Tips for School Students: How to Write An Analysis Essay
An analysis essay is much different than a report. In a report you are merely summarizing a subject such as the plot line for a novel. In an analysis, you would be discussing why the events in the plot line occurred, why characters acted in a certain way, how the setting impacted the plot line, or how the characters’ actions impacted the plot line.
To analyze is to pick apart and to find reasons and then to draw up conclusions. Your conclusions could be different than another student’s conclusions and both of your papers would and could be correct if you both supported your theories with valid and credible evidence.
When writing an analysis, make sure you use the following guidelines and tips for success:
- Create a strong thesis statement that will guide you through your paper. Do not be afraid to change the thesis statement if you are having trouble supporting your thesis statement with credible evidence.
- Before you begin to write, compose an outline that you will follow as you write your paper. Random and unguided essays rarely are effective nor receive good marks.
- Use academic databases to find support for your thesis statement. You need experts and professional from the field you are discussing to support your ideas.
- You should use all MLA rules and formatting for your paper.
- Do not be afraid to take an unusual stance or to try to analyze from a different angle. If you can find valid support, your paper should be very interesting. Teachers love an unusual analysis that has solid support.
- Always lead with a strong main point and end with a strong main point. Put the points of analysis that are weaker in the middle of the paper. And do not be surprised if some are weaker than others, not all main points were created equally.
- Use quotes, case studies, statistics, stories, surveys, and any kind of valid and credible support you can find as a means of analyzing your topic.
- Blend your thoughts with the support you find. Keep the percentages as equal as possible. Present your thought, analyze it, and then support it. Follow this pattern throughout the paper.
A strong analysis paper is the sign of a mature and proficient writer. Use these tips and guidelines and you will be on your way to success with your analysis.