how to write an article critique apa style

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Article Summaries, Reviews & Critiques

• Writing an article SUMMARY
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Writing an article CRITIQUE

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A critique asks you to evaluate an article and the author’s argument. You will need to look critically at what the author is claiming, evaluate the research methods, and look for possible problems with, or applications of, the researcher’s claims.

Introduction

Give an overview of the author’s main points and how the author supports those points. Explain what the author found and describe the process they used to arrive at this conclusion.

Body Paragraphs

Interpret the information from the article:

• Does the author review previous studies? Is current and relevant research used?
• What type of research was used – empirical studies, anecdotal material, or personal observations?
• Was the sample too small to generalize from?
• Was the participant group lacking in diversity (race, gender, age, education, socioeconomic status, etc.)
• For instance, volunteers gathered at a health food store might have different attitudes about nutrition than the population at large.
• How useful does this work seem to you? How does the author suggest the findings could be applied and how do you believe they could be applied?
• How could the study have been improved in your opinion?
• Does the author appear to have any biases (related to gender, race, class, or politics)?
• Is the writing clear and easy to follow? Does the author’s tone add to or detract from the article?
• How useful are the visuals (such as tables, charts, maps, photographs) included, if any? How do they help to illustrate the argument? Are they confusing or hard to read?
• What further research might be conducted on this subject?

Try to synthesize the pieces of your critique to emphasize your own main points about the author’s work, relating the researcher’s work to your own knowledge or to topics being discussed in your course.

From the Center for Academic Excellence (opens in a new window), University of Saint Joseph Connecticut

Additional Resources

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Writing an Article Critique (from The University of Arizona Global Campus Writing Center)

How to Critique an Article (from Essaypro.com)

How to Write an Article Critique (from EliteEditing.com.au)

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How to Write a Journal Critique Using APA Style

When you write a journal critique, you give a qualified opinion of the article. American Psychological Association format is most often used when writing articles relating to social and behavioral sciences. The sixth edition of the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association provides guidelines on how to structure, format and cite your critique.

Basic Format

When writing a journal critique in APA format, you must follow general structural guidelines. Format your paper so all of the text is double-spaced and there is a 1-inch margin on all sides. The APA recommends using Times New Roman in 12 point. Your paper should include four major sections: title page, abstract, main body and references. On the title page, list the name of your paper, your name and your school’s name all on separate lines.

On your abstract page, center the word “Abstract” at the top of the page without any additional formatting. On the next line, write a concise summary of your critique. This should be a brief summary about the article and your critique. Examples of points to make in this paragraph include objectively analyzing the article and evaluating its contributions to learning. This paragraph should be between 150 to 250 words.

On a new page, type your title at the top of the page without any additional formatting. Following a double space, begin writing your critique. Journal critiques analyze a variety of topics. Examples of issues you may want to include in this section include whether you found any errors of fact or interpretation, the author had any underlying assumptions or the author was objective. If you are critiquing a research journal, then consider discussing whether the experimental methods were described adequately, the procedures included enough detail to be duplicated or any content was duplicated.

In-Text Citations

To strengthen your journal critique, you may want to quote or paraphrase sections from the original article. Whenever you do this, you must include in-text citations. With APA style, you use the author-date citation system. If you mention the original author by name, then you only need to include the year of publication within parentheses directly following his name. When you quote or paraphrase a specific passage from the journal, include the page name at the end of the sentence in parentheses. This should be written as “p.” and placed before the final punctuation mark.

For references, your paper may only reference the journal that you are critiquing. To write this in proper APA style, write the author’s last name, a comma, first and middle initials and a period. Write the publication year in parentheses followed by a period. Type the name of the article title in sentence case followed by a period. Then, write the name of the journal in italics and title case, a comma, volume number, a comma, page numbers and a period. The volume number should also be in italics, but all text that follows should have plain formatting. For example: Hernandez, D. (2008). Choosing and using citation and bibliographic database software. Diabetes Educator, 34, 459-60.

• Purdue University: APA Formatting and Style Guide
• University of Illinois Springfield: Center for Teaching and Learning: How To Critique A Journal Article
• Purdue University: In-Text Citations: The Basics
• American Psychological Association: Basics of APA Style Tutorial

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10 Easy Steps: How to Write an APA Article Critique in 2024

Step 1: Understand the Purpose of an APA Article Critique

An APA article critique is a detailed analysis and evaluation of a scholarly article written in the American Psychological Association (APA) style. The purpose of this critique is to assess the strengths and weaknesses of the article, identify its main arguments, and provide a critical assessment of its content and methodology.

What is an APA article critique?

An APA article critique is a thorough examination of a scholarly article written in the APA style. It involves analyzing the article's structure, content, and methodology, and providing a critical evaluation of its strengths and weaknesses.

Why is it important to write an APA article critique?

Writing an APA article critique is important because it allows you to engage critically with scholarly literature, develop your analytical skills, and contribute to the academic discourse in your field. It also helps you understand the research process and learn from the strengths and weaknesses of published articles .

What are the key components of an APA article critique?

The key components of an APA article critique include a summary of the article, an evaluation of its strengths and weaknesses, an assessment of its methodology, and a critical analysis of its content. It should also include your own interpretation and evaluation of the article's findings.

Step 2: Choose an Article to Critique

The first step in writing an APA article critique is to choose a scholarly article that is relevant to your field of study or research interests. Look for articles that are recent, peer-reviewed, and have a clear research question or hypothesis.

How to choose an article to critique?

When choosing an article to critique, consider the following factors:

• Relevance: Choose an article that is relevant to your field of study or research interests.
• Recentness: Select a recent article to ensure that you are engaging with current research.
• Peer-reviewed: Look for articles that have undergone a rigorous peer-review process.
• Clear research question or hypothesis: Choose an article that has a clear research question or hypothesis that you can analyze and evaluate.

Where to find articles to critique?

You can find articles to critique in various academic databases , such as PubMed, JSTOR, or Google Scholar. These databases provide access to a wide range of scholarly articles from different disciplines.

How to access articles behind paywalls?

If you come across an article that is behind a paywall, you can try accessing it through your institution's library website. Many universities and research institutions provide access to academic journals and articles for their students and faculty members.

Step 3: Read the Article Carefully

Once you have chosen an article to critique, it is important to read it carefully and thoroughly. Take notes as you read and highlight key points, arguments, and evidence presented in the article.

How to read an article for critique?

When reading an article for critique, follow these steps:

• Skim the article: Read the title, abstract, introduction, and conclusion to get an overview of the article's main arguments and findings.
• Read the article in detail : Read the article carefully, paying attention to the author's arguments, evidence, and methodology.
• Take notes: Take notes as you read, highlighting key points, arguments, and evidence presented in the article.
• Identify the article's main arguments: Identify the main arguments or claims made by the author and evaluate their validity and persuasiveness.
• Assess the article's methodology: Evaluate the article's methodology, including the research design, data collection methods , and analysis techniques used .

Step 4: Summarize the Article

After reading the article, it is important to summarize its main points and arguments. This summary will serve as the foundation for your critique and help you organize your thoughts and analysis.

How to summarize an article?

To summarize an article, follow these steps:

• Identify the main points: Identify the main points or arguments made by the author.
• Condense the information: Condense the information into a concise summary, focusing on the most important points.
• Use your own words: Write the summary in your own words, avoiding direct quotations from the article.
• Include key details: Include key details, such as the author's name, the article's title, and the main findings or conclusions.

Step 5: Evaluate the Strengths and Weaknesses

Once you have summarized the article, it is time to evaluate its strengths and weaknesses. This evaluation will help you assess the article's overall quality and credibility.

How to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of an article?

To evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of an article, consider the following factors:

• Clarity and coherence: Assess the clarity and coherence of the article's arguments and structure.
• Evidence and support: Evaluate the quality and relevance of the evidence and support provided for the author's claims.
• Methodology: Assess the article's methodology, including the research design, data collection methods, and analysis techniques used.
• Validity and reliability: Evaluate the validity and reliability of the article's findings and conclusions.
• Biases and limitations: Identify any biases or limitations in the article's approach or analysis.

Step 6: Analyze the Methodology

After evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the article, it is important to analyze its methodology. This analysis will help you assess the article's research design, data collection methods, and analysis techniques.

How to analyze the methodology of an article?

To analyze the methodology of an article, consider the following factors:

• Research design: Evaluate the appropriateness and rigor of the article's research design.
• Data collection methods: Assess the adequacy and reliability of the article's data collection methods.
• Analysis techniques: Evaluate the appropriateness and validity of the article's analysis techniques.
• Sample size and representativeness: Assess the sample size and representativeness of the article's study population.
• Limitations and potential biases: Identify any limitations or potential biases in the article's methodology.

Step 7: Provide a Critical Analysis

Once you have evaluated the strengths and weaknesses of the article and analyzed its methodology, it is time to provide a critical analysis. This analysis should go beyond a simple summary and evaluation, and engage with the article's content in a thoughtful and critical manner.

How to provide a critical analysis of an article?

To provide a critical analysis of an article, consider the following strategies:

• Engage with the author's arguments: Engage with the author's arguments, evaluating their validity, persuasiveness, and relevance.
• Consider alternative perspectives: Consider alternative perspectives or counterarguments to the author's claims.
• Identify gaps or limitations: Identify any gaps or limitations in the article's analysis or conclusions.
• Suggest further research: Suggest areas for further research or improvement based on the article's findings.
• Provide your own insights: Offer your own insights and interpretations of the article's content.

Step 8: Write the Critique in APA Style

When writing the critique, it is important to follow the APA style guidelines. This includes formatting the critique according to APA style, citing the article properly, and using APA style for in-text citations and references.

How to format the critique in APA style?

To format the critique in APA style, follow these guidelines:

• Use 12-point Times New Roman font and double-spacing throughout the critique.
• Include a title page with the title of the critique, your name, and your affiliation.
• Use APA style for in-text citations and references.
• Include a reference list at the end of the critique, listing all the sources cited in the critique.

How to cite the article properly?

To cite the article properly, follow the APA style guidelines for citing journal articles . Include the author's name, the year of publication, the article title , the journal title, the volume number, and the page range.

How to use APA style for in-text citations and references?

When using APA style for in-text citations, include the author's last name and the year of publication in parentheses. For example: (Smith, 2024). In the reference list, list the full citation for the article according to APA style guidelines.

Step 9: Revise and Proofread the Critique

After writing the critique, it is important to revise and proofread it carefully. This will help you identify and correct any errors or inconsistencies in your writing , ensuring that your critique is clear, concise, and well-organized.

How to revise the critique?

To revise the critique, consider the following strategies:

• Read the critique aloud: Reading the critique aloud can help you identify awkward or unclear sentences.
• Check for coherence and flow: Ensure that your critique is well-organized and that your arguments flow logically from one point to another.
• Eliminate unnecessary repetition: Remove any unnecessary repetition or redundancy in your writing.
• Check for grammar and spelling errors: Proofread your critique for grammar and spelling errors, and correct them.

How to proofread the critique?

To proofread the critique, follow these steps:

• Take a break: Take a break from your critique before proofreading it to gain a fresh perspective.
• Read slowly and carefully: Read the critique slowly and carefully, paying attention to each word and sentence.
• Use proofreading tools: Use proofreading tools, such as spell checkers or grammar checkers , to identify errors.
• Ask for feedback: Ask a friend or colleague to read your critique and provide feedback on its clarity and coherence.

By following these 10 easy steps, you can write an APA article critique in 2024. Remember to choose a relevant article, read it carefully, summarize its main points, evaluate its strengths and weaknesses, analyze its methodology, provide a critical analysis, write in APA style, and revise and proofread your critique. Writing an APA article critique requires critical thinking , analytical skills, and attention to detail , but with practice, you can become proficient in this important academic skill.

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What is APA format for article critique?

APA format for article critique follows the guidelines set by the American Psychological Association. It includes specific formatting rules for the title page, abstract, main body, and references.

How do I structure an article critique in APA format?

To structure an article critique in APA format, start with an introduction that provides a brief summary of the article. Then, analyze the article's strengths and weaknesses in the main body. Finally, conclude with a summary and your overall evaluation.

What are the citation guidelines for APA format article critique?

In APA format article critique, you need to include in-text citations for any ideas or information you borrow from the article. Additionally, you should create a reference list at the end of your critique, following the APA citation style.

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How to Critique an Article: Mastering the Article Evaluation Process

Did you know that approximately 4.6 billion pieces of content are produced every day? From news articles and blog posts to scholarly papers and social media updates, the digital landscape is flooded with information at an unprecedented rate. In this age of information overload, honing the skill of articles critique has never been more crucial. Whether you're seeking to bolster your academic prowess, stay well-informed, or improve your writing, mastering the art of article critique is a powerful tool to navigate the vast sea of information and discern the pearls of wisdom.

How to Critique an Article: Short Description

In this article, we will equip you with valuable tips and techniques to become an insightful evaluator of written content. We present a real-life article critique example to guide your learning process and help you develop your unique critique style. Additionally, we explore the key differences between critiquing scientific articles and journals. Whether you're a student, researcher, or avid reader, this guide will empower you to navigate the vast ocean of information with confidence and discernment. Still, have questions? Don't worry! We've got you covered with a helpful FAQ section to address any lingering doubts. Get ready to unleash your analytical prowess and uncover the true potential of every article that comes your way!

What Is an Article Critique: Understanding The Power of Evaluation

An article critique is a valuable skill that involves carefully analyzing and evaluating a written piece, such as a journal article, blog post, or news article. It goes beyond mere summarization and delves into the deeper layers of the content, examining its strengths, weaknesses, and overall effectiveness. Think of it as an engaging conversation with the author, where you provide constructive feedback and insights.

For instance, let's consider a scenario where you're critiquing a research paper on climate change. Instead of simply summarizing the findings, you would scrutinize the methodology, data interpretation, and potential biases, offering thoughtful observations to enrich the discussion. Through the process of writing an article critique, you develop a critical eye, honing your ability to appreciate well-crafted work while also identifying areas for improvement.

In the following sections, our ' write my paper ' experts will uncover valuable tips on and key points on how to write a stellar critique, so let's explore more!

Unveiling the Key Aims of Writing an Article Critique

Writing an article critique serves several essential purposes that go beyond a simple review or summary. When engaging in the art of critique, as when you learn how to write a review article , you embark on a journey of in-depth analysis, sharpening your critical thinking skills and contributing to the academic and intellectual discourse. Primarily, an article critique allows you to:

• Evaluate the Content : By critiquing an article, you delve into its content, structure, and arguments, assessing its credibility and relevance.
• Strengthen Your Critical Thinking : This practice hones your ability to identify strengths and weaknesses in written works, fostering a deeper understanding of complex topics and critical evaluation skills.
• Engage in Scholarly Dialogue : Your critique contributes to the ongoing academic conversation, offering valuable insights and thoughtful observations to the existing body of knowledge.
• Enhance Writing Skills : By analyzing and providing feedback, you develop a keen eye for effective writing techniques, benefiting your own writing endeavors.
• Promote Continuous Learning : Through the writing process, you continually refine your analytical abilities, becoming an avid and astute learner in the pursuit of knowledge.

How to Critique an Article: Steps to Follow

The process of crafting an article critique may seem overwhelming, especially when dealing with intricate academic writing. However, fear not, for it is more straightforward than it appears! To excel in this art, all you require is a clear starting point and the skill to align your critique with the complexities of the content. To help you on your journey, follow these 3 simple steps and unlock the potential to provide insightful evaluations:

Step 1: Read the Article

The first and most crucial step when wondering how to do an article critique is to thoroughly read and absorb its content. As you delve into the written piece, consider these valuable tips from our custom essay writer to make your reading process more effective:

• Take Notes : Keep a notebook or digital document handy while reading. Jot down key points, noteworthy arguments, and any questions or observations that arise.
• Annotate the Text : Underline or highlight significant passages, quotes, or sections that stand out to you. Use different colors to differentiate between positive aspects and areas that may need improvement.
• Consider the Author's Purpose : Reflect on the author's main critical point and the intended audience. Much like an explanatory essay , evaluate how effectively the article conveys its message to the target readership.

Now, let's say you are writing an article critique on climate change. While reading, you come across a compelling quote from a renowned environmental scientist highlighting the urgency of addressing global warming. By taking notes and underlining this impactful quote, you can later incorporate it into your critique as evidence of the article's effectiveness in conveying the severity of the issue.

Step 2: Take Notes/ Make sketches

Once you've thoroughly read the article, it's time to capture your thoughts and observations by taking comprehensive notes or creating sketches. This step plays a crucial role in organizing your critique and ensuring you don't miss any critical points. Here's how to make the most out of this process:

• Highlight Key Arguments : Identify the main arguments presented by the author and highlight them in your notes. This will help you focus on the core ideas that shape the article.
• Record Supporting Evidence : Take note of any evidence, examples, or data the author uses to support their arguments. Assess the credibility and effectiveness of this evidence in bolstering their claims.
• Examine Structure and Flow : Pay attention to the article's structure and how each section flows into the next. Analyze how well the author transitions between ideas and whether the organization enhances or hinders the reader's understanding.
• Create Visual Aids : If you're a visual learner, consider using sketches or diagrams to map out the article's key points and their relationships. Visual representations can aid in better grasping the content's structure and complexities.

Step 3: Format Your Paper

Once you've gathered your notes and insights, it's time to give structure to your article critique. Proper formatting ensures your critique is organized, coherent, and easy to follow. Here are essential tips for formatting an article critique effectively:

• Introduction : Begin with a clear and engaging introduction that provides context for the article you are critiquing. Include the article's title, author's name, publication details, and a brief overview of the main theme or thesis.
• Thesis Statement : Present a strong and concise thesis statement that conveys your overall assessment of the article. Your thesis should reflect whether you found the article compelling, convincing, or in need of improvement.
• Body Paragraphs : Organize your critique into well-structured body paragraphs. Each paragraph should address a specific point or aspect of the article, supported by evidence and examples from your notes.
• Use Evidence : Back up your critique with evidence from the article itself. Quote relevant passages, cite examples, and reference data to strengthen your analysis and demonstrate your understanding of the article's content.
• Conclusion : Conclude your critique by summarizing your main points and reiterating your overall evaluation. Avoid introducing new arguments in the conclusion and instead provide a concise and compelling closing statement.
• Citation Style : If required, adhere to the specific citation style guidelines (e.g., APA, MLA) for in-text citations and the reference list. Properly crediting the original article and any additional sources you use in your critique is essential.

How to Critique a Journal Article: Mastering the Steps

So, you've been assigned the task of critiquing a journal article, and not sure where to start? Worry not, as we've prepared a comprehensive guide with different steps to help you navigate this process with confidence. Journal articles are esteemed sources of scholarly knowledge, and effectively critiquing them requires a systematic approach. Let's dive into the steps to expertly evaluate and analyze a journal article:

Step 1: Understanding the Research Context

Begin by familiarizing yourself with the broader research context in which the journal article is situated. Learn about the field, the topic's significance, and any previous relevant research. This foundational knowledge will provide a valuable backdrop for your journal article critique example.

Step 2: Evaluating the Article's Structure

Assess the article's overall structure and organization. Examine how the introduction sets the stage for the research and how the discussion flows logically from the methodology and results. A well-structured article enhances readability and comprehension.

Step 3: Analyzing the Research Methodology

Dive into the research methodology section, which outlines the approach used to gather and analyze data. Scrutinize the study's design, data collection methods, sample size, and any potential biases or limitations. Understanding the research process will enable you to gauge the article's reliability.

Step 4: Assessing the Data and Results

Examine the presentation of data and results in the article. Are the findings clear and effectively communicated? Look for any discrepancies between the data presented and the interpretations made by the authors.

Step 5: Analyzing the Discussion and Conclusions

Evaluate the discussion section, where the authors interpret their findings and place them in the broader context. Assess the soundness of their conclusions, considering whether they are adequately supported by the data.

Step 6: Considering Ethical Considerations

Reflect on any ethical considerations raised by the research. Assess whether the study respects the rights and privacy of participants and adheres to ethical guidelines.

Step 7: Identifying Strengths and Weaknesses

Identify the article's strengths, such as well-designed experiments, comprehensive, relevant literature reviews, or innovative approaches. Also, pinpoint any weaknesses, like gaps in the research, unclear explanations, or insufficient evidence.

Step 8: Offering Constructive Feedback

Provide constructive feedback to the authors, highlighting both positive aspects and areas for improvement for future research. Suggest ways to enhance the research methods, data analysis, or discussion to bolster its overall quality.

Step 9: Presenting Your Critique

Organize your critique into a well-structured paper, starting with an introduction that outlines the article's context and purpose. Develop a clear and focused thesis statement that conveys your assessment. Support your points with evidence from the article and other credible sources.

By following these steps on how to critique a journal article, you'll be well-equipped to craft a thoughtful and insightful piece, contributing to the scholarly discourse in your field of study!

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An Article Critique: Journal Vs. Research

In the realm of academic writing, the terms 'journal article' and 'research paper' are often used interchangeably, which can lead to confusion about their differences. Understanding the distinctions between critiquing a research article and a journal piece is essential. Let's delve into the key characteristics that set apart a journal article from a research paper and explore how the critique process may differ for each:

Publication Scope:

• Journal Article: Presents focused and concise research findings or new insights within a specific subject area.
• Research Paper: Explores a broader range of topics and can cover extensive research on a particular subject.

Format and Structure:

• Journal Article: Follows a standardized format with sections such as abstract, introduction, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion.
• Research Paper: May not adhere to a specific format and allows flexibility in organizing content based on the research scope.

Depth of Analysis:

• Journal Article: Provides a more concise and targeted analysis of the research topic or findings.
• Research Paper: Offers a more comprehensive and in-depth analysis, often including extensive literature reviews and data analyses.
• Journal Article: Typically shorter in length, ranging from a few pages to around 10-15 pages.
• Research Paper: Tends to be longer, spanning from 20 to several hundred pages, depending on the research complexity.

Publication Type:

• Journal Article: Published in academic journals after undergoing rigorous peer review.
• Research Paper: May be published as a standalone work or as part of a thesis, dissertation, or academic report.
• Journal Article: Targeted at academics, researchers, and professionals within the specific field of study.
• Research Paper: Can cater to a broader audience, including students, researchers, policymakers, and the general public.
• Journal Article: Primarily aimed at sharing new research findings, contributing to academic discourse, and advancing knowledge in the field.
• Research Paper: Focuses on comprehensive exploration and analysis of a research topic, aiming to make a substantial contribution to the body of knowledge.

Appreciating these differences becomes paramount when engaging in the critique of these two forms of scholarly publications, as they each demand a unique approach and thoughtful consideration of their distinctive attributes. And if you find yourself desiring a flawlessly crafted research article critique example, entrusting the task to professional writers is always an excellent option – you can easily order essay that meets your needs.

Article Critique Example

Our collection of essay samples offers a comprehensive and practical illustration of the critique process, granting you access to valuable insights.

Tips on How to Critique an Article

Critiquing an article requires a keen eye, critical thinking, and a thoughtful approach to evaluating its content. To enhance your article critique skills and provide insightful analyses, consider incorporating these five original and practical tips into your process:

1. Analyze the Author's Bias : Be mindful of potential biases in the article, whether they are political, cultural, or personal. Consider how these biases may influence the author's perspective and the presentation of information. Evaluating the presence of bias enables you to discern the objectivity and credibility of the article's arguments.

2. Examine the Supporting Evidence : Scrutinize the quality and relevance of the evidence used to support the article's claims. Look for well-researched data, credible sources, and up-to-date statistics. Assess how effectively the author integrates evidence to build a compelling case for their arguments.

3. Consider the Audience's Perspective : Put yourself in the shoes of the intended audience and assess how well the article communicates its ideas. Consider whether the language, tone, and level of complexity are appropriate for the target readership. A well-tailored article is more likely to engage and resonate with its audience.

4. Investigate the Research Methodology : If the article involves research or empirical data, delve into the methodology used to gather and analyze the information. Evaluate the soundness of the study design, sample size, and data collection methods. Understanding the research process adds depth to your critique.

5. Discuss the Implications and Application : Consider the broader implications of the article's findings or arguments. Discuss how the insights presented in the article could impact the field of study or have practical applications in real-world scenarios. Identifying the potential consequences of the article's content strengthens your critique's depth and relevance.

Wrapping Up

In a nutshell, article critique is an essential skill that helps us grow as critical thinkers and active participants in academia. Embrace the opportunity to analyze and offer constructive feedback, contributing to a brighter future of knowledge and understanding. Remember, each critique is a chance to engage with new ideas and expand our horizons. So, keep honing your critique skills and enjoy the journey of discovery in the world of academic exploration!

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What Steps Need to Be Taken in Writing an Article Critique?

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How to Write an Article Critique

Tips for Writing a Psychology Critique Paper

Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

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• Steps for Writing a Critique

Evaluating the Article

• How to Write It
• Helpful Tips

An article critique involves critically analyzing a written work to assess its strengths and flaws. If you need to write an article critique, you will need to describe the article, analyze its contents, interpret its meaning, and make an overall assessment of the importance of the work.

Critique papers require students to conduct a critical analysis of another piece of writing, often a book, journal article, or essay . No matter your major, you will probably be expected to write a critique paper at some point.

For psychology students, critiquing a professional paper is a great way to learn more about psychology articles, writing, and the research process itself. Students will analyze how researchers conduct experiments, interpret results, and discuss the impact of the results.

At a Glance

An article critique involves making a critical assessment of a single work. This is often an article, but it might also be a book or other written source. It summarizes the contents of the article and then evaluates both the strengths and weaknesses of the piece. Knowing how to write an article critique can help you learn how to evaluate sources with a discerning eye.

Steps for Writing an Effective Article Critique

While these tips are designed to help students write a psychology critique paper, many of the same principles apply to writing article critiques in other subject areas.

Your first step should always be a thorough read-through of the material you will be analyzing and critiquing. It needs to be more than just a casual skim read. It should be in-depth with an eye toward key elements.

To write an article critique, you should:

• Read the article , noting your first impressions, questions, thoughts, and observations
• Describe the contents of the article in your own words, focusing on the main themes or ideas
• Interpret the meaning of the article and its overall importance
• Critically evaluate the contents of the article, including any strong points as well as potential weaknesses

The following guidelines can help you assess the article you are reading and make better sense of the material.

Read the Introduction Section of the Article

Start by reading the introduction . Think about how this part of the article sets up the main body and how it helps you get a background on the topic.

• Is the hypothesis clearly stated?
• Is the necessary background information and previous research described in the introduction?

In addition to answering these basic questions, note other information provided in the introduction and any questions you have.

Read the Methods Section of the Article

Is the study procedure clearly outlined in the methods section ? Can you determine which variables the researchers are measuring?

Remember to jot down questions and thoughts that come to mind as you are reading. Once you have finished reading the paper, you can then refer back to your initial questions and see which ones remain unanswered.

Read the Results Section of the Article

Are all tables and graphs clearly labeled in the results section ? Do researchers provide enough statistical information? Did the researchers collect all of the data needed to measure the variables in question?

Make a note of any questions or information that does not seem to make sense. You can refer back to these questions later as you are writing your final critique.

Read the Discussion Section of the Article

Experts suggest that it is helpful to take notes while reading through sections of the paper you are evaluating. Ask yourself key questions:

• How do the researchers interpret the results of the study?
• Did the results support their hypothesis?
• Do the conclusions drawn by the researchers seem reasonable?

The discussion section offers students an excellent opportunity to take a position. If you agree with the researcher's conclusions, explain why. If you feel the researchers are incorrect or off-base, point out problems with the conclusions and suggest alternative explanations.

Another alternative is to point out questions the researchers failed to answer in the discussion section.

Begin Writing Your Own Critique of the Paper

Once you have read the article, compile your notes and develop an outline that you can follow as you write your psychology critique paper. Here's a guide that will walk you through how to structure your critique paper.

Introduction

Begin your paper by describing the journal article and authors you are critiquing. Provide the main hypothesis (or thesis) of the paper. Explain why you think the information is relevant.

Thesis Statement

The final part of your introduction should include your thesis statement. Your thesis statement is the main idea of your critique. Your thesis should briefly sum up the main points of your critique.

Article Summary

Provide a brief summary of the article. Outline the main points, results, and discussion.

When describing the study or paper, experts suggest that you include a summary of the questions being addressed, study participants, interventions, comparisons, outcomes, and study design.

Don't get bogged down by your summary. This section should highlight the main points of the article you are critiquing. Don't feel obligated to summarize each little detail of the main paper. Focus on giving the reader an overall idea of the article's content.

Your Analysis

In this section, you will provide your critique of the article. Describe any problems you had with the author's premise, methods, or conclusions. You might focus your critique on problems with the author's argument, presentation, information, and alternatives that have been overlooked.

When evaluating a study, summarize the main findings—including the strength of evidence for each main outcome—and consider their relevance to key demographic groups.  

Organize your paper carefully. Be careful not to jump around from one argument to the next. Arguing one point at a time ensures that your paper flows well and is easy to read.

Your critique paper should end with an overview of the article's argument, your conclusions, and your reactions.

More Tips When Writing an Article Critique

• As you are editing your paper, utilize a style guide published by the American Psychological Association, such as the official Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association .
• Reading scientific articles can be challenging at first. Remember that this is a skill that takes time to learn but that your skills will become stronger the more that you read.
• Take a rough draft of your paper to your school's writing lab for additional feedback and use your university library's resources.

What This Means For You

Being able to write a solid article critique is a useful academic skill. While it can be challenging, start by breaking down the sections of the paper, noting your initial thoughts and questions. Then structure your own critique so that you present a summary followed by your evaluation. In your critique, include the strengths and the weaknesses of the article.

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American Psychological Association.  Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association  (7th ed.). Washington DC: The American Psychological Association; 2019.

By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."