Writing critically means examining how a claim is supported, what assumptions it relies on and how convincing it is in context. It does not mean finding faults with every source. A critical essay develops a reasoned judgement from evidence.
Clarify the object of analysis
Identify whether you are examining a text, theory, study or policy. Turn the assignment question into analytical criteria. A clear scope prevents the essay from becoming a general summary of the topic.
Understand before evaluating
Represent the source’s main claim accurately and identify the evidence offered for it. Distinguish what the author says from your interpretation. A criticism based on a misreading is not a strong analysis.
Question evidence and assumptions
Ask whether the method or evidence fits the claim, what is left out and which alternative explanations are plausible. Assess relevance and limitations rather than dismissing a source because it does not answer every possible question.
Build paragraphs around judgements
Make a focused analytical point, supply evidence and explain its significance. Compare sources where useful and qualify the conclusion to match the evidence. Avoid adding a judgement word such as “weak” without explaining the reason.
Synthesise the final evaluation
Bring together the most important findings and state the overall judgement they justify. Identify any unresolved issue without introducing a new major argument. Check that the conclusion evaluates the same question established in the introduction.
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