Whats a good way to start when analysing an extract of writing?

When analysing an extract i would begin by unpicking the question. For example, if the question asks how the writer portrays a specific theme through the use of devices, i may write out each device; language, structure and form, in different colours, so that i am then able to highlight the text when each device occurs. Additionally i may also focus on the semantic fields prevalent within the text, which may relate to the theme in question, for example, if the theme is gothic, i may be focussing on key tropes such as deathly and subterraneous imagery. After establishing an organised system to analyse the text i would begin by reading through the extract, highlighting key points as i go. Once i have highlighted the relevant devices incorporated within the passage i would begin to link the different points into categories, for example, i may link all the deathly imagery used throughout the extract by drawing lines between each highlighted point. I would then number each point, so that i can begin to grasp a rough idea of the structure of my essay. Finally i would then think about the specification for this specific section of the examination, to ensure that i have covered the correct proportions of information, for example, if this specific question is supposed to be 10% context i would then go over each point and attempt to link the point to some element of context relevant to the time, such as freudian beliefs regarding the subconscious during the era of gothic literature.