How to Critically Discuss: A Guide to Critical Analysis

If you’ve ever been asked to critically discuss a topic in an essay, you may have found yourself unsure of how to approach it. This instruction is common in university-level assignments, especially in the humanities and social sciences, but it can be deceptively vague.

So, what does critically discuss mean? Put simply, to critically discuss a topic means to go beyond describing or summarising it—to analyse it, question it, and evaluate it. It involves weighing up different perspectives, identifying assumptions, and making well-supported arguments.

In this guide, we’ll explain how to critically discuss in an essay, explore what a good “critically discuss” essay structure looks like, and offer useful critical analysis phrases to help you write with clarity and confidence.

What Does It Mean to ‘Critically Discuss’?

Critically discuss is a directive that expects both description and critical evaluation. It’s not enough to say what something is—you must consider how and why it is significant, and whether it holds up to scrutiny.
So, when asked "How to critically discuss something?" identify different viewpoints or theories.

The key difference between descriptive and critical writing is this: descriptive writing tells the reader what is happening; critical writing explains why it matters.

How to Critically Discuss in an Essay

Let’s break down how to critical analyse a topic in an essay into manageable steps:

1. Understand the question

Before you start planning, clarify what the question is asking. If it includes the words critically discuss, then it’s inviting you to explore the topic in depth, not just list facts or narrate events. Consider the scope of the question and the assumptions behind it.

2. Do a focused literature review

You can’t critically analyse a topic unless you’re familiar with the current debates around it. Read widely but selectively. Make notes on competing perspectives and methodological approaches.

3. Develop a clear argument

Your essay should centre on a specific line of argument. Even though you’re discussing different ideas, you need to present a coherent stance or interpretation.

4. Use critical analysis throughout

Critical analysis is not just for the conclusion; it should appear in every paragraph. Always ask:

What is the author’s main claim?
What evidence do they use?
What are the limitations or assumptions of their argument?

By continuously questioning the material, you’ll naturally develop a more critical voice.

5. Structure your essay logically

A strong critically discuss essay structure should include:

Let’s look at this in more detail.

How to Structure a Critical Analysis Essay

Many students struggle with how to format a critical discussion, but you can follow a typical essay outline. Here is a breakdown:

Introduction

Begin by stating what you will critically discuss and why it matters. Define key concepts and briefly outline the structure of your essay. You might include a thesis statement that signals your argument.

Main Body

This is where the bulk of your critical analysis happens. Each paragraph should begin with a topic sentence and then move into analysis. Don’t just present information—interrogate it. Ask:

How convincing is this point?
What alternative views exist?
What does the evidence suggest?

Conclusion

Wrap up by reinforcing your main argument and considering the implications. A strong conclusion will not introduce new material but will show how your analysis has led to a deeper understanding of the topic.

If you’re still unsure how to critically discuss a topic, think of it like a dialogue between sources, with you as the mediator, highlighting patterns, contradictions, and gaps.

How to Show Criticality in an Essay

Now that we’ve covered the structure, let’s explore how to show criticality throughout your writing. Here are some useful strategies:

How to Critically Analyse a Research Paper

Understanding how to critically analyse a research paper is a vital skill, especially at postgraduate level. Research papers present findings that should be assessed not only for their content, but also for their methods, assumptions, and implications.
Here’s how to approach it critically:

1. Examine the research question and objectives

Are they clearly stated? Do they address a significant problem or gap in the literature?

2. Assess the methodology

What approach does the researcher use (qualitative, quantitative, mixed methods)? Are the methods appropriate for the research aims? Are there any sampling biases, limitations, or missing data?

3. Analyse the data and interpretation

How is the data analysed? Are the results statistically or thematically sound? Are the conclusions logical and well-supported?

4. Consider the context and assumptions

Does the paper acknowledge existing research? Are there ideological, cultural, or theoretical biases influencing interpretation?

5. Evaluate the contribution

Does the study offer new insights? Is it replicable or generalisable? What are the implications for future research or practice?

By applying this lens, you move from passive reading to critical analysis, engaging with the research in a way that reflects scholarly rigour and depth.

How to Critically Analyse in Practice

Here are some sentence starters and critical analysis phrases to help you write more effectively. Use these sparingly and in context—they should support your thinking, not replace it.

Critically Discuss/Analyse Essay Example

Let’s consider a simplified example.

Essay question: “Critically discuss the effectiveness of social media as a tool for political engagement.”

A high-quality response might:

1. Introduce the topic and define key terms (e.g. 'political engagement')
2. Present evidence that social media enhances participation (e.g. during elections)
3. Contrast this with arguments about misinformation
4. Evaluate different academic viewpoints, supported by research
5. Conclude with a reasoned judgement, acknowledging both strengths and limitations

Read some critical review examples >

How to Answer a 'Critically Discuss' Question in an Exam

In an exam setting, a 'critically discuss' question can feel daunting, but it’s not about writing everything you know. It’s about showing that you can think analytically under pressure. Here's a fast and focused approach:

1. Unpack the question (1–2 minutes)

Underline key terms and identify exactly what you’re being asked to evaluate. Are you comparing theories? Assessing a claim? Clarifying this early will keep your answer focused.

2. Create a quick plan (3–5 minutes)

Jot down 2–3 key points that relate directly to the question. For each one, note:

Your main argument or insight
One piece of supporting evidence or example
A brief counterpoint (if relevant)

This will give your essay balance and structure, even if time is short.

3. Structure your answer clearly

Stick to a simple structure:

Intro (define terms + state your position)
Body paragraphs (1 paragraph per key point, with brief evaluation)
Conclusion (summarise your main argument + acknowledge nuance)

Even a short answer can feel complete if it’s logically organised.

4. Be analytical, not descriptive

Instead of listing facts, show your thinking. Use phrases like:

“A strength of this approach is…”
“However, this view is limited because…”

This signals critical engagement, which examiners reward.

Critical Analysis Matters

Learning how to critically discuss is one of the most valuable academic skills you can develop. It shows that you don’t just understand your subject—you can also think independently, question assumptions, and form well-reasoned arguments. These are precisely the qualities universities look for in high-scoring work, whether you're writing a first-year undergraduate essay or a postgraduate dissertation.

By breaking down complex topics, engaging with multiple perspectives, and drawing your own conclusions, you demonstrate true criticality—something that can’t be automated or faked. It takes time, practice, and reflection, but the results are well worth it.

Whether you're analysing a theory, debating a controversial issue, or reviewing a research paper, always ask yourself: Am I just describing, or am I really engaging? That’s the key to writing essays that stand out.

Frequently Asked Questions About Critical Analysis

How do you write a ‘critically discuss’ essay?

Start with a clear introduction and thesis, then present and evaluate different perspectives throughout your body paragraphs. Always support claims with evidence and end with a thoughtful conclusion.

How do you do a critical discussion?

A critical discussion weighs up arguments, identifies strengths and weaknesses, and leads to a reasoned conclusion. It’s about more than agreeing or disagreeing—it’s about showing depth of understanding.

What’s the difference between critical analysis and critical discussion?

Critical analysis is a technique (breaking down and evaluating), while critical discussion refers to the act of using analysis to debate or explore a topic in writing. A critically discuss essay should contain critical analysis.

What does critically discuss mean in university essays?

It means going beyond summarising to engage with arguments or theories. You're expected to evaluate, weigh evidence, and come to a reasoned judgement—showing your own thinking in the process.