How To Write an Analysis (With Examples
and Tips)
Indeed Editorial Team
Updated July 31, 2023
An effective analysis can be valuable for making informed decisions based
on data and research. Writing an analysis can help you build support
around a particular idea, cause or project. Knowing how to write one is a
valuable skill for any career.In this article, you will learn what an analysis is,
why it's an important tool to use in persuasive communications and tips on
how to write one.
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What is an analysis?
An analysis is a detailed examination of a topic. It involves performing
research and separating results into smaller, logical topics to form
reasonable conclusions. It presents a specific argument about the topic and
supports that argument with evidence. You can perform an analysis to find
different solutions to a challenge in a variety of situations.
Why is analysis important?
An analysis is important because it organizes and interprets data, then
structures that data into presentable information useful for real-world
applications. For example, a marketing analysis interprets buying patterns,
market size, demographics and other variables to develop a specific
marketing plan.Related: How Analyzing Data Can Improve DecisionMaking
How to write an analysis
Writing an analysis requires a particular structure and key components to
create a compelling argument. The following steps can help you format and
write your analysis:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Choose your argument.
Define your thesis.
Write the introduction.
Write the body paragraphs.
Add a conclusion.
1. Choose your argument
The first step is to determine the argument you are making. The topic you
analyze should be specific so you can present a clear, focused argument.
This argument should take a strong stance so readers understand exactly
what your claim is.Example: "Corporations should provide more work-fromhome opportunities."This statement specifically refers to work-from-home
opportunities and takes a strong stance on the topic.
2. Define your thesis
Once you have your argument, you can begin crafting your thesis
statement. A thesis statement is normally one sentence that summarizes
the claims you make in your analysis. The claims should be narrow enough
to fit the scope of your argument. The thesis builds on the argument by
providing specific claims which you can back up with evidence in the body
paragraphs of the analysis.Example: "Corporations should provide more
work-from-home opportunities because it creates better work-life balance,
increases productivity and improves staff retention."
3. Write the introduction
Your introduction is a guide for your reader to understand what information
you will discuss in the analysis and in what order. Introduce the topic in
broader terms in the first few sentences, then state your
thesis.Example: "Every year, more companies are adopting work-fromhome days and seeing incredible benefits. Studies have shown that this is
one of the most desired job perks for employees and one of the most
advantageous for employers. Corporations should provide more work from
home opportunities because it creates better work-life balance, increases
productivity and improves staff retention."
4. Write the body paragraphs
Once you have your introduction, you now have a guide for the rest of your
analysis. Each component of your thesis statement should have its own
body paragraph and include evidence to validate each claim. Discuss one
argument per paragraph. Each paragraph will begin with a topic sentence
that clearly presents the specific argument you will discuss. Make sure you
back up each claim with evidence from a trustworthy source. You can use a
journal, book or statistics from a reputable online source. Cite your
resources to give the proper credit.
5. Add a conclusion
The conclusion should include a rephrased version of your thesis statement
and reiterate your main arguments. Explain the larger implications of your
findings and answer any remaining questions your reader might
have.Example: "Working from home is shown to decrease employee
stress, increase their productivity and boost job satisfaction. Many
employers understand these benefits and have adopted more flexible
working schedules. With satisfaction rates at their lowest in the last two
decades and job-related stress at its peak, it's important for more
companies to start considering the benefits of work-from-home days."
Analysis vs. summary
An analysis and a summary both discuss ideas and provide easier ways to
understand data, but they have very distinct ways of using and presenting
information. Here are the main differences:
Summary





Presents existing information more concisely
Identifies main points
States facts of what was said/done
States what was included
Reiterates thoughts or contributions of others
Analysis






Chooses a specific element/area to study
Examines and interprets data
Reaches conclusions based on evidence
Discusses the significance of elements
Discusses how elements connect
May discuss advantages and disadvantages
Related: Analytical Skills: Definitions and Examples
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Tips for writing an analysis
The following tips will help you write a reasonable and critical analysis:
Be explicit
There are many ways to interpret evidence, so it's crucial all evidence
explicitly connects to your argument. With every piece of evidence, follow
up with one to two sentences giving your own interpretation of how the
information links to your argument. Provide more insight if the evidence is
particularly significant.
Be balanced
An analysis should take into account all facts and present reasonable
judgments. If you find information that disputes your stance, analyze it, then
use strong evidence to show your argument is still credible. Use phrases
such as "This evidence suggests..." or "Many are in agreement that..." to
maintain a critical and credible analysis.Related: 5 Critical Thinking Skills
To Use at Work (and How To Improve Them)
Analyze all evidence
All evidence provides some level of relevance. Always analyze each piece
of evidence you present in your analysis, even if the evidence contradicts
your argument. Acknowledging data that may not fully support your thesis
can help you make an effective argument against it.
Make a mind map
It's helpful to brainstorm and create an outline before writing to collect and
connect your thoughts. Try drawing a mind map, beginning with a central
topic bubble. Write smaller ideas related to the topic around the outside,
then connect the smaller bubbles if there are clear patterns or related ideas.
As you connect ideas, themes will emerge. This can help you narrow down
your topic and create a thesis.
Frequently asked questions
What do you include in an employee evaluation?
While the format of an employee evaluation may depend on the company,
these reviews often include the following sections:

An overview of the employee's performance



An employee's strengths and potential areas for improvement
Recommended future goals for the employee
A rating or concluding statement about the employee
How do you write about an employee's strengths?
Consider the employee's work performance and interpersonal skills to
determine their unique strengths. This can help you write an evaluation
that's specific to the employee. Some employee strengths to mention may
include:






Self-motivation
Positive attitude
Ability to solve problems
Confidence
Attention to detail
Reliability
What areas of improvement can you mention in a performance
review?
Providing constructive feedback can help an employee set goals and boost
their performance. Some areas of improvement you may outline in a
performance review include:







Technical skills, like software proficiency
Customer service
Teamwork
Time management
Communication
Flexibility
Leadership
 
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