What Does it Mean to Critically Analyze Something?

Critical analysis involves the evaluation and judgment of information put forth by journalists, organizations, authors and experts. In contrast to description, in which observation is used to recount what someone else has said or done, critical analysis utilizes a set of skills to form an opinion.

Evaluation

Evaluation involves the determination of the value of the object. For example, a book can be exciting, boring, worth reading or worthless pulp. To evaluate something is to give a reason or an opinion as to why an object has value or not. Passages in the book may not flow in a logical order, the premise is absurd or the characters never come to life.

Interpretation

Interpretation involves communicating the meaning of something in an original way. To interpret what a work of art is trying to achieve or how a painting strikes the eye is subject to an individual's unique point of view. It is a personal, albeit considered, response to the object being analyzed.

Inference

Inference is the perception of hidden or subtextual meaning or that which is implied. To infer is to reach beyond the face value of something and read between the lines. For example, a diatribe on the failure of government to protect the homeowner may be personal admission by someone who has defaulted on his mortgage.

References

• Birmingham City University: Critical Analysis
• The University of Texas at San Antonio: How Do I Analyze a Reading?

Resources

• Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College: Learning Lab Tips on Critical Analysis