1. Begin by asking yourself the following questions as you read or view the material you plan to critique:

• What is the author's thesis or purpose?
• What are the author's underlying assumptions or biases?
• Who is the author's intended audience?
• What arguments does the author use to support his or her thesis?
• What are the author's main conclusions?
• What evidence does the author use? Is this evidence accurate, complete, and fair?
• Are the author's methods and interpretations valid?
• Is the text well organized, clear, and easy to read?
• Does the text contribute to an improved understanding of the subject?
• How does the text compare with others on the same subject?
• Do you think the author succeeds in what he or she sets out to do?
  

2. Make notes in response to the above,

3. Find overall patterns

4. Form conclusions and opinions based on these patterns.

5. Develop your thesis from step 4.

6. Draft your essay.

7. Revise.

8. Proofread.

Visit the Writing Center at any stage in the above process.