrong. You should only defend your main statement.

Analytical Essay Introduction: Examples

The purpose of the introduction of your essay is to make the readers focus. To keep the attention, you need to include a hook in the introduction . The hook can look like a rhetorical or provocative question, a quotation, or a bold statement.

A good intro also mentions the issue you will talk about. Besides, it states the position you are taking and background information on the topic. It is usually situated at the end of the introductory paragraph.

Some examples of good introductions:

✅ “The symbolism in JD Salinger’s Franny and Zooey” keeps the feeling of melancholia and uncertainty throughout the entire novel.” ✅ “Although there are many reasons for the 2nd World War, it is nationalism that formed hatred and provoked the War’s start.” ✅ “All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal.” Animal Farm is full of ironic and provocative phrases, which invite the reader to continue exploring the story. ✅ In Animal Farm, the author uses irony types to show totalitarianism and to manifest its inability to make every member of society equal.

Analysis Essay Body: Paragraph Format + Examples

The main body is a part of an essay with the aim to show readers the main idea development. Here, you need to add some evidence to support your thesis. Usually, there are three paragraphs. It depends on how broad the thesis statement is. Writers typically look for the evidence in different resources. It can be in the form of a summary, a quotation, or a paraphrase.

Here is an example of how to start a body paragraph:

“In the article, the author describes a particular scenario of doing house chores with her husband. She is paving the way for the following discussion of…”

Remember to include topic sentences in each paragraph! The main idea of the paragraph should be there. It also should be connected to your work’s central position. It is crucially important to support every claim in the thesis statement with proof. Try to include arguments supported by research and strong evidence. That is the reason to have a narrow thesis statement. The broader your thesis is – the more paragraphs the main body will contain.

For example:

“At first look, the plot of the story seems direct. It tells a story of… The central question of the story is looking for meaning in life. For instance: “Never have I had such a strong fish nor one who acted so strangely. Perhaps he is too wise to jump…”. This passage shows the readers the simple structure of …”

Can I Use a Quote in My Conclusion?

It is better to use a quotation in the introduction or the essay body. But if the quote can logically finish your analysis, then use it! Just make sure that your quotation does not include any new ideas or information. The reason is that the aim of the conclusion is to restate your thesis statement and your topic.

Analytical Essay Topic

Analysis of consumer behavior for coffee at Starbucks
What makes Antique Mobile advertisement successful?
What is the biggest message of The Odyssey ?
Legalizing marijuana: analysis of arguments
The central idea of the poem Mother to Son by Langston Hughes
Why is Kahler v. Kansas important?
The Hauser & Partner company’s analysis
What makes the marketing strategy of Victoria’s Secret successful?
What does The Penguin and The Whale represent?
Analysis of Leonard Peltier murder case
Rhetorical devices in Letter from Birmingham Jail
The financial statement used by ABC Healthcare Corporation
Analysis of foreign brands Internet appearance
Can you have freedom without responsibility ?
Why are steroids banned in sports?
Analysis of Caterpillar company
Current issues in the American juvenile justice system
What is the main idea of Farewell to Manzanar ?
Samsung company analysis
Life and existence as a theme of Good Country People
Zara’s competitive advantage
Artist Teju Cole’s Biography analysis
What makes The Maldives a popular tourist attraction?
Operation Neptune Spear vs. Operation Geronimo
Analysis of Chipotle Mexican Grill
How do companies measure performance ?
The importance of digital technologies in education
The Story of an Hour by Kate Chopin: an analysis
What are the success factors of Alibaba company?
Justice in Twelve Angry Men
Ponzi scheme overview and analysis
What is the financial performance of Pfizer company?
The Seventh Seal film analysis
The theme of betrayal in The Last King of Scotland
Analysis of Costco wholesale service provision
Allegory in Flatland by Abbott
The Endometriosis Fund of America’s analysis
Vision and mission of Marriott International
Understanding The Other Side of the Bar by J. Kaida: analysis
The theme of excellence in literature
Analysis of the Coca-Cola Company
What is the moral of The Paper Menagerie ?
New Evian water product and customers analysis
Why did Lincoln win a second term as president?
Tesla Inc.’s mission & vision and strategic (SWOT) analysis
Metaphors in Fight Club
Legal Alien by Pat Mora: a poem analysis
What is the biggest challenge for FedEx?
The Comcast Corporation Value Net analysis
How did Enlightenment change the world?

We hope now you understand that writing an analytical essay is not that tricky. Just follow our advice, build a good structure, and don’t forget about your research.

Analytical essays can help students to develop their writing skills. It also teaches them critical thinking as well as analyzing extensive amounts of information.

If you have any thoughts on the topic or this article helped you with your assignment, leave your comments below. We will be happy to answer!

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FREE 7+ Analysis Essay Examples in PDF
How to Write an Analytical Essay (with Samples)
HaydenfinDuffy
What Is an Analytical Essay? A Writing Guide With Examples
SOLUTION: Outline structure for literary analysis essay hatmat
How to Write a Critical Analysis Essay

VIDEO

How to Write an Academic Essay
5 CRITICAL MISTAKES TO AVOID IN PROCESS ANALYSIS ESSAY WRITING
How to write an Analytical Essay? [ TOP TIPS & TRICKS ]
Basic Academic Essay Structure
How to write an Analytical Essay #Shorts
Academic English

COMMENTS

How to Write an Analytical Essay in 6 Steps - Grammarly
An analytical essay is an essay that meticulously and methodically examines a single topic to draw conclusions or prove theories. Although they are… Learn all about analytical essays, including how to write and structure one in 6 steps, with examples of analytical essay outlines.
How to Write a Literary Analysis Essay | A Step-by-Step Guide
A literary analysis essay is not a rhetorical analysis, nor is it just a summary of the plot or a book review. Instead, it is a type of argumentative essay where you need to analyze elements such as the language, perspective, and structure of the text, and explain how the author uses literary devices to create effects and convey ideas.
33 Critical Analysis Examples - Helpful Professor
In essay writing, a critical analysis essay will involve using a range of analytical skills to explore a topic, such as: Evaluating sources. Exploring strengths and weaknesses. Exploring pros and cons. Questioning and challenging ideas. Comparing and contrasting ideas.
Academic writing: Writing critically | IOE - Faculty of ... - UCL
What does the term “critical analysis” mean in the context of academic writing? Showing critical analysis in academic writing could mean: Demonstrating your understanding of reading/evidence (“this appears to demonstrate that…”; “this implies…”; “this could result in…”).
Strategies for Essay Writing - Harvard College Writing Center
Verbs like analyze, compare, discuss, explain, make an argument, propose a solution, trace, or research can help you understand what you’re being asked to do with an assignment. Unless the instructor has specified otherwise, most of your paper assignments at Harvard will ask you to make an argument.
Analyzing Scholarly Articles - The University Writing Center
In writing up your critical essay, you will need to include the following: Summary of the article you are critiquing: this shows you understood it. Provide a brief overview of what the article was trying to do (i.e., the problem), methods, if relevant, and the thesis or findings.
How To Write an Analytical Essay - EssayPro Blog
To write an analytical essay, start by carefully analyzing the topic or text you're discussing. Develop a clear thesis statement that presents your argument or interpretation. Use evidence from the text to support your analysis and organize your essay with a logical structure, including an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
Analysis - Using Evidence - Academic Guides at Walden University
Example 1 of Analysis. Without Analysis. Embryonic stem cell research uses the stem cells from an embryo, causing much ethical debate in the scientific and political communities (Robinson, 2011). "Politicians don't know science" (James, 2010, p. 24). Academic discussion of both should continue (Robinson, 2011). With Analysis (Added in Bold)
How to Write an Analytical Essay Step by ... - Studying HQ
An analytical essay is a type of academic writing in which a complicated topic or idea is broken down into smaller parts, analyzed and looked at, and a well-structured argument or evaluation is given. The main purpose of an analytical essay is to show that the writer has a deep understanding of the topic and can also think critically about it.
How to Write an Analysis Essay: The Ultimate Study Guide
Analytical Essay Definition. An analytical essay is a writing assignment. Your goal here is to introduce and discuss a claim as well as to deliver a detailed review of a given topic. You can write analysis essays on topics from different fields.

33 Critical Analysis Examples

Critical Analysis Examples

2. Evaluating Sources

3. Identifying Similarities

4. Identifying Differences

6. Identifying Oversights

7. Fact Checking

8. Exploring Counterexamples

9. Assessing Methodologies

10. Exploring Alternative Explanations

A Full List of Critical Analysis Skills

Analysis and Bloom’s Taxonomy

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Academic writing: Writing critically

Critical analysis

Criticality?

Example extracts from a critical review

Read and take notes

Organise your writing

Explicit evaluation

Implicit evaluation

Linguistic features of a critical review

Summary language

Evaluation language

Conclusion language

An important note

How To Write an Analytical Essay

What Is an Analytical Essay

Wondering How to Impress Your Professor with Your Essay?

How to Structure an Analytical Essay

How to Write an Analytical Essay in 6 Simple Steps

Step 1: Decide on Your Stance

Step 2: Write Your Thesis Statement

Step 3: Write Topic Sentences

Step 4: Create an Outline

Step 5: Write Your First Draft

Step 6: Revise and Proofread

What is the Purpose of an Analytical Essay?

Analytical Essay Examples

Do Analytical Essays Tend to Intimidate You?

How to Write an Analytical Essay?

Using Evidence: Analysis

Example 1 of Analysis

With Analysis (Added in Bold)

Example 2 of Analysis

Analysis Video Playlist

Related Resources

Walden Resources

Centers and Offices

Student Resources

How to Write an Analytical Essay Step by Step Guide and Examples

What is an Analytical Essay?

Basics of Analytical Essays

How to Write an Analytical Essay Step by Step Guide

Step 2: Conducting Research for Your Analytical Essay

Step 3: Developing a Thesis Statement for Your Analytical Essay

How to develop a strong analytical essay thesis statement

Step 4: Create an Analytical Essay Structure/Outline

Analytical Essay outline

Step 5: Writing an Analytical Essay:

Tips for writing analytical essays a step by step guide

How to Start an Analysis Essay: Writing Your Introduction

Analytical Essay Introduction Examples

Body Paragraphs: Analytical Paragraph Structure

Analytical Paragraph Structure

Writing a Conclusion to Analytical Essay

Example of an Analytical Essay Conclusion

Step 6:Editing and Proofreading Your Analytical Essay

Common mistakes to avoid in analytical essays include:

Analytical Essay Examples

When using analytical essay examples to improve your writing, here are some tips to consider:

Frequently Asked Questions

2. What are the main characteristics of an analytical essay?

3. What are some tips for writing an analytical essay?

4. How to Write an Analytical Essay?

5. How Do You Structure an Analytical Essay?

6. How to Write an Analysis Essay?

7. How Do You Structure an Analysis Essay?

8. Do You Need an Outline for an Analytical Essay?

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