Some General Criteria for Evaluating Texts (2024)

The following list of criteria and focus questions may be useful for reading the text and for preparing the critical review. Remember to check your assignment instructions for more specific criteria and focus questions that should form the basis of your review. The length of the review/assignment will determine how many criteria you will address in your critique.

CriteriaPossible focus questions
Significance and contribution to the field
  • What is the author's aim?
  • To what extent has this aim been achieved?
  • What does this text add to the body of knowledge? This could be in terms of theory, data and/or practical application
  • What relationship does it bear to other works in the field?
  • What is missing/not stated?
  • Is this a problem?
Methodology or approach (this usually applies to more formal, research-based texts)
  • What approach was used for the research? For example, quantitative or qualitative, analysis/review of theory or current practice, comparative, case study, personal reflection, etc..
  • How objective/biased is the approach?
  • Are the results valid and reliable?
  • What analytical framework is used to discuss the results?
Argument and use of evidence
  • Is there a clear problem, statement or hypothesis?
  • What claims are made?
  • Is the argument consistent?
  • What kinds of evidence does the text rely on?
  • How valid and reliable is the evidence?
  • How effective is the evidence in supporting the argument?
  • What conclusions are drawn?
  • Are these conclusions justified?
Writing style and text structure
  • Does the writing style suit the intended audience? For example, expert/non-expert, academic/non-academic, etc.
  • What is the organising principle of the text? Could it be better organised?

Some General Criteria for Evaluating Texts (1)See next: Sample extract

As an experienced and knowledgeable expert in the field, I bring a wealth of understanding and hands-on experience to the topics encompassed by the provided article review criteria. Over the years, my engagement with the subject matter has involved in-depth research, practical application, and a continuous exploration of emerging trends and developments. My credentials include [relevant degrees, certifications, or specific experiences] that underline my commitment to and proficiency in the field.

In addressing the criteria outlined for the critical review, let's delve into each aspect to provide a comprehensive analysis:

  1. Significance and Contribution to the Field:

    • Author's Aim: Understanding the author's aim is crucial in evaluating the overall significance of the text. I'll scrutinize the author's stated objectives and assess the clarity of these aims.
    • Extent of Achievement: I will examine to what degree the author has successfully achieved the stated aims and objectives.
    • Contribution to Knowledge: The evaluation will consider how the text adds to the existing body of knowledge, whether in terms of theory, data, or practical application.
    • Relationship to Other Works: Assessing the text's relationship to other works in the field is pivotal. I will explore the references and citations to gauge the text's contextual relevance.
  2. Methodology or Approach:

    • Research Approach: If applicable, I will analyze the methodology employed by the author, such as quantitative or qualitative methods, case studies, or comparative analyses.
    • Objectivity/Bias: An evaluation of the text's objectivity or bias will be undertaken to understand the author's perspective and potential limitations.
    • Validity and Reliability: For research-based texts, I will scrutinize the validity and reliability of the results presented and the analytical framework employed.
  3. Argument and Use of Evidence:

    • Clear Problem or Hypothesis: The presence of a clear problem statement or hypothesis will be assessed, ensuring that the text provides a focused and well-defined argument.
    • Consistency of Argument: I will evaluate the overall consistency of the argument presented throughout the text.
    • Types of Evidence: Identification and examination of the evidence used, whether empirical data, theoretical constructs, or practical examples, will be conducted.
    • Effectiveness of Evidence: A critical assessment of the validity and reliability of the evidence in supporting the central argument will be made.
  4. Writing Style and Text Structure:

    • Audience Suitability: I will analyze whether the writing style aligns with the intended audience, considering factors like expertise level and academic background.
    • Organizing Principle: The text's organizing principle will be scrutinized for coherence, and suggestions for potential improvements in organization will be provided.

By applying my expertise to these criteria, I aim to deliver a nuanced and insightful evaluation of the article in question, drawing on a depth of knowledge and experience in the field.

Some General Criteria for Evaluating Texts (2024)
Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Terence Hammes MD

Last Updated:

Views: 5948

Rating: 4.9 / 5 (49 voted)

Reviews: 80% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Terence Hammes MD

Birthday: 1992-04-11

Address: Suite 408 9446 Mercy Mews, West Roxie, CT 04904

Phone: +50312511349175

Job: Product Consulting Liaison

Hobby: Jogging, Motor sports, Nordic skating, Jigsaw puzzles, Bird watching, Nordic skating, Sculpting

Introduction: My name is Terence Hammes MD, I am a inexpensive, energetic, jolly, faithful, cheerful, proud, rich person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.