Analyzing a reading Tips on analyzing a reading In the opening paragraph, mention the title of the reading and the name of the author (or authors) and describe the author’s thesis and overall argumentative strategy. Then state your own thesis. Your thesis should sum up your evaluation of the author’s argument. If the reading is aimed at a particular audience (not just readers in general), show how the author attempts to persuade this audience. Show how the author presents the key arguments in support of his or her thesis. Comment, if you wish, on the way these arguments relate to the author’s main point. Evaluate the evidence the author gives in support of his or her key lines of reasoning. If the author makes unproven assumptions or provides weak evidence, point out these flaws; if the author’s reasoning is largely sound, explain why you find it persuasive. Write your analysis from the third-person point of view, and use the present tense: McGovern and Dole argue that . . . [not I thought that or You will see that or McGovern and Dole argued that]. Put most of the analysis in your own words, but include some quotations from the article to illustrate your points. Document these quotations using MLA style (unless your instructor prefers another style). For MLA guidelines, see section 54 in Rules for Writers. In your conclusion, sum up your evaluation of the author’s argument. Provide a works cited page that includes the reading you analyzed. Sample paper: LaShawn Freeman The reading that Freeman analyzed Back to the assignment Assignments list