Analytical Writing

Analytical writing can seem dry and boring, but it does not have to be. However, you are generally at a disadvantage when compared to creative writing. Let's face it, from a reader's perspective creative works are almost always easier to get through than analytical works.

What this means is that you must make you very best effort to be clear and concise when writing analytically. Make sure that your argument is clear, and try not to stray too far from it. And keep in mind the general writing tips that I discussed earlier.

In general you should avoid subjectivity when writing analytically. Saying "I think Foucault is really boring" is not a good way to support an argument.

If you are analyzing a piece of fiction, spend time looking at the author's technique. How is the piece written? Is it effective?

When examining theory or nonfiction look at the author's technique, but also make sure you examine the author's arguments. Are they well supported? Do you agree with them? Why or why not? How do they relate or apply to other works?

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