7 steps of analysis (guide)

7 Steps of Analysis

1 – Analyse the title

- The title speaks volumes about the author’s intention, and determines the initial reaction that he/she would like to engender.

2 – First Impressions

- The first impressions that one has, are always the ones the author wanted to lead the audience to. As such, the primary themes are readily apparent if these impressions are written down immediately after reading.

3 – Structure

- The structure of the work can indicate what the author intended and how the audience is meant to approach the text. It also helps with finding textual evidence (stylistic devices, etc.).

4 – Subjects and Themes

- Identifying subjects and themes often allows one to find the original intent of, and even inspiration for, the work being studied. This helps to form the basis of a thematic analysis.

5 – Tone

- The analysis of tone often becomes clear after identifying the key subjects and themes present. This is a frequent task on exams, and helps to form the opinion of what type of work is being studied, as well as the author’s ultimate objective in creating it.

6 – Impressions (Part 2)

- After all of these steps have been taken, it is important to re-evaluate the first impressions with all of the elements that have been identified. What has changed? What theories have been confirmed? What theories have been eliminated?

7 – The deeper meaning

- All of these steps will allow one to answer the final key questions:

Why was this work written?

What did the author want to express (and how)?

Why did this work resonate with the audience?