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Exam Guide
Dictionary

Analyse is used quite frequently by examiners. It’s a very specific word which, in this context, means:

1. “to examine in detail in order to discover meaning, essential features, etc.
2. “to break down into components or essential features”

So “analyse” requires you to demonstrate that you understand a particular issue or situation and can explain the key features of it. For example, a TV critic might analyse a new soap opera by looking at the characters, the situations they faced and how well the actors portrayed the characters. In a nutshell, analysing means to figure out why something is the way it is (which is why Psychiatrists talk about analysing....!).

One important point is that you can’t really analyse something until you’ve identified the key parts of the situation or issue. So it’s always a good idea to “brainstorm” first i.e. make a quick list of the key aspects of a situation. After this you should then look for any pattern/order in these key aspects. Finally you should put together a set of paragraphs which:

1. Identifies then quickly describes the key factors.
2. Explains any order or interconnections between these factors, or any notable features of them e.g. one being more important than the rest.
3. Explains why the situation is as it is!

Task
Using the suggested paragraph structure above, analyse why you decided to stay on at school/college rather than leave for work or a modern apprenticeship.

Analysis requires that you think carefully before you start writing - break the problem down, think about it, then write about it.

Task
Analyse how the introduction of cheaper DVD players might affect the Cinema market. (C2)