The document provides instructions for effectively analyzing a written work in 4 steps: 1) do pre-reading activities and get an initial impression, 2) closely read the text and mark it up, 3) make judgments on logic, structure, style after accurate reading, and 4) read deliberately as the author intended to gain full understanding.

1. -Start by reading the autobiographical note
-Do the Pre-Reading Journal Entry assignments
-Consider the selection’s title
-Read the selection straight through for pleasure
-Ask yourself whether you liked it;
briefly describe the selection and your
reaction to it.

2. Read again, marking up the material
-Underline or highlight the selection’s main idea or thesis
-Locate the main supporting evidence
-Circle or put an asterisk next to key ideas
-Write “yes” or “no” beside points with which you agree
or disagree
-Use your dictionary
-Ask yourself if the initial impression of the selection has
changed; if so, why.

3. Make judgments after an accurate reading
-Where does the support seem logical and sufficient?
-Is the selection unified?
-How does the writer use transitions?
-Which stylistic devices are used? Which pattern of
development? (examine diction, tone, figures of
speech)
-How does the selection encourage further thought?

4. Books must be read as deliberately and
unreservedly as they were written.
- Henry David Thoreau