Analyse sources and arguments
What does it mean to analyse something?
To analyse something means to examine it in detail, explain and interpret it. Analysing sources means examining their components like arguments, claims, reasons, methods and evidence, and explaining how they work together to make a point or an argument.
In the context of critical thinking, analysis is a key preliminary step before evaluation. Good analysis ensures that your evaluation is founded on evidence and understanding, rather than on first impressions or superficial reasoning.
Mastering analysis will help you better understand how the authors of your sources approach problems, use evidence and formulate arguments. It will also help you to identify trends, patterns and gaps in your sources or in current research.