Writing an article review essay requires you to analyze and evaluate a piece of journalism or academic research. Your review should describe the article in full and also provide your own opinion on the content, validity, coherence and arguments presented by the author. Like any academic writing, an article review requires research, analysis and a clear structure. Here are the main steps to take when writing an article review essay:
Choose an Article
The first step is choosing the article you will review. It should be from a credible source, such as a peer-reviewed academic journal or reputable newspaper/magazine. The length of the article can vary but it should provide enough depth and detail for you to analyze. Avoid very short or very long articles that would make critical analysis difficult within the standard length of a review. You should also choose an article within your area of expertise so you can critique it knowledgeably.
Read Critically
Once you have selected the article, you must read it carefully several times. As you read, take notes on the key arguments, evidence and conclusions presented by the author. Notice how the article is structured and any writing techniques used. Be critical in your reading – are the arguments logical? Is the evidence sufficient? Does the conclusion follow from the preceding sections? Make notes on any strengths or weaknesses in the writing, research or reasoning. This critical analysis will form the basis of your review.
Research Context
Do not just read the article itself – you also need to research the context surrounding it. Find out about the author’s qualifications and potential biases. Look at other studies or literature on the same topic and note how this article compares or adds to the discussion. Consult relevant theoretical perspectives or frameworks to aid your analysis. Developing an understanding of where this article fits into the bigger picture will strengthen your critique.
Create an Outline
Once you have analyzed the article and contextualized its content through additional research, create a structured outline for your review. It should follow a standard introduction-body-conclusion format with clear headings and paragraph breaks. Decide how you will summarize the article, discuss its strengths and weaknesses, evaluate its arguments/evidence and conclude your assessment. Your outline provides the blueprint for an organized, coherent review.
Write the Introduction
Start by drafting the introduction paragraph. Inform the reader of the article’s title, author, date and publication details. Clearly state the aim and scope of the review. The introduction establishes the context and overall judgement for the reader before the body paragraphs.
Summarize the Content
The first body paragraph(s) should provide an objective summary of the article without analysis or critique. Simply state the key topics, arguments, evidence presented and conclusions reached by the author in your own words. Keep the summary concise but comprehensive.
Analyze Strengths
The next body paragraph evaluates the article’s strengths. What arguments were well constructed and logically sound? Was the evidence thorough and from reliable sources? Did aspects of writing style aid clarity? Note aspects that were handled well by the author. Use examples from the text to illustrate your points.
Critique Weaknesses
Another body paragraph critiques the article’s weaknesses or limitations. Argue where the logic broke down or evidence fell short. Discuss omitted perspectives or doubtful assumptions. Again, directly quote the text to support your claims of inadequacy. Maintain a scholarly tone without personal attacks.
Compare to Literature
In the following paragraph, situate the article within the broader research context by comparing or contrasting it to existing literature. How did it compare in approach, findings or conclusions? How did it complement or depart from previous studies on the topic? Demonstrate through examples that you researched beyond the single piece.
Form Conclusions
The concluding paragraph restates your overall assessment of the article’s value. Briefly summarize the main strengths and weaknesses highlighted in your body paragraphs. Finish by leaving the reader with the significance of your review – how it contributes to scholarly discussion around this topic. Thank the author briefly for their insights.
Proofread and Edit
Ensure your review achieves a high standard by rigorously proofreading for spelling, grammar and consistency. Polish the flow of ideas, sentence structure and academic language. Verify all facts, figures and quotes are portrayed accurately based on the original article. Editing thoroughly is essential for a polished review that conveys your critique effectively.
References Page
Finally, compose a reference list citing the article reviewed in the proper academic style (e.g. APA, MLA, Chicago). Also include any other sources utilized in your contextual research and analysis. Formatting references correctly demonstrates academic integrity.
By following these steps you can write a well-structured, substantial yet critical review essay analyzing an article effectively. With practice reviewing various articles across disciplines, you will sharpen your abilities to understand, evaluate and discuss academic publications professionally. Overall, write clearly, logically back up your claims and situate your review within the wider research field.
Andrew Stroud