A written critique is a comprehensive appraisal of a book or monograph related to the subject matter in
this course. Writing a critique can be a valuable experience for the following reasons:
1. Extensive critical reading helps students achieve a more comprehensive understanding of
the concepts included in this course.
2. Critical analysis of what is read aids students in becoming more discerning consumers of literature
in their respective disciplines/fields.
3. A written critique may help students develop the art of effective communication.
A critique requires an intensive study of an authors work which tends to complement readings associated
with the course.
A written critique includes a minimum of five basic elements:
1. Proper identification of the material read.
2. An abstract of the major ideas, points of view, postulates, and contentions of the author(s).
3. Critical evaluation of these ideas, viewpoints, and contentions.
4. An analysis of the implications of the reading to a particular field of interest.
5. References and citations used in the analysis of the text.
The first task is to identify the major ideas or contentions of the author(s). Try to determine the authors
justification for his viewpoint. Review the supporting data presented. Examine the logic underpinning the
authors conclusions. Seek out similarities and differences between what is being reviewed and, perhaps,
what has been written by other scholars or writers. When writing a critique, develop your own most
effective style. The abstract should be brief (it is not a review) but incisive, e.g., an effort to single out the
key hypotheses or major contentions of the author.
