How to Read Critically

Ideas and viewpoints: authors have messages and points of view in their articles, editorials, news stories, letters, or information on websites. We also have our own opinions. That's not a bad thing!

Ideas about important subjects lead us to find better ways of living. However, we must analyze what we read and determine if the author is using sound reasoning and solid evidence to convince us of a position. When we analyze that position, we gain further knowledge and form our own opinions-or we support positions we already have.

What does "critical reading" mean? It does not mean looking for what is wrong in a text. It means suspending your judgment on some text until you have

understood the message
evaluated the evidence to support the message
analyzed the writer's perspective
analyzed any techniques of persuasion used to get the message across

Reading critically enables us to reach deeper understandings without accepting incorrect information or judgments based on unsound reasoning and evidence.

But how do we read critically? How can we tell if writers are telling the objective truth or trying to persuade us without good supporting reasons? Some readings are long and complex. How can we break them down to analyze them? Start small, use a checklist, and ask some simple questions. Often, some "self-talk" or discussion with a classmate or teacher helps with understanding.

Before you begin:

Consider your purpose in reading the article. What are you hoping to learn?
Think about what you already know about the topic. If the reading contradicts what you know, the warning bells should start to sound.
Think about your own biases and perspective. You may have opinions about the subject, which can interfere with your understanding of the message.

Skim the article:

Consider the title. If the article is a chapter or section of a longer work, look at that title also. Does it present a simple message or indicate a particular point of view?
Are any images, diagrams, or charts used to illustrate the main idea, or are they used to sway your opinion?

As you read...

What is author's message? Can you tell what it is right away?
Does the language or persuasive tactics appeal to your emotions, especially prejudice or fear?
What is the writer's tone, and how does the tone affect your response to the text?
Are evidence or statistics used to support the author's ideas? If so, is the evidence based on scientific study and research, or is it anecdotal? If so, is the source identified? Is is a credible source? Is it current?
Does the writer use generalizations, inferences, or assumptions to support the position? (These are statements without support or reason.)
Does the reading represent a particular perspective or worldview? If so, whose perspective is left out?
Can you find out more about the author and his or her credentials? Jot some questions.

Download this checklist to guide your reading.

Download this focus chart that you can fill in as you read.