Critical Analysis
What is Critical Analysis?
In general, critical analysis implies the ability to contemplate, question, and explore
ideas in depth without accepting superficial answers. In literature, critical analysis
means taking a close look, both at the small details and the big picture, of a written work
and carefully judging or evaluating both the faults and merits of the piece.
Major Aspects
Analysis
When you analyze information, you mentally divide it into its parts. Then, you look for
any relationships that may exist among the various parts.
For example, when you critically read an essay, you break down the essay into the
following parts: thesis statement, major supports, secondary supports, and
conclusion.
Questioning Attitude
You should understand what the author is saying, and you should challenge or question
the author as well.
For example, you may question the validity of the author's main point or ask whether
the text agrees or disagrees with other writings on the same topic.
Active Reading
Your mind needs to be actively engaged as you read. Concentrate on the text that you
are reading; do not let your mind get distracted.
For example, you can highlight or underline important sentences in a story or make
notes in the margins about information or ideas in a certain paragraph.
To Read Actively:
Pay attention to the title to see if it offers clues to the tone and thesis of the text.
Read any biographical information about the author, both to note his or her
credentials and to determine whether he or she has a particular bias on the subject.
Read the opening and closing paragraphs to get an idea of the author's thesis and
conclusion.
Reread the entire written work; you might discover aspects you missed the first time.
