Writing Center
Youngstown State University

Critical Reading

Critical reading is actually a two-step process: reading for understanding and analyzing what you have read. When you are asked to evaluate a piece of writing, you must first be sure that you clearly understand what you have read. Only when you understand the author's viewpoint, purpose, and methods of support are you ready to critique the piece effectively.

Steps to Reading for Understanding

1. Identify the thesis statement and topic sentences.
2. Identify key words and phrases.
3. Look up new vocabulary.
4. Trace the organization (examine the order in which points are presented).
5. Identify the support for the thesis (examples, illustrations, arguments, etc.).

Once you understand what is being presented, you are ready to evaluate. As you re-read, it is helpful to jot down notes concerning the content; indicate the sections with which you agree/disagree, question the puzzling sections, mark the sections that seem contradictory or irrelevant, etc.

Analyzing What You Have Read

1. Does the article present facts or only opinion?
2. If the author offers opinions, are they well-supported? Are they too generalized?
3. Are the ideas developed logically and convincingly?
4. Does the author leave important things unsaid?
5. Are irrelevant or pointless details included?
6. What authority does the author have on the subject? What bias?
7. Does the article come from a reputable source?

It is nearly impossible to critically analyze everything about a piece of writing (unless it is extremely short). Attempting to do so often leads a writer into unsupported generalizations rather than a detailed criticism of the work. Your writing should focus on a single aspect of the work in question, such as the following:

1. Thesis Statement- Is it convincing? Logical? Do you agree/disagree with it? Why?
2. Supporting Details- Do they logically support the thesis? Is support of the thesis complete? Do you agree/disagree? Why?
3. Organization- How does it function in the essay? Is the essay well-organized? How does the author use transition devices?
4. Analysis of the Issues- Are they examined completely? Does the author cover all possible angles? What issues are left out, and why? Are you persuaded? Why (not)?

E-mail your comments and suggestions to the YSU Grant Team (cardcat@bgnet.bgsu.edu).