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 24; Final Draft due
October 8
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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