Need to locate an opinion piece? We recommend these databases:
The first step you'll take when writing a critique is to select the resource that you want to evaluate if one is not provided to you as part of an assignment. Since these requirements can vary across disciplines, these broad guides can help you select and evaluate materials in the library's collection to see if they are critique-worthy:
Tips for Success:
First, and most importantly, make sure that the item you have selected aligns with your assignment.
Once you select your source, you'll want to read through the entire resource at least twice.
If you've ever watched a movie or read a book more than once, you probably noticed things the second, third, or even fourth time through that you didn't pick up on when you made the first pass through it. Reading to write a critique requires that same level of repeated exposure to the work you're trying to analyze so that you notice those small details and have the opportunity to reflect on them.
Read first for understanding. You must have a broad understanding of what the resource is about before you can evaluate its effectiveness.
Read again for depth. Make notes, and ask yourself the key questions on this guide to help further your understanding.
Once you have made some notes, take a break. It helps when you can let the ideas "breathe" so that you have time to reflect. You'll write a stronger critique if you give yourself plenty of time.
As you read, consider the following questions: