How+to+Write+a+Good+Critical+Essay


 * Reminder: The key components of a good essay**

A Critical essay should have:
 * A PLAN
 * AN INTRODUCTION
 * TOPIC SENTENCES
 * PRESENT TENSE
 * QUOTATION
 * ANALYSIS
 * EVALUATION
 * RELEVANCE TO QUESTION
 * CONCLUSION

TITLE AUTHOR REFERENCE TO THE QUESTION THEME STATEMENT OF INTENT
 * INTRODUCTION**:
 * Remember, it is unnecessary to have a Plot Summary paragraph. However, Context is important, so you may include minimal background information within your introductory paragraph.


 * MAIN BODY OF ESSAY:**

Make use of the **PEE** technique here. This will help to ensure you structure your essay (and your paragraphs) in a sensible fashion.
 * POINT** – This is your topic sentence – or statement of intent – for your paragraph. In other words, state what the key focus for this paragraph shall be.


 * EVIDENCE –** Now it’s time for you to prove your **POINT** by backing it up with a clear, relevant quotation.


 * EXPLANATION** – Here comes the **ANALYSIS** and **EVALUATION**. Explain exactly how this quotation proves your point. Then explain how effective said quotation/techniques are to your understanding of the entire text.
 * REMEMBER – you must refer to the question/essay task. You must be able to demonstrate that you have understood what you are being asked to do. Otherwise, you may allow yourself to get distracted and off task.**


 * CONCLUSION**

Remember what you did in the **INTRODUCTION**? Well, your conclusion isn’t too dissimilar. Instead of saying this is what **I’m going to discuss**, state what you **have discussed**.


 * DO NOT ADD ANY NEW POINTS!** If you haven’t had time to write all of your key points, you don’t have time to start now. This is the paragraph where you sum up the points you have already made. It is not a book review, there is no need to praise the text and your enjoyment levels in a hyperbolic fashion. i.e. //‘This was most wonderful book I have ever read. That Shakespeare fellow was amazing...’// Okay? :)


 * EXEMPLAR TOPIC SENTENCES:**

“Imagery is crucial in understanding the theme...” “Setting clearly shows...” “Characterisation plays an important role in...” “A key incident in the development of the character...”

It is at this point that you may wish to refer to the question. Try to reword the question or reorder your words so as to avoid it sounding mechanical/repetitive.


 * Try to demonstrate your engagement with the text. You have studied them in depth, what positives have you taken away from the experience? What have you learned about the writer’s intended message? Although it’s not a personal essay, your personality and your viewpoints should be evident.**