Process Analysis Essay
Definition
In the process analysis essay, the writer describes how
to do something or how something happens by describing the steps or stages in
the process. The writer breaks down the
process into steps and describes them in detail in order to inform or persuade
the reader about the process. Process
analysis by be used to describe a simple process such as how to bake a cake or
change the oil in a car, or it may be used to describe a complex process such
as scientific experiments or works of Congress.
Organization of a Process Essay
The process you are analyzing will dictate the structure
of your essay. Break the process down
into its component parts (or steps) and structure your writing around logical
divisions in the process you are analyzing.
Thesis Statements
The thesis or topic statement names the process that will
be described or analyzed. Often the
thesis contains an attitude or opinion about the process.
Examples:
Changing
a tire is easy if you follow the right steps.
Anyone
can fail a class if he tries hard enough.
It
is important for citizens to know how ideas become laws.
Tips on Planning
1.
First,
divide the process into logical parts.
Decide what actions you would take and in what order they would happen.
2.
Next,
list the individual steps or stages in the process, making sure not to leave
out any steps, including any preparation that might be necessary.
3.
Describe
each step in detail. Try not to leave
anything out. Remember that your readers
may not be familiar with the process you are describing, so your directions
will have to be explicit and complete.
4.
Anticipate
any problems that might arise at each step in the process, and tell the reader
how to avoid or remedy the problem.
5.
Avoid
incomplete details.
Essay Guidelines
Due
dates: Rough Draft due September 26;
Final Draft due October 10
Essay
length: 500 – 700 words (between 2 and 4
pages)
Rough
drafts can be typed or hand-written, but must be double-spaced.
Final
draft format:
Typed
(if this is not possible, please let me know)
1
inch margins
Name
and date on the upper right hand corner
Number
the pages on the lower right hand corner
Title
centered above the text of the essay
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