How should I structure a close analysis of a passage?

Begin by identifying where the passage falls in the novel or play, does it include a significant moment in the plot? Consider what precedes and follows it or any character development which takes place. After having read and made notes on the passage in question you should attempt to group your ideas into three or four main points, present these in your introduction.When writing your essay, try not to work through the passage chronologically but rather draw from different parts to support your argument. You should begin by clearly signposting the point you wish to make by writing a ‘topic sentence’. Next you need to give examples, use direct quotes and comment on specific features of the passage, be precise. It is important that you develop these examples, describing what notable literary techniques the writer has used and how they affect the passage as a whole. A nice way of opening your argument up is to tie it into the wider themes of the novel or play, does the passage conform with these themes or does it attempt to break with them? Use the critical material you have read either to support your argument or to introduce a counterargument. The last sentence of your paragraph should link back to your ‘topic sentence’ and so round up the point.Attempt to address your points in logical order and highlight the links between them, this will create a more cohesive argument and help guide the reader.