The difference between a summary and an analysis is the difference between "here's what the author said" and "here's how the author constructs the argument and why it matters." Professors want analysis, not plot recap.
What analysis is (and isn't)
Analysis: "The author's evidence relies on self-reported data, which may overstate correlation versus causation — a limitation the author acknowledges but doesn't fully address."
Three types of analytical essays
1. Textual analysis
Breaking down a text (article, book, poem, film) to show how it constructs meaning. You examine word choice, structure, tone, imagery — not just content.
2. Argumentative analysis
Examining how an author builds an argument. What evidence do they use? What's the logic? Are there gaps?
3. Interpretive analysis
Offering your own interpretation of what something means, supported by evidence from the text.
How to move from summary to analysis
Ask these questions instead of "what does this say?"
- How is this structured? Why this order?
- What assumptions does the author make?
- What evidence supports the claim? Is it sufficient?
- What's NOT said — what's missing?
- Who is the intended audience, and how does that shape the argument?
- What patterns or contradictions exist?
Structure for an analytical essay
- Thesis: Your interpretation or analytical claim (not just "the author argues X")
- Body 1: First element you're analyzing + what it reveals
- Body 2: Second element + what it reveals
- Body 3: Broader implication of your analysis
- Conclusion: Why your analysis matters
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Get essay feedbackCommon analysis mistakes
- Restating the text instead of examining it: This is summary, not analysis. Always ask "why" and "how," not just "what."
- Asserting interpretation without evidence: Your reading must be supported by specific details from the text.
- Losing your analysis in the details: Reference specific details, but always explain why they matter.
FAQ
Aim for roughly 20% quotes, 80% your analysis explaining what those quotes show. The essay should be driven by your thinking, not by quotations.
No — multiple interpretations can be valid, as long as they're supported by evidence from the text. Your job is to defend your reading convincingly.
Yes — you can analyze the argument while identifying its weaknesses or flaws. That's actually more sophisticated than agreement.