Steps for Writing an Effective Critique Paper The first step should always be to do a thorough read throughout the article carefully. More than just a reading, however, your reading needs to be in-d

Steps for Writing an Effective Critique Paper

The first step should always be to do a thorough read throughout the article carefully. More than just a reading, however, your reading needs to be in-depth with an eye toward certain important elements. 

Following these steps can help you make better sense of the material as you assess what you are reading.

1. Read the introduction section of the article.

Is the problems, objectives and hypothesis clearly stated? Is necessary background information and previous research described in the introduction? In addition to answering these basic questions, you should take note of information provided in the introduction and any questions that you may have.

2. Read the methods section of the article.

Is the study procedure clearly outlined in the methods section? Can you determine which variables the researchers are measuring? Remember to jot down questions and thoughts that come to mind as you are reading. Once you have finished reading the paper, you can then refer back to your initial questions and see which once remain unanswered.

3. Read the results section of the article.

Are all tables and graphs clearly described in the results section? Do researchers provide enough statistical information? Did the researchers collect all of the data needed to measure the variables in question? Again, make note of any questions you have or any information that does not seem to make sense. You can refer back to these questions later as you are writing your final critique.

4. Read the discussion section of the article.

How do the researchers interpret the results of the study? Did the results support their hypothesis? Do the conclusions drawn by the researchers seem reasonable? The discussion section offers students a good opportunity to take a position.

If you agree with the researchers conclusions, explain why. If you feel that the researchers are incorrect, point out problems with the conclusions and suggest alternative explanations. Another alternative is to point out questions that the researchers failed to answer in the discussion section.

* Note: Refer to journal attached