Introduction
An article review is a summary and analysis of another person’s or organization’s article or product. An effective article review provides a thorough summary and analysis of key elements of the article including purpose, content, methods, analysis and conclusions.
The introduction should contain information identifying the title, author, and publication information of the article being reviewed. It should also provide a brief description of the overall purpose and thesis of the article as well as the scope and organization used by the author to develop their ideas.
Body Paragraph 1 – Summary of Key Points
The body of an article review is where you will summarize and analyze the key elements of the article. The first body paragraph should focus on summarizing the main points and key arguments of the article in a concise yet thorough manner. This summary should identify the article’s central theme or purpose, give an overview of how the author developed their ideas throughout the article, and highlight the major supporting points and evidence used.
It may help to break the summary down using topic sentences for major sections or paragraphs within the article. Make sure to cite any direct quotes or specific evidence used in your summary using in-text citations matching the style guidelines. Your summary should cover between 30-50% of the review and convey the essential who, what, where, when, and why of the article.
Body Paragraph 2 – Critical Analysis
The second body paragraph transitions from summary to critical analysis. Here you will evaluate and assess the content and arguments of the article on a more analytical level beyond just recapping the key points. This is where you provide your own opinions and insights about the article’s content, organization, validity of evidence, strengths, weaknesses and overall effectiveness.
Some things to consider analyzing include the quality, relevance and sufficiency of sources and evidence used to support the author’s arguments. You may analyze the logic and reasoning used in arguments, assumptions or hypotheses stated, and objectivity versus bias. Consider examining the organization, flow and cohesiveness of ideas. Critique the effectiveness of writing style, tone, and ability to engage the reader. Determine if the purpose and thesis were successfully achieved.
It is important to back up any analysis or critiques with examples, quotes or references from the original article. Your perspective should be respectful yet critical, focusing on the intellectual merits and flaws rather than attacking the author. Link analysis back to the overall thesis, purpose and value of the article.
Body Paragraph 3 – Recommendation and Value
The third body paragraph shares your recommendation regarding the value or impact of the article. Here you will state whether or not you believe the purpose was effectively achieved based on the evidence and analysis presented. Explain if you found the ideas compelling and well supported or lacking in certain areas. Consider noting any questions left unanswered or new questions raised.
Express if you would recommend the article to others interested in the topic and why or why not. Conclude by tying together how your analysis links back to the overall thesis, key arguments and purpose of the original article. This paragraph wraps up your critique and perspective on the intellectual or practical value and contribution of the work.
Conclusion
The conclusion should briefly reiterate your overall assessment of the article based on the analysis presented. Restate the thesis and purpose of the original article. Summarize your perspective on the quality of arguments and evidence used. Finally, convey if the work achieved its intended purpose and your overall recommendation based on your review. The conclusion leaves the reader with a clear understanding of your perspective on the article.