How should I write a critical analysis essay?

If you're struggling with structuring a critical analysis essay, remember to do these three steps for every line of argument:

1. Argument: Explain what ideas you believe the author of the text is trying to convey.

2. Evidence: Using quotations, reference a relevent piece of the text that supports your argument.

3. Explanation: Explain how your evidence supports your argument and how it links to the wider text. 

DF
Answered by Daniel F. English Literature tutor

6751 Views

See similar English Literature GCSE tutors

Related English Literature GCSE answers

All answers ▸

But how can we be sure that is what the author intended?


How do you analyse a poem?


What connections have you found between the ways in which Larkin and Abse write about religion in their poems? In your response you must include detailed critical discussion of at least two of Larkin’s poems.


How do I structure an essay comparing similarities and differences between two poems?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning