introduction for an analysis essay

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!

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How to Write an Analytical Essay?

What is an analytical essay.

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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.

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How to Write an Essay Introduction (with Examples)   

The introduction of an essay plays a critical role in engaging the reader and providing contextual information about the topic. It sets the stage for the rest of the essay, establishes the tone and style, and motivates the reader to continue reading. 

Table of Contents

What is an essay introduction , what to include in an essay introduction, how to create an essay structure , step-by-step process for writing an essay introduction , how to write an essay introduction paragraph with paperpal – step -by -step, how to write a hook for your essay , how to include background information , how to write a thesis statement .

• Argumentative Essay Introduction Example: 
• Expository Essay Introduction Example 

Literary Analysis Essay Introduction Example

Check and revise – checklist for essay introduction , key takeaways , frequently asked questions .

An introduction is the opening section of an essay, paper, or other written work. It introduces the topic and provides background information, context, and an overview of what the reader can expect from the rest of the work. 1 The key is to be concise and to the point, providing enough information to engage the reader without delving into excessive detail. 

The essay introduction is crucial as it sets the tone for the entire piece and provides the reader with a roadmap of what to expect. Here are key elements to include in your essay introduction: 

• Hook : Start with an attention-grabbing statement or question to engage the reader. This could be a surprising fact, a relevant quote, or a compelling anecdote. 
• Background information : Provide context and background information to help the reader understand the topic. This can include historical information, definitions of key terms, or an overview of the current state of affairs related to your topic. 
• Thesis statement : Clearly state your main argument or position on the topic. Your thesis should be concise and specific, providing a clear direction for your essay. 

Before we get into how to write an essay introduction, we need to know how it is structured. The structure of an essay is crucial for organizing your thoughts and presenting them clearly and logically. It is divided as follows: 2  

• Introduction:  The introduction should grab the reader’s attention with a hook, provide context, and include a thesis statement that presents the main argument or purpose of the essay.  
• Body:  The body should consist of focused paragraphs that support your thesis statement using evidence and analysis. Each paragraph should concentrate on a single central idea or argument and provide evidence, examples, or analysis to back it up.  
• Conclusion:  The conclusion should summarize the main points and restate the thesis differently. End with a final statement that leaves a lasting impression on the reader. Avoid new information or arguments. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to write an essay introduction: 

• Start with a Hook : Begin your introduction paragraph with an attention-grabbing statement, question, quote, or anecdote related to your topic. The hook should pique the reader’s interest and encourage them to continue reading. 
• Provide Background Information : This helps the reader understand the relevance and importance of the topic. 
• State Your Thesis Statement : The last sentence is the main argument or point of your essay. It should be clear, concise, and directly address the topic of your essay. 
• Preview the Main Points : This gives the reader an idea of what to expect and how you will support your thesis. 
• Keep it Concise and Clear : Avoid going into too much detail or including information not directly relevant to your topic. 
• Revise : Revise your introduction after you’ve written the rest of your essay to ensure it aligns with your final argument. 

Unsure of how to start your essay introduction? Leverage Paperpal’s Generative AI templates to provide a base for your essay introduction. Here’s an example of an essay outline generated by Paperpal.  

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This is one of the key steps in how to write an essay introduction. Crafting a compelling hook is vital because it sets the tone for your entire essay and determines whether your readers will stay interested. A good hook draws the reader in and sets the stage for the rest of your essay.  

• Avoid Dry Fact : Instead of simply stating a bland fact, try to make it engaging and relevant to your topic. For example, if you’re writing about the benefits of exercise, you could start with a startling statistic like, “Did you know that regular exercise can increase your lifespan by up to seven years?” 
• Avoid Using a Dictionary Definition : While definitions can be informative, they’re not always the most captivating way to start an essay. Instead, try to use a quote, anecdote, or provocative question to pique the reader’s interest. For instance, if you’re writing about freedom, you could begin with a quote from a famous freedom fighter or philosopher. 
• Do Not Just State a Fact That the Reader Already Knows : This ties back to the first point—your hook should surprise or intrigue the reader. For Here’s an introduction paragraph example, if you’re writing about climate change, you could start with a thought-provoking statement like, “Despite overwhelming evidence, many people still refuse to believe in the reality of climate change.” 

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Including background information in the introduction section of your essay is important to provide context and establish the relevance of your topic. When writing the background information, you can follow these steps: 

• Start with a General Statement:  Begin with a general statement about the topic and gradually narrow it down to your specific focus. For example, when discussing the impact of social media, you can begin by making a broad statement about social media and its widespread use in today’s society, as follows: “Social media has become an integral part of modern life, with billions of users worldwide.” 
• Define Key Terms : Define any key terms or concepts that may be unfamiliar to your readers but are essential for understanding your argument. 
• Provide Relevant Statistics:  Use statistics or facts to highlight the significance of the issue you’re discussing. For instance, “According to a report by Statista, the number of social media users is expected to reach 4.41 billion by 2025.” 
• Discuss the Evolution:  Mention previous research or studies that have been conducted on the topic, especially those that are relevant to your argument. Mention key milestones or developments that have shaped its current impact. You can also outline some of the major effects of social media. For example, you can briefly describe how social media has evolved, including positives such as increased connectivity and issues like cyberbullying and privacy concerns. 
• Transition to Your Thesis:  Use the background information to lead into your thesis statement, which should clearly state the main argument or purpose of your essay. For example, “Given its pervasive influence, it is crucial to examine the impact of social media on mental health.” 

A thesis statement is a concise summary of the main point or claim of an essay, research paper, or other type of academic writing. It appears near the end of the introduction. Here’s how to write a thesis statement: 

• Identify the topic:  Start by identifying the topic of your essay. For example, if your essay is about the importance of exercise for overall health, your topic is “exercise.” 
• State your position:  Next, state your position or claim about the topic. This is the main argument or point you want to make. For example, if you believe that regular exercise is crucial for maintaining good health, your position could be: “Regular exercise is essential for maintaining good health.” 
• Support your position:  Provide a brief overview of the reasons or evidence that support your position. These will be the main points of your essay. For example, if you’re writing an essay about the importance of exercise, you could mention the physical health benefits, mental health benefits, and the role of exercise in disease prevention. 
• Make it specific:  Ensure your thesis statement clearly states what you will discuss in your essay. For example, instead of saying, “Exercise is good for you,” you could say, “Regular exercise, including cardiovascular and strength training, can improve overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.” 

Examples of essay introduction 

Here are examples of essay introductions for different types of essays: 

Argumentative Essay Introduction Example:  

Topic: Should the voting age be lowered to 16? 

“The question of whether the voting age should be lowered to 16 has sparked nationwide debate. While some argue that 16-year-olds lack the requisite maturity and knowledge to make informed decisions, others argue that doing so would imbue young people with agency and give them a voice in shaping their future.” 

Expository Essay Introduction Example  

Topic: The benefits of regular exercise 

“In today’s fast-paced world, the importance of regular exercise cannot be overstated. From improving physical health to boosting mental well-being, the benefits of exercise are numerous and far-reaching. This essay will examine the various advantages of regular exercise and provide tips on incorporating it into your daily routine.” 

Text: “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee 

“Harper Lee’s novel, ‘To Kill a Mockingbird,’ is a timeless classic that explores themes of racism, injustice, and morality in the American South. Through the eyes of young Scout Finch, the reader is taken on a journey that challenges societal norms and forces characters to confront their prejudices. This essay will analyze the novel’s use of symbolism, character development, and narrative structure to uncover its deeper meaning and relevance to contemporary society.” 

• Engaging and Relevant First Sentence : The opening sentence captures the reader’s attention and relates directly to the topic. 
• Background Information : Enough background information is introduced to provide context for the thesis statement. 
• Definition of Important Terms : Key terms or concepts that might be unfamiliar to the audience or are central to the argument are defined. 
• Clear Thesis Statement : The thesis statement presents the main point or argument of the essay. 
• Relevance to Main Body : Everything in the introduction directly relates to and sets up the discussion in the main body of the essay. 

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Writing a strong introduction is crucial for setting the tone and context of your essay. Here are the key takeaways for how to write essay introduction: 3  

• Hook the Reader : Start with an engaging hook to grab the reader’s attention. This could be a compelling question, a surprising fact, a relevant quote, or an anecdote. 
• Provide Background : Give a brief overview of the topic, setting the context and stage for the discussion. 
• Thesis Statement : State your thesis, which is the main argument or point of your essay. It should be concise, clear, and specific. 
• Preview the Structure : Outline the main points or arguments to help the reader understand the organization of your essay. 
• Keep it Concise : Avoid including unnecessary details or information not directly related to your thesis. 
• Revise and Edit : Revise your introduction to ensure clarity, coherence, and relevance. Check for grammar and spelling errors. 
• Seek Feedback : Get feedback from peers or instructors to improve your introduction further. 

The purpose of an essay introduction is to give an overview of the topic, context, and main ideas of the essay. It is meant to engage the reader, establish the tone for the rest of the essay, and introduce the thesis statement or central argument.  

An essay introduction typically ranges from 5-10% of the total word count. For example, in a 1,000-word essay, the introduction would be roughly 50-100 words. However, the length can vary depending on the complexity of the topic and the overall length of the essay.

An essay introduction is critical in engaging the reader and providing contextual information about the topic. To ensure its effectiveness, consider incorporating these key elements: a compelling hook, background information, a clear thesis statement, an outline of the essay’s scope, a smooth transition to the body, and optional signposting sentences.  

The process of writing an essay introduction is not necessarily straightforward, but there are several strategies that can be employed to achieve this end. When experiencing difficulty initiating the process, consider the following techniques: begin with an anecdote, a quotation, an image, a question, or a startling fact to pique the reader’s interest. It may also be helpful to consider the five W’s of journalism: who, what, when, where, why, and how.   For instance, an anecdotal opening could be structured as follows: “As I ascended the stage, momentarily blinded by the intense lights, I could sense the weight of a hundred eyes upon me, anticipating my next move. The topic of discussion was climate change, a subject I was passionate about, and it was my first public speaking event. Little did I know , that pivotal moment would not only alter my perspective but also chart my life’s course.” 

Crafting a compelling thesis statement for your introduction paragraph is crucial to grab your reader’s attention. To achieve this, avoid using overused phrases such as “In this paper, I will write about” or “I will focus on” as they lack originality. Instead, strive to engage your reader by substantiating your stance or proposition with a “so what” clause. While writing your thesis statement, aim to be precise, succinct, and clear in conveying your main argument.  

To create an effective essay introduction, ensure it is clear, engaging, relevant, and contains a concise thesis statement. It should transition smoothly into the essay and be long enough to cover necessary points but not become overwhelming. Seek feedback from peers or instructors to assess its effectiveness. 

References  

• Cui, L. (2022). Unit 6 Essay Introduction.  Building Academic Writing Skills . 
• West, H., Malcolm, G., Keywood, S., & Hill, J. (2019). Writing a successful essay.  Journal of Geography in Higher Education ,  43 (4), 609-617. 
• Beavers, M. E., Thoune, D. L., & McBeth, M. (2023). Bibliographic Essay: Reading, Researching, Teaching, and Writing with Hooks: A Queer Literacy Sponsorship. College English, 85(3), 230-242. 

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How to Write an Analytical Essay

Last Updated: August 25, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Megan Callaghan, PhD . Megan Morgan is an Academic Advising and Writing expert based in Augusta, Georgia. She has over 7 years of university teaching experience and more than 15 years of professional editing experience. She works as an intern for the Law Library of Congress, and is also a Professional Writing Center Consultant at Augusta University. Her key academic interests involve reference and subject librarianship, government information, and information organization. She provides personalized writing instruction, workshops, and support for AU students, faculty, and staff. Previously, she worked as a Graduate Program Administrator at the University of Georgia’s School of Public and International Affairs. She was a Graduate Advisor for three degrees in the departments of Political Science and International Affairs at the University of Georgia College of Arts and Sciences. She earned her Master’s in Library and Information Science from Valdosta State University. She also received both a PhD and MA in English from The University of Georgia, and a BA in English and Creative Writing from the Mississippi University for Women. She wrote her PhD dissertation on narrative structure and social change in novels by 18th-century British women writers. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 3,999,582 times.

Writing an analytical essay can seem daunting, especially if you've never done it before. Don't worry! Take a deep breath, buy yourself a caffeinated beverage, and follow these steps to create a well-crafted analytical essay.

Prewriting for Your Essay

• For example, "Stanley Kubrick's The Shining uses a repeating motif of Native American culture and art to comment on America's history of colonizing Native Americans' lands" is an analytical thesis. It is analyzing a particular text and setting forth an argument about it in the form of a thesis statement.

• If you're writing an analytical essay about a work of fiction, you could focus your argument on what motivates a specific character or group of characters. Or, you could argue why a certain line or paragraph is central to the work as a whole. For example: Explore the concept of vengeance in the epic poem Beowulf .
• If you're writing about a historical event, try focusing on the forces that contributed to what happened.
• If you're writing about scientific research or findings, follow the scientific method to analyze your results.

• Look for repeated imagery, metaphors, phrases, or ideas. Things that repeat are often important. See if you can decipher why these things are so crucial. Do they repeat in the same way each time, or differently?
• How does the text work? If you're writing a rhetorical analysis, for example, you might analyze how the author uses logical appeals to support her argument and decide whether you think the argument is effective. If you're analyzing a creative work, consider things like imagery, visuals in a film, etc. If you're analyzing research, you may want to consider the methods and results and analyze whether the experiment is a good design.
• A mind map can be helpful to some people. Start with your central topic, and arrange smaller ideas around it in bubbles. Connect the bubbles to identify patterns and how things are related.
• Good brainstorming can be all over the place. In fact, that can be a good way to start off! Don't discount any ideas just yet. Write down any element or fact that you think of as you examine your topic.

• This is an analytical thesis because it examines a text and makes a particular claim.
• The claim is "arguable," meaning it's not a statement of pure fact that nobody could contest. An analytical essay takes a side and makes an argument.
• Make sure your thesis is narrow enough to fit the scope of your assignment. "Revenge in Beowulf could be a PhD dissertation, it's so broad. It's probably much too big for a student essay. However, arguing that one character's revenge is more honorable than another's is manageable within a shorter student essay.
• Unless instructed to write one, avoid the "three-prong" thesis that presents three points to be discussed later. These thesis statements usually limit your analysis too much and give your argument a formulaic feel. It's okay to state generally what your argument will be.

• Example of supporting evidence : To support a claim that the dragon’s vengeance was more righteous than Grendel's mother's, look at the passages in the poem that discuss the events leading up to each monster’s attack, the attacks themselves, as well as the reactions to those attacks. Don't: ignore or twist evidence to fit your thesis. Do: adjust your thesis to a more nuanced position as you learn more about the topic.

• If you're not quite sure how all your evidence fits together, don't worry! Making an outline can help you figure out how your argument should progress.
• You can also make a more informal outline that groups your ideas together in large groups. From there, you can decide what to talk about where.
• Your essay will be as long as it needs to be to adequately discuss your topic. A common mistake students make is to choose a large topic and then allow only 3 body paragraphs to discuss it. This makes essays feel shallow or rushed. Don't be afraid to spend enough time discussing each detail!

Writing Your Essay

• Example introduction : Revenge was a legally recognized right in ancient Anglo-Saxon culture. The many revenges in the epic poem Beowulf show that retribution was an essential part of the Anglo-Saxon age. However, not all revenges are created alike. The poet's portrayal of these revenges suggests that the dragon was more honorable in his act of revenge than Grendel's mother.
• This introduction gives your readers information they should know to understand your argument, and then presents an argument about the complexity of a general topic (revenge) in the poem. This type of argument can be interesting because it suggests that the reader needs to think about the text very carefully and not take it at face value. Don't: include filler and fluff sentences beginning with "In modern society" or "Throughout time." Do: briefly mention the title, author, and publication date of the text you're analyzing.

• Example topic sentence : The key to differentiating between the two attacks is the notion of excessive retribution.
• Example analysis : Grendel's mother does not simply want vengeance, as per the Medieval concept of ‘an eye for an eye.’ Instead, she wants to take a life for a life while also throwing Hrothgar’s kingdom into chaos.
• Example evidence : Instead of simply killing Aeschere, and thus enacting just revenge, she “quickly [snatches] up” that nobleman and, with him “tight in her clutches,” she leaves for the fen (1294). She does this to lure Beowulf away from Heorot so she can kill him as well.
• The formula "CEE" may help you remember: Claim-Evidence-Explanation. Whenever you present a claim, make sure you present evidence to support that claim and explain how the evidence relates to your claim.

• Example of a quote : Instead of simply killing Aeschere, and thus enacting just revenge, she “quickly [snatches] up” that nobleman and, with him “tight in her clutches,” she leaves for the fen (1294).
• Example of a paraphrased sentence : The female Grendel enters Heorot, snatches up one of the men sleeping inside it, and runs away to the fen (1294).

• Example conclusion : The concept of an ‘eye for an eye’ was very present in the early Medieval world. However, by comparing the attacks of both Grendel's mother and the dragon, the medieval world’s perception of righteous vengeance versus unjust revenge is made clear. While the dragon acts out in the only way he knows how, Grendel's mother attacks with evil intent.
• Example conclusion with a ‘bigger world connection’: The concept of an ‘eye for an eye’ was very present in the early Medieval world. However, by comparing the attacks of both Grendel's mother and the dragon, the medieval world’s perception of righteous vengeance versus unjust revenge is made clear. While the dragon acts out in the only way he knows how, Grendel's mother attacks with evil intent. As we saw from the study of other characters, these portrayals may tie into an early Medieval perception that women had greater potential for evil.

Finalizing Your Essay

• Make sure to also format your essay correctly. For example, using a 12-pt standard font (like Arial or Times New Roman) and 1" margins is standard.

• If you are analyzing a film, look up the list of characters online. Check two or three sources to make sure that you have the correct spelling.

Analytical Essay Writing Help

Community Q&A

• Ask yourself "What am I trying to prove?" The answer should be in your thesis. If not, go back and fix it. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• If you are writing a formal analysis or critique, then avoid using colloquial writing . Though informal language may bring some color to a paper, you do not want to risk weakening your argument by influencing it with verbal slang. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Avoid being too vague. Vagueness leaves room for misinterpretation and in a coherent, analytical essay, leaving room for misinterpretation decreases the effectiveness of your argument. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

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• ↑ https://www.grammarly.com/blog/analytical-essay/
• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/brainstorming/
• ↑ https://www.bucks.edu/media/bcccmedialibrary/pdf/HOWTOWRITEALITERARYANALYSISESSAY_10.15.07_001.pdf
• ↑ https://lsa.umich.edu/sweetland/undergraduates/writing-guides/how-can-i-create-stronger-analysis-.html
• ↑ https://academics.umw.edu/writing-fredericksburg/files/2011/09/Basic-Outlines.pdf
• ↑ https://lsa.umich.edu/sweetland/undergraduates/writing-guides/how-do-i-write-an-intro--conclusion----body-paragraph.html
• ↑ https://lsa.umich.edu/sweetland/undergraduates/writing-guides/how-do-i-incorporate-quotes-.html
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/general_writing/the_writing_process/proofreading/proofreading_suggestions.html
• ↑ https://academicguides.waldenu.edu/writingcenter/writingprocess/proofreading

About This Article

To write an analytical essay, first write an introduction that gives your reader background information and introduces your thesis. Then, write body paragraphs in support of your thesis that include a topic sentence, an analysis of some part of the text, and evidence from the text that supports your analysis. You can use direct quotes from the text that support your point of view or paraphrase if you’re trying to summarize information. Finally, complete your essay with a conclusion that reiterates your thesis and your primary support for it. To learn from our English reviewer how to come up with your thesis statement and find evidence that supports it, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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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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Analysis Paper – Examples, Topics, & How to Write an Analysis

An analysis / analytical essay is a standard assignment in college or university. You might be asked to conduct an in-depth analysis of a research paper, a report, a movie, a company, a book, or an event. In this article, you’ll find out how to write an analysis paper introduction, thesis, main body, and conclusion, and analytical essay example.

So, what is an analytical essay? This type of assignment implies that you set up an argument and analyze it using a range of claims. The claims should be supported by appropriate empirical evidence. Note that you need to explore both the positive and negative sides of the issue fully.

Analytical skills are the key to getting through your academic career. Moreover, they can be useful in many real-life situations. Keep reading this article by Custom-writing experts to learn how to write an analysis!

❓ What Is an Analysis Paper?

📑 how to write an analysis.

• 💁 Analysis Paper Introduction
• 🏋 Analysis Paper Body
• 🏁 Analysis Paper Conclusion
• 📔 Analysis Paper Title

🔗 References

Before you learn how to start an analysis essay, you should understand some fundamentals of writing this type of paper. It implies that you analyze an argument using a range of claims supported by facts . It is essential to understand that in your analysis essay, you’ll need to explore the negative sides of the issue and the positive ones. That’s what distinguishes an analytical essay from, say, a persuasive one.

Analysis Paper Argument

The key to writing an analysis paper is to choose an argument that you will defend throughout it. For example: maybe you are writing a critical analysis paper on George Orwell’s Animal Farm The first and imperative task is to think about your thesis statement. In the case of Animal Farm , the argument could be:

In Orwell’s Animal Farm , rhetoric and language prove to be more effective ways to keep social control than physical power.

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill gives a great explanation of the thesis statement , how to create one, and what its function is.

But that’s not all. Once you have your thesis statement, you need to break down how you will approach your analysis essay to prove your thesis. To do this, follow these steps:

• Define the main goal(s) of your analysis . Remember that it is impossible to address each and every aspect in a single paper. Know your goal and focus on it.
• Conduct research , both online and offline, to clarify the issue contained within your thesis statement.
• Identify the main parts of the issue by looking at each part separately to see how it works.
• Try to clearly understand how each part works.
• Identify the links between the various aspects of the topic .
• By using the information you found, try to solve your main problem .

At this point, you should have a clear understanding of both the topic and your thesis statement. You should also have a clear direction for your analysis paper firmly planted in your mind and recorded in writing.

This will give you what you need to produce the paper’s outline.

You are usually assigned to analyze an article, a book, a movie, or an event. If you need to write your analytical essay on a book or an article, you’ll have to analyze the style of the text, its main points, and the author’s purported goals.

These are the steps to write an academic paper :

• Review the literature . Before starting any paper, you should familiarize yourself with what has already been written in the field. And the analytical essay is no exception. The easiest way is to search on the web for the information.
• Brainstorm ideas. After you’ve done your search, it is time for a brainstorm! Make a list of topics for your analysis essay, and then choose the best one. Generate your thesis statement in the same way.
• Prepare an outline . Now, when you’ve decided on the topic and the thesis statement of your analytical essay, think of its structure. Below you will find more detailed information on how your paper should be structured.
• Write the first draft. You’ve done a lot of work by now. Congratulations! Your next goal is to write the first version of your analysis essay, using all the notes that you have. Remember, you don’t need to make it perfect!
• Polish your draft. Now take your time to polish and edit your draft to transform it into the paper’s final version.

An outline is the starting point for your work. A typical analytical essay features the usual essay structure. A 500-word essay should consist of a one-paragraph introduction, a three-paragraph body, and a one-paragraph conclusion. Find below a great analytical essay outline sample. Feel free to use it as an example when doing your own work!

Analysis Paper: Introduction

• Start with a startling statement or provocative question.

“All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal.” Animal Farm abounds in ironic and provocative phrases to start an analytical essay.

• Introduce the work and its author.
• Give background information that would help the reader understand your opinion.
• Formulate a thesis statement informing the reader about the purpose of the essay. Essay format does not presuppose telling everything possible on the given topic. Thus, a thesis statement tells what you are going to say, implying what you will not discuss, establishing the limits.

In Animal Farm, Orwell uses different irony types to ridicule totalitarianism to manifest its inability to make every member of society equal and happy.

Analysis Paper: Body

The analytical essay structure requires 2-3 developmental paragraphs, each dedicated to one separate idea confirming your thesis statement. The following template should be used for each of the body paragraphs.

• Start with a topic sentence that supports an aspect of your thesis.

Dramatic irony is used in Animal Farm to point out society’s ignorance.

• Continue with textual evidence (paraphrase, summary, direct quotations, specific details). Use several examples that substantiate the topic sentence.

Animals are unaware of the fact that Boxer was never sent to the hospital. He was sent to the slaughterhouse. However, the reader and writer understand that this is a lie.

• Conclude with an explanation.

By allowing the readers to learn some essential facts before the characters, dramatic irony creates suspense and shows how easy it is to persuade and manipulate the public.

Analysis Paper Conclusion

The next four points will give you a short instruction on how to conclude an analytical essay.

• Never use new information or topics here.
• Restate your thesis in a different formulation.
• Summarize the body paragraphs.
• Comment on the analyzed text from a new perspective.

💁 Analysis Paper Introduction Example

You must understand how to compose an introduction to an analysis paper. The University of Wollongong describes the introduction as a “map” of any writing. When writing the introduction, follow these steps:

• Provide a lead-in for the reader by offering a general introduction to the topic of the paper.
• Include your thesis statement , which shifts the reader from the generalized introduction to the specific topic and its related issues to your unique take on the essay topic.
• Present a general outline of the analysis paper.

Watch this great video for further instructions on how to write an introduction to an analysis essay.

Example of an Analytical Essay Introduction

“Four legs good, two legs bad” is one of the many postulates invented by George Orwell for his characters in Animal Farm to vest them with socialist ideology and control over the animal population. The social revolution on Manor Farm was built on language instruments, first for the collective success of the animals, and later for the power consolidation by the pigs. The novel was written in 1945 when the transition from limitless freedoms of socialist countries transformed into dictatorship. Through his animal protagonists, the author analyzes the reasons for peoples’ belief in the totalitarian regime. In Orwell’s Animal Farm , rhetoric and language prove to be more effective ways to keep social control than physical power.

🏋 Analysis Paper Body Example

The body of the paper may be compared to its heart. This is the part where you show off your talent for analysis by providing convincing, well-researched, and well-thought-out arguments to support your thesis statement. You have already gathered the information, and now all you may start crafting your paper.

To make the body of an analytical essay, keep the following in mind:

• Discuss one argument per paragraph , although each argument can relate to multiple issues
• Strike a balance between writing in an unbiased tone, while expressing your personal opinion
• Be reasonable when making judgments regarding any of the problems you discuss
• Remember to include the opposing point of view to create a balanced perspective

The bottom line is: you want to offer opposing views, but you must pose your arguments so they will counter those opposing views and prove your point of view. Follow these steps when constructing each body paragraph:

• Choose the main sentence. The main or topic sentence will be the first line in your essay. The topic sentence is responsible for presenting the argument you will discuss in the paragraph and demonstrate how this argument relates to the thesis statement.
• Provide the context for the topic sentence , whether it relates to a quote, a specific incident in society, or something else. Offer evidence on who, what, where, when, why, and how.
• Give your analysis of the argument and how it adequately proves your thesis.
• Write a closing sentence that sums up the paragraph and provides a transition to the following paragraph.

Example of an Analytical Essay Body

Literacy can grant power, provided that there are animals who cannot read or write. In the beginning, the animals’ literacy and intellect are relatively the same. Old Major is the cleverest pig; he is the kind old philosopher, like Karl Marx or Vladimir Lenin. During his retirement, he develops a theory that all humans are the root of evil. His speech was the foundation for the pigs’ assumption of power. They refined his ideas into a new ideology and called it Animalism. They also learned how to read. It allowed the pigs to declare themselves the “mind workers.” Therefore, the pigs’ literacy assured the illiterate animals in their objective superiority.

Meanwhile, as the pigs were the intellectual elite, they were not supposed to work, which raised their social status by itself. Snowball tried to promote education among all the animals, but most of them failed to master the alphabet. This is a metaphor for the general public being predominantly ignorant and easy to manipulate. At the same time, Boxer and other animals that spend most of the day in hard work merely have no time to develop their intellect. Thus, the pigs’ intention to build a school for pig children was highly efficient. Unequal access to education and unequal ability to express one’s thoughts in perspective reinforce the social divide, making the pigs smarter and more powerful and undermining other animals’ self-esteem.

At this point, the pigs resort to propaganda and rhetoric. Squealer uses his oratorical gift to refine the pigs’ message to the other animals. Upon Napoleon’s order, he breaks the Seven Commandments of farm governance. At night, he climbs the ladder to change them, and once even falls from the ladder trying to change the commandment on alcohol. The “proletarian” animals soon forget what the Seven Commandments were like in the first place and are unsure if they have ever been altered. Further on, Minimus writes a poem praising Napoleon. Finally, Squealer replaces the Commandments with a single assertion: “All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others.” Language is no longer used to convince. It is used to control and manipulate.

🏁 Analysis Paper Conclusion Example

The conclusion is short and sweet. It summarizes everything you just wrote in the essay and wraps it up with a beautiful shiny bow. Follow these steps to write a convincing conclusion:

• Repeat the thesis statement and summarize your argument. Even when using the best summary generator for the task, reread it to make sure all the crucial points are included.
• Take your argument beyond what is simply stated in your paper. You want to show how it is essential in terms of the bigger picture. Also, you may dwell on the influence on citizens of the country.

Example of an Analytical Essay Conclusion

Because of everything mentioned above, it becomes clear that language and rhetoric can rise to power, establish authority, and manipulate ordinary people. Animal Farm is the simplified version of a communist society. It shows how wise philosophers’ good intentions can be used by mean leaders to gain unopposed power and unconditional trust. Unfortunately, this can lead to the death of many innocent animals, i.e., people, as totalitarianism has nothing to do with people’s rule. Therefore, language and oratory are potent tools that can keep people oppressed and weak, deprive them of any chance for improvement and growth, and make them think that there is no other possible existence.

Now you are ready to write an analysis essay! See, it’s easier than you thought.

Of course, it’s always helpful to see other analysis essay examples. The University of Arkansas at Little Rock provides some great examples of an analytical paper .

📔 How to Choose an Analysis Paper Title?

Choosing a title seems like not a significant step, but it is actually very important. The title of your critical analysis paper should:

• Entice and engage the reader
• Be unique and capture the readers’ attention
• Provide an adequate explanation of the content of the essay in just a few carefully chosen words

In the Animal Farm example, your title could be:

“How Do the Pigs Manage to Keep Social Control on Animal Farm?”

Analysis Essay Topics

• Analyze the media content.
• Analyze the specifics and history of hip-hop culture.
• Sociological issues in the film Interstellar .
• Discuss the techniques M. Atwood uses to describe social issues in her novel The Handmaid’s Tale .
• Compare and analyze the paintings of Van Gogh and George Seurat.
• Analysis of Edgar Allan Poe’s The Black Cat .
• Examine the juvenile crime rates.
• Describe the influence of different parenting styles on children’s mind.
• Analyze the concept of the Ship of Theseus .
• Compare and analyze the various views on intelligence .
• Analysis of The Yellow Wallpaper by Charlotte Perkins Gilman .
• Discuss the techniques used by W. Shakespeare in A Midsummer Night’s Dream .
• Analyze the biography of Frederic Chopin .
• Manifestation of the Chicano culture in the artwork An Ofrenda for Dolores del Rio .
• Similarities and differences of Roman, Anglo-Saxon, and Spanish Empires .
• Describe the problem of stalking and its impact on human mental health.
• Examine the future of fashion .
• Analyze the topicality of the article Effectiveness of Hand Hygiene Interventions in Reducing Illness Absence .
• Discuss Thomas Paine’s impact on the success of American revolution.
• Meaningful messages in Recitatif by Toni Morrison .
• Explore the techniques used by directors in the film Killing Kennedy .
• Compare the leadership styles of Tang Empress Wu Zetian and the Pharaoh Cleopatra .
• Evaluate the credibility of Kristof’s arguments in his article Remote Learning Is Often an Oxymoron.
• Analyze genetically modified food.
• Examine the influence of Europeans on Indian tribes in The Narrative of the Captivity and Restoration of Mrs. Mary Rowlandson .
• Describe the rhetoric techniques used in The Portrait of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde .
• The importance of fighting against violence in communities in the documentary film The Interrupters .
• Analyze indoor and outdoor pollution.
• Analyze the issue of overprotective parenthood .
• Explore the connection between eating habits and advertisement.
• Discuss the urgence of global warming issue.
• Influence of sleep on people’s body and mental health.
• Analyze the relationship between Christianity and sports .
• Discuss the concept of leadership and its significance for company efficiency.
• Analyze the key lessons of the book Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki.
• Examine the specifics of nursing ethic.
• The theme of emotional sufferings in the short story A Rose for Emily .
• Analysis of bias in books for children .
• Analyze the rhetoric of the article Public Monuments .
• Describe the main messages in Jean-Paul Sartre’s Nausea .
• Explore the problem of structural racism in healthcare.
• The reasons of tango dance popularity.
• The shortcomings of the American educational system in Waiting for Superman.
• Analyze and compare Erin’s Law and Megan’s Law.
• Analyze the James Madison’s essay Federalist 10 .
• Examine symbols in the movie The Joker.
• Compare the thematic connection and stylistic devices in the poems The Road Not Taken and Find Your Way .
• Describe and analyze the life of Eddie Bernice Johnson.
• Explore the social classes in America.
• Crucial strengths and weaknesses of the main translation theories .
• Elements of Analysis
• How Can I Create Stronger Analysis?
• How to Write a Literary Analysis Essay: Bucks.edu
• Essay Structure | – Harvard College Writing Center
• Analytical Writing: Looking Closely (Colostate.edu)
• Writing an analytic essay – UTSC – University of Toronto
• Organizing Your Analysis // Purdue Writing Lab
• How to Write an Analytical Essay: 15 Steps (with Pictures)
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How to Write an Analysis Essay: A Step-by-Step Guide

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by  Antony W

November 28, 2022

Are you struggling to write a comprehensive analytical essay and need a handy guide to help you get the assignment right? Or maybe it’s your first time to get this kind of an assignment from your instructor and you’re looking for a lead that can point you in the right direction? Then this guide is for you.

We show you, step by step, how you can write a high quality, in-depth, well-researched, objective analytical essay that will capture the attention of your instructor at a first glance.

Before we get to the steps to writing a convincing analytical essay, let’s first look at what an analytical essay is. 

What is an Analytical Essay? 

In analytical essay writing, students need to come up with an argument and then analyze it in-depth using relevant, supporting claims. Because the essay goes beyond the surface-level, students need to pay attention to the key arguments/points of the issue.

If your instructor has asked you to analyze a piece of writing, for example, you’ll need to examine the style of the author’s writing and determine why they chose to write the content the way they did. Your focus here is on the primary theme of the author’s work, including how they use literary devices and how they construct and support their arguments to enhance their message.

This kind of writing is different from argumentative essay writing and persuasive essay writing in the sense that instead of converting readers to support your side of the issue, your goal is to present enough analysis and examples that strengthen your argument, making the argument clear to the readers. 

How to Write an Analytical Essay Step-by-Step 

Follow these steps to write a comprehensive analytical essay based on the topic issued by your instructor:

Step 1: Pick a Topic for Your Analytical Essay 

This is the most critical step to writing an analytical essay, and it can be the difference between an issue that’s easy to research and one that takes you hours to find unique points to evaluate.

The right approach is to create a checklist of a number of analysis essay topics that you feel would make for a good analytical essay. Then, do some research on each topic on the checklist to see which one has sufficient data to support your analysis.

If the topic is too narrow, it will be hard to find enough to write, too broad and it may be difficult to cover everything in the essay. So find a balance by choosing a topic that will enable you to come up with a tighter and convincing essay without feeling too overwhelmed by the assignment. 

Step 2: Thesis Statement 

Now that you’ve researched your topic and have a rough idea of what your analytical essay will be about, it’s time to write a thesis statement. It should be thorough and precise, able to give your reader a clear picture on the topic.

More often than not, a thesis statement is the overall framework of your work. By reading the thesis statement, a reader should be able to understand what the whole essay revolves around.

Plus, as you write the essay, each section should closely relate to your thesis statement.

Step 3: Research Your Topic 

What makes a good analytical essay different from a boring piece of paper is the amount of research that goes into it.

So spare enough time for this step and dig up as much information as you possibly can.

A good rule of thumb is to list all ideas that you can find provided they’re within the topic of your analytical essay. Further, research each idea to see what you can find, then add at least three or four of the most powerful ideas to your essay.

Avoid weaker points, mostly because they don’t relate to the thesis statement. But if you have a strong feeling that they can help, include them sparingly in some paragraphs. 

Step 4: Create an Outline for Your Analytical Essay

Now that you’ve done in-depth topic research and collected the most important points for the essay, it’s time to take all that information and put it all together in the right template.

This is the step where you create a universally acceptable outline for the analytical essay.

Often, an analytical essay template is divided into three parts, the introduction, the body, and the conclusion. Although many analytical essays tend to have three paragraphs in the body section of the outline, some academics suggest that you can have up to five paragraphs if your essay is a bit longer.

We recommend keeping the outline to the acceptable standard, though. So try as much as possible to include only the most important points in the body section and leave the fillers out. 

Step 5: Provide Evidence to Support Your Analysis 

Having a list of your main points isn’t enough for an analytical essay. The paper has to include enough evidence to back up you’re argument.

Depending on the topic of your analytical essay, you can collect evidence from the primary source or secondary sources such as experiments, surveys, and quotes from authoritative journal articles.

You don’t have to overthink this part of the assignment. More often than not, your instructor will tell you the type of sources to include in the essay.

Make sure you add good evidence to the essay to make your argument more convincing. As you cite sources in your essay , don’t forget to indicate where you found them, and also explain how they relate to and support your claim. 

Some Handy Tips to Help You Write an Engaging Analytical Essay 

Up until this point, we’ve shown you how to write an analytical essay that your instructor will approve on their first review.

However, there are a few things you need to understand in order to write a more engaging essay. These are as follows:

1. Give Your Essay an Engaging and Interesting Title 

The title of your analytical essay should draw the attention of the reader at a first glance. Make it unique, engaging, and enticing.

If it helps to add curiosity to this section of the paper, don’t hesitate to do it. Also, your title needs to give the reader an idea of what the essay is about, but make sure it’s short and precise. 

2. Hook Your Reader in the Introduction 

If your analytical essay fails to capture your instructor’s attention in the introduction, chances are they’ll find the rest of the paragraphs boring to read.

Remember, the intro section is where you provide a roadmap for your essay. So use a hooking statement that piques their interest from the very first sentence.

More often than not, a good introduction in an analysis essay:

• Introduces the topic to the reader
• State the focus or purpose of the analysis
• Highlights the thesis, which is the overall summary of the issues you’ll include in the essay (based on your research in Step 3 above)
• Present the scope (or outline) of the essay 

In general, try as much as possible to grab the attention of your instructor from the very beginning. If you’re able to draw them in from the very first sentence, they’ll develop an interest in reading the rest of the essay and award you the marks that you deserve.

Below is a video tutorial that can help you write better introduction for your analytical essay: 

3. Observe the Following Rules When Writing the Body

The body section of your analysis essay needs to be as interesting as the introduction. This is where you show your research, writing, and presentation skills, and you have to be as precise as possible when doing so.

• You can include only one argument per paragraph, even if the argument relates to several issues.
• Make your arguments reasonable, regardless of the issue in question
• Use an unbiased tone, especially when you’re expressing your personal opinion 

Some analytical essays may provide you opposing views. And if that’s the case, you need to make sure the body section reflect arguments that are strong enough to counter those views while proving your analysis.

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Do You Need Help With Your Analytical Essay Assignment? 

Sometimes you have so many assignments to complete that writing an analytical essay and completing it on time becomes somewhat difficult. If that’s the case, seeking professional academic writing help is more or less a viable option.

At Help for Assessment, we can help you get your assignment completed in the shortest time possible. So you can worry less about meeting your instructor’s deadline and earn good grades at the end of the day. Check our essay writing service here for more details. 

Don’t worry if you’re on a tight budget. At Help for Assessment, we have the most comprehensive pricing plan that favors all clients, including those who are on a very tight budget. In fact, you get a 25% discount automatically applied to your first order. 

About the author 

Antony W is a professional writer and coach at Help for Assessment. He spends countless hours every day researching and writing great content filled with expert advice on how to write engaging essays, research papers, and assignments.