what is commentary on a essay

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From Summary to Insight: A Guide to Writing Commentary Essays with Depth

Writing an essay can be daunting, let alone if you’re also providing commentary on it. But the reward of a job well done is worth the effort when you’re finished!

It has been noted that essays with thoughtful commentaries have a higher chance of being accepted for publication. So I’m here to help make it clear that essay writers need to understand the power of commentary and how to incorporate it into their work.

In this article, I’ll share my experience as a writer and provide insight on how to make your voice heard in an essay by using effective commentary. By following my advice, you’ll be able to craft a piece that stands out from the crowd and makes your thoughts shine through!

What Is Commentary In An Essay?

Over the course of your writing, you may have heard of the term ‘commentary’ in relation to essay writing. But what does it mean?

Simply put, commentary is analysis. It’s when you take a text and try to identify the deeper implications at play. In literary texts this could be symbolism, metaphors or dual meanings; with non-fiction texts it could include examining how an author makes use of evidence and arguments to support their position.

Writing a commentary essay requires close reading skills and the ability to interpret a wide range of information. It also requires you to think critically about how ideas are connected and draw conclusions about why certain elements are included in the text.

Commentary is an essential part of any essay because it allows your reader – who may not be as familiar with the text as you – to understand why you have drawn certain conclusions based on your interpretation.

It’s like giving them a guided tour through your thoughts and ideas so they can explore what makes your argument unique and interesting. Commentary also enables you to make connections between different aspects of the text that might not be obvious on first glance, helping bring out its significance even further.

By using commentary effectively, you can write an engaging essay that really gets your point across clearly.

The Significance Of Commentary In Essay Writing

Writing commentary in an essay can be a powerful tool for communicating ideas and arguments. It is essential to engage in critical thinking, interpretation, and analysis when writing commentary. Writing effective commentary requires the ability to construct a well-developed argument that supports the main point of the essay.

Here are 4 key elements of effective commentary:

A clear thesis statement
Relevant evidence that supports the argument
Interpretation and analysis of the evidence
A conclusion that summarizes the argument

Commentaries should be written with an engaging style that encourages readers to think critically about the topic at hand. Good literary commentary should be accessible, yet thought-provoking; it should both inform and entertain the audience. Additionally, it should challenge preconceived notions about a subject and provide an insightful perspective on why something matters or how it affects our lives.

In order to write effectively, one must first understand their audience and what they hope to communicate through their words. With this knowledge in mind, one can craft a compelling commentary that offers fresh insight into any given topic.

Transitioning seamlessly into the next section…

Key Elements Of Effective Commentary

Like the rising sun that signals a new day, effective commentary can offer a fresh perspective to an essay. With the right words and emphasis, it can engage readers in an entirely new way and bring them closer to understanding your argument.

Like a shimmering beacon of light, it has the power to grab their attention and draw them into your ideas.

Commentary does more than just summarize facts or provide background information – it also evaluates, interprets, and analyses information.

It’s an opportunity for you to delve into the heart of what you’re writing about, offering insight into its significance and exploring potential implications. By taking this approach, you can evaluate the importance of each point and develop your thesis with greater clarity.

Through thoughtful commentary, you can make connections between ideas that your readers may not have previously considered and help them reach their own conclusions about your argument.

Strategies For Writing Potent Commentary In Essays

Writing potent commentary in essays is essential to making a successful argument and gaining the reader’s interest. Here are four strategies that can help you write a good essay commentary:

Develop a strong thesis statement

A thesis statement serves as the core of your essay, and it should be explicit, engaging and supportable by evidence. It should also be concise so that readers can understand your main message immediately.

Understand the topic better

Spend some time researching the topic before you start writing to ensure you have a thorough understanding of it. This will give your commentary more depth and clarity.

Body And Paragraphs Organized

Make sure your body paragraphs are organized logically and clearly explain how your points relate to the overall theme or argument of your essay.

Each paragraph should have a single purpose, and make sure that all sentences within each paragraph work together to support that purpose.

Use literary analysis

When writing your commentary you can draw on elements like tone, imagery, diction, and syntax to make your argument more persuasive and compelling for readers. This will also help them better understand what you’re trying to communicate in your essay.

By incorporating these strategies into your essay writing process, you can create powerful commentary that effectively supports your argument and engages readers with meaningful insight into the text or topic at hand. With these tips in mind, let’s look at how to use quotations and examples in commentary to further enrich our arguments!

The Use Of Quotations And Examples In Commentary

Now that we’ve discussed strategies for writing powerful commentary in essays, let’s explore the use of quotations and examples when constructing these sentences.

Quotations and examples are essential for making strong commentary sentences that support an argument or analysis. When used correctly, they can be a great way to illustrate a point and add interest and texture to your argument.

When including a quotation in your commentary, it is important to make sure it is properly attributed. You should include both the author’s name and the source from which the quote was taken. This not only strengthens your argument by adding credibility, but it also shows you have done your research.

Examples are also effective for proving a point or introducing a new concept. They help to break up longer paragraphs, explain difficult concepts in more detail, and provide evidence or substantiation for an idea or opinion. When using examples in commentary sentences, it is important that they are relevant to the topic at hand and accurately represent what you are attempting to say in your essay.

With this information in mind, let’s move on to examining types of commentary in essays; comprehending the contrasts.

Types Of Commentary In Essays: Comprehending The Contrasts

As a student writing a commentary essay, it is important to understand the differences between analyzing, summarizing, and evaluating. To help comprehend these contrasts, let’s take a look at four main points:

1. Analyzing – Looking closely at something and breaking it down into smaller parts to better understand it.

2. Summarizing – Taking the information from a larger group of data and boiling it down into its key elements.

3. Relating – Exploring how two or more ideas are connected and how they affect each other.

4. Evaluating – Examining different aspects of an issue or argument and determining its worth or value by expressing an opinion about it.

Using these four points as a framework for writing your commentary essays can help you to be more effective in your analysis, summary and evaluation of any given topic.

Furthermore, this knowledge will also serve you well when crafting strategies for writing literary essays that contain thoughtful commentary elements.

With this in mind, let us now turn our attention to creating such strategies…

Strategies For Writing Commentary In Literary Essays

Having discussed the differences between types of commentary, let’s now turn to strategies for writing effective commentary in literary essays.

When it comes to providing commentary, it is important to understand that you are making a statement about something; whether it be an interpretation or opinion, you need to make a clear statement.

You should also comment on any phrases or passages that have stood out and explain why they are significant.

It is also important to identify the underlying message of the text. This means going beyond surface-level analysis and delving into the deeper meaning of the work.

To do this, think about what is not being said as much as what is being said.

Make sure your comments add depth to your analysis and provide new insights for your readers.

Finally, take care when constructing your sentences so that your points come across clearly and convincingly.

Writing Commentary For Convincing Essays

I’m sure you’re excited to finally get started on writing your commentary for a convincing essay! It can be intimidating to write about something without knowing what type of essay you’re working on. But if you take the time to read through the assignment and passage, you’ll have a much better idea of what you need to write.

When it comes to writing your commentary, try not to worry too much about “sounding smart” or “having all the right answers.” Instead, focus on writing like yourself—in your own voice, with your own ideas. The more authentic and engaging your writing is, the more persuasive it will be to readers.

So don’t be afraid to express yourself—you may just surprise yourself with how creative and interesting your thoughts can be! With that said, let’s move on to creating commentary that supports your thesis statement.

Creating Commentary That Supports Your Thesis Statement

As the saying goes, hindsight is 20/20. Looking back now, it’s clear that writing an effective commentary for a convincing essay requires some finesse and insight.

When starting to write, it’s important to have a good understanding of the topic you are discussing and to provide enough context for your audience to understand what you are discussing. Additionally, it helps to have an understanding of opposing viewpoints before you start writing so that you can avoid falling into common traps.

To create commentary that supports your thesis statement effectively, there are a few things you need to keep in mind:

1. Make sure your argument is sound and won’t be easily refuted by an opposing point of view.

2. Avoid introducing new evidence or topics in your commentary; instead focus on the evidence already presented in the essay body.

3. Take the time to help explain why certain evidence matters and why readers should care about it.

The goal of commentary is not just to express an opinion but also provide meaningful analysis that will help prove or disprove a point of view. By being mindful of these considerations when writing, it is possible to create effective commentary that will help readers better understand your argument and its implications.

Common Mistakes To Avoid In Commentary Writing

I think one of the biggest mistakes I can make when writing a commentary essay is to overgeneralize my points. It’s important to provide specific examples and evidence to back up my opinion and avoid making sweeping conclusions.

Additionally, when writing a commentary essay, it’s also easy to forget to include evidence to support my argument. Making sure to include evidence will make my piece of writing much more convincing and credible.

Avoiding Overgeneralization

When writing a commentary essay, it’s important to avoid overgeneralizing your topic.

Sure, it may be tempting to make sweeping statements about the issue at hand, but this won’t do justice to your argument.

Instead, try to focus on concrete evidence and facts that back up your opinion.

For example, include statistics or subjective accounts from experts in the field.

This will ensure that you don’t come off as too biased or uninformed in your commentary.

By avoiding overgeneralization and being specific in your evidence, you can present a much more convincing argument and captivate readers with innovation.

Remember: always strive for accuracy when building an argument!

Lack Of Evidence

When it comes to commentary writing, one of the biggest mistakes people make is not having enough evidence to back up their argument. Without any supporting evidence, your argument can easily be dismissed as biased and uninformed.

This is especially true when discussing contentious topics like politics or religion. It’s important to remember that you’re usually assigned a commentary essay for a reason—so make sure you have enough facts and figures to give your readers an informed opinion. Otherwise, you may struggle to convince them of your point of view.

To make sure your argument stands out from the crowd, research extensively and use concrete evidence whenever possible. This will show that you’ve put in the effort and will help ensure a more innovative outcome for your audience.

Tips For Revising And Editing Commentary

Revising and editing your commentary is an important step in writing an essay. It helps to ensure that you are conveying the most accurate and persuasive message.

To do this, it’s important to read through your writing again and summarize any points that you noticed while reading. This will allow you to make sure that each point is clear and concise. As students need to be able to write effectively, it is also important to pay close attention to the language used throughout the essay.

Looking for words that could be replaced with more precise ones or focusing on certain aspects of literature can help bring life to a paper.

It is also essential to check for grammar, spelling, punctuation, and other errors before submitting the essay. Making sure all of these elements are correct can help enhance the paper’s overall quality.

Additionally, as you review your work, look for any areas where clarification may be necessary. Taking a second look at what you wrote will help ensure that the reader fully understands all of your points and implications.

By following these tips when revising and editing commentary in an essay, readers can gain a clearer understanding of the author’s intended message.

Examples Of Strong And Poor Commentary In Essays

A necessary part of writing an essay is the commentary. It’s the all-important part that allows for a deeper understanding of what is being written and allows the reader to get a fuller picture of the writer’s thoughts.

Unfortunately, not everyone understands the need to understand commentary. Many writers think they can simply paraphrase their sources without paying attention to how they are using irony or antithesis, missing out on valuable opportunities to add depth and complexity to their work.

Commentary should be used to engage readers in a way that speaks directly to their subconscious desire for innovation. It should be written in a personal tone of voice with contractions and an engaging style that will grab readers’ attention and make them want more.

If done correctly, it can bring new life and insight into an essay, allowing it to stand out from the rest.

Paragraph Construction With Commentary

In this section, I’m going to be talking about paragraph construction with commentary. As part of writing an essay, it is important to think about how you are going to use literary elements and techniques to convey your main idea or argument. I was always taught by my instructor that the way you structure your paragraphs can really make a difference in how effective your message is.

So, let’s take a look at some tips for constructing well-crafted paragraphs that provide an engaging commentary.

First of all, try not to write too long of a sentence as this can lead to confusion for the reader.

Secondly, make sure that each paragraph has one clear point that ties back into the main argument or idea you are trying to convey in your essay.

Finally, use transition words and phrases as needed throughout the essay so that readers can easily follow along with your discussion.

All these steps help ensure that readers understand and appreciate what you have written in your essay. With these tips in mind, let’s move on to discussing transition words and phrases for commentary.

Transition Words And Phrases For Commentary

In the world of higher education, commentary is a powerful tool that can bring literature to life in a way that no other piece can. It’s almost magical how one can take an otherwise mundane poem and turn it into something extraordinary with just a few words. Commentary has the ability to transform isolation into coherence in ways that are simply astounding!

Here is a 4-point list for successful commentary:

1. Read the text multiple times before writing any comments.

2. Take notes on what stands out most to you.

3. Use concrete examples from the text to better illustrate your points.

4. Be sure to engage with your audience in a way that encourages them to think more deeply about the subject matter at hand.

Commentary is an invaluable skill for anyone looking to make their mark on a piece of literature, so use it wisely and always strive for excellence! With this knowledge, we can now move on to exploring how to write a conclusion with commentary – do’s and don’ts included!

Writing A Conclusion With Commentary: Do’s And Don’ts

Now that you know the transition words and phrases for commentary, it’s time to learn how to write a conclusion with commentary. It can seem complicated, but it doesn’t have to be.

One of the most important things to remember is not to rely too heavily on your homework. Spending too much time memorizing facts and figures won’t help you in the long run when it comes to showcasing your opinion. Therefore, try to focus on critical thinking skills instead of wasting time studying for hours on end.

While two sentences are usually enough for a conclusion, make sure that each one packs a punch and is full of insight and analysis. Hone your skills by getting feedback from others so you can refine your writing and develop a style that resonates with any reader.

This can help ensure that your concluding remarks leave an impactful impression on those who read them.

Overall, effective commentary is essential for producing a successful essay.

Writing commentary allows you to demonstrate your understanding and personal thoughts on the topic and can really amplify your argument.

By incorporating examples, quotations, and other evidence into your commentary, you are able to bring life to your writing in a manner that will make it stand out from the crowd.

As an age-old proverb says, “A picture paints a thousand words”; similarly, strong commentary paints an even grander picture of your argument.

With these tips in mind, I look forward to seeing you all write some truly standout essays!

Commentary Essay Guide

If you are a high school, college, or university student, you might have to write a commentary essay sooner or later. And whatever the subject may be, it’s better to be sure to provide substantial content and analyze the written discourse thoroughly. A commentary is quite good for completing that task.

There are several ways of writing a commentary, and we will examine all of the major ones. Depending on the subject and the requirements, you might write your commentary in the form of a separate paper with its own characteristics (usually assigned and explained by your tutor), a literary analysis, and data commentary.

Plus, a commentary can be part of any complete essay. If you are assigned a specific type, you are free to jump to it directly. If not, make sure to read the whole article and learn more about every kind of commentary essay.

Essay definition – read our general article to learn more about essays.

What Is a Commentary Essay? (As a Separate Paper)

A commentary essay is a written piece that provides an opinion on a particular subject. This type of essay is usually written in response to another piece , such as a blog post, article, or book passage. In a commentary essay, the writer will typically offer their own take on the situation, using evidence and examples to support their claims.

A commentary essay as a separate assignment is widely used among academic institutions. Such a paper aims to make students enable and use their critical thinking, analyze a subject, and provide an individual commentary essay.

For instance, the Purdue University Fort Wayne course ENG W131 relies on a commentary essay as a distinct type because it simply helps the reader understand the topic more in-depth and provides a strong stance regarding the given subject. It would be reasonable to point out the most notable attributes of this commentary essay and what professors of the Purdue University course require to pass the program.

The list of assignmend handouts by PFW with commentary essay highlighted

The commentary essay’s primary goal is to help the audience understand the topic better. Many subjects may be quite unclear to an ordinary reader—meaning many points can be misunderstood. Students write commentary essays to evaluate various concepts and analyze the subject in a broader scope.

Audience and Genre

The writer’s primary audience should be interested in the issue and have some connections with it. In other words, if you are to discuss innovations in the business sector, your audience may comprise business owners.

A commentary essay speaks for itself. The genre is a commentary—however, an official one.

Language and Style

Almost every paper has to be written according to academic rules, i.e., by following formal language and avoiding slang and personal pronouns. A commentary essay, however, allows you to include the first-person pronoun “I” to present your point of view.

Make your work coherent by providing effective transitions between the essay’s paragraphs and minding the word choice .

Like any academic paper, a commentary essay must contain an introduction with a thesis statement , a body part, and a conclusion. A word count might vary, but it is usually four to six pages long, double-spaced, typed with Times New Roman, with a title page and scholarly sources formatted in APA style.

Note: To learn more about essay format and structure, read our dedicated guide – How to Format an Essay .

Make sure to add one academic article or any other authoritative source per page. If your commentary essay has three pages, you need to find three up-to-date scholarly or any other competent materials. Such shreds of evidence support your arguments and thus make your work more trustworthy.

The following are some brief tips to help you succeed in writing a commentary essay:

Create a strong and clear thesis that will outline your paper’s main points.
Make sure to give your audience food for thought or something that will urge them to act or try making sense of the topic.
Treat the readers as co-thinkers and demonstrate your position with reason, regardless of whether your perspective on the subject and theirs coincide.
Don’t be too objective or neutral but try to show your viewpoint, whatever it is.

Literary Commentary Writing and Analysis

Many students might think that commentary and analysis are two different things. They ask what the difference is since teachers can talk about commentary and analysis and use these terms interchangeably. The truth is, these are basically the same words in the context of essay writing. In simple terms, a commentary requires a person to analyze a certain block of text and explain their understanding to the audience.

As we already know, a commentary essay can be written in various ways. A commentary essay can examine different subjects and areas, which is hard to say about literary analysis. Literary commentary writing focuses on literature and sometimes news. Moreover, it follows the two most used methods: “This shows that” and “LET.”

“This Shows That” Approach

To be brief but precise, this method makes students read between the lines and provide a complete understanding of the given text. However, although this method is relatively simple (but very effective), students tend to make mistakes when using it. Instead of going into the content, they remain about water. As a result, students don’t analyze the chosen section but simply paraphrase it. Let’s take a look at two examples:

A weak approach: In Essay On Criticism by Alexander Pope , the author states that “Those RULES of old discover’d, not devis’d; Are Nature still, but Nature Methodiz’d. Nature, like Liberty, is but restrain’d By the same Laws which first herself ordain’d.” The author says that only Nature sets the rules of our universe and can alter them.

A stronger approach: In Essay On Criticism by Alexander Pope , the author states that “Those RULES of old discover’d, not devis’d; Are Nature still, but Nature Methodiz’d. Nature, like Liberty, is but restrain’d By the same Laws which first herself ordain’d.” This shows that Nature dictates its own rules that no one can alter but her. Moreover, such rules are tightly connected with criticism during Classicism. The author wanted to emphasize that often such criticism was hostile to poetry, which was then called “criticism for the sake of criticism.”

“LET” Approach

This approach stands for “Literary Elements and Techniques,” which helps determine components used within the section and explains how such techniques correlate with the thesis statement. As a matter of fact, these elements are point of view, conflict, plot, character, style, and setting .

Analyzed quote : “It is much easier to make good men wise, than to make bad men good.”

Thesis statement : Henry Fielding used digressions and extensive descriptions to show how a single event can be depicted, extended, and mocked.

Commentary : In this example, the narrator uses digressions to change the topic and provide something completely different, which, however, as the author states, is very important to know beforehand. By men , the author demonstrates the entire humanity and its development, false values, and shallow life. The quote works to show that every piece of text can mock every life aspect, and it wholly relates to the thesis statement.

Note: To learn more about academic analytical writing, check our comprehensive article – How to Write an Analytical Essay .

What Are Commentaries in an Essay?

Commentaries in an essay can be written in different ways. Depending on an essay’s type you have to analyze, you can use several kinds of commentaries to interpret the body paragraphs’ evidence . These comments ultimately allow you to build a full-fledged paper and are essential in most essays.

Each body paragraph in essays usually has a set structure, which looks something like this:

Topic sentence (with your claim or argument)
Supporting evidence, examples, quotes, etc.
Your commentaries analyzing the previous part
Concluding sentence with a transition to the next part

There are five different ways of writing a commentary (analysis) in an essay. Each of them requires thorough analysis to identify which type is the most pertinent to use. Comments can be composed in the form of:

Opinion: When you analyze a piece and provide your take about it.
Interpretation: When you explain a concept that is hard to understand.
Character and Subject’s Feelings: When you depict the person’s emotional state.
Personal Reaction: When you present your personal stance on the topic.
Evaluation: When you evaluate a section and provide your critical judgment.

Now, each type is unique and has to be used within the relevant context. Suffice to say, you can’t use a character’s and subject’s feelings when analyzing statistics or a biology essay. How to identify which type is the most pertinent to the essay? Let’s find out.

Opinion Type

This one simply means to walk through the piece, comprehend it, and give the audience a short thought on the subject. The “what and why” method is the best way to provide sound analysis. Topics may be different, but argumentative essays with pieces of evidence are the prevalent paper type.

An exemplary statement might be: Considering a slow increase in vaccinated people, it will take over 70 years to vaccinate all the globe’s population.

When sticking to the “what and why” method, you want to show what your opinion is and why it is important.

So, the answer might follow this way: The statement demonstrated very slow progress in vaccinating people. If we want to get back to the pre-covid times sooner than 70 years from now, we have to speed up the vaccination process to grant people safety and hope.

Interpretation Type

This type would suit argumentative essays with evidence-based statistics and numbers. Likewise, the “what and why” strategy would be the best for this and succeeding types.

The example of the body paragraph’s main thought can be: Researchers empirically identified that of 100,000 participants, 80,000 started feeling better after strenuous workouts.

Your commentary: The research indicates that the vast majority of participants made use of intense exercises. However beneficial it may be, there are still a substantial number of people who didn’t feel any improvement, and some even started feeling worse.

Character’s or Subject’s Feelings

This type is applicable when providing commentaries on different descriptive or narrative essays.

For instance, the subject matter may well be related to some biographies and reflections, such as Sylvia Evans, observing her poor mental state, had to give up higher education and merge with solitude for the rest of her life.

Then, your commentary can be: Sylvia faces disastrous feelings at a young age, resulting in her university expulsion. Consequently, she has to leave everything and become alone, which can be even more perilous for her and people who share similar feelings.

Personal Reaction

Here, you can touch on topics that can somehow relate to you. Issues you cover might be various and relate to the expository , narrative , or descriptive essays . An excellent example can be the topic of ethnic discrimination.

For instance: People don’t accept individuals of various backgrounds, sticking to the ideas of a polygamous nation and excluding others from their group.

The following may be your response: It is unacceptable to observe such pseudo-notions and see how people from different countries are perceived. Such an attitude spawns hatred, isolation, and even violence from both groups.

Assessment

This type relies on authoritative papers, credible statements, law, and other widely known rules.

For example, Owners whose private property is trespassed can use firearms and fend off the intruders.

Your evaluation can be as follows: Although this might be unnecessary, people are prone to defending their territory in any possible way. In fact, they are protected by the law and constitution that allow them to use firearms to protect their possessions.

Data Commentary

Last but not least, the data commentary. Data commentary analyzes and discusses various data. In many fields, especially in engineering, it is critical to be able to make a point or develop an argument based on data.

The data can be presented as a table, graph, chart, or diagram; it can be your own data (e.g., gathered via a survey) or data from other sources, such as research papers and third-party surveys.

In data commentaries, one of the essential points is showing your position. And one of the main mistakes is to simply describe the data without providing your own point of view or any interpretation. However, here’s where another danger often arises. When drawing a conclusion based on data, make sure that conclusion is well-supported and that your claim is reasonable.

You can regulate the strength of your claim by using different verbs based on the strength of your stance. For example, if your stance is strong, you can say “caused,” indicating that one thing is definitely the reason something else happened. But if you want to make it less asserting, you can word it like “might have contributed to.”

All in all, here are the elements your data commentary can consist of:

Summary : You need to write a study’s synopsis and provide critical pieces of information the reader should know about.
Graph or Chart : To help the reader understand the numbers better and be able to compare them easily, you can include diagrams, charts, or other visual representations of data.
Conclusion : When writing a conclusion, not only do you help the reader remember key points, but you also provide your viewpoint.
Bibliography : You might need to create a reference page listing the sources you used when composing the data commentary.

Data Commentary Example (image)

Here’s an example of a data commentary with a good explanation, transitions, and a strong conclusion.

a data commentary excerpt about online misbehavior

Key Takeaways and Tips

With the abundance of types a commentary essay has, it comes as no surprise that students often get overwhelmed when professors assign them to write this paper. Still, the assignment is manageable, especially if you are aware that a commentary essay can be written in the form of:

Separate essay
Literary analysis
Data commentary
Evidence interpretation

Each of them is unique and has characteristics that students need to be familiar with before writing.

Once you define which type of commentary essay you need, you might find the following tips useful:

Commentary is analysis, but not every analysis is commentary.
Try color-coding when writing an essay to highlight its parts with different colors to see if your paper is balanced and well-structured. Read more about essay elements in our guide on how to write a standard essay .
Always remember that in a commentary, your opinion and interpretation matter the most.
In a literary commentary, avoid using first-person pronouns (I, me, my, we, us, our).
Don’t simply summarize the quote, data, or evidence but draw logical conclusions and present your perspective.

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How to Write a Commentary Essay: Example, Tips, and Techniques for Success

Crafting a compelling commentary essay can seem daunting, but with the right approach, anyone can master it. A commentary essay goes beyond summarizing a text; it delves into analysis, interpretation, and personal insights, making it a powerful tool for expressing nuanced perspectives.

Understanding the structure and purpose of a commentary essay is crucial. It allows writers to effectively convey their thoughts while engaging the reader. This article will explore a prime example of a commentary essay, breaking down its components to illustrate how each part contributes to a cohesive and persuasive argument.

Understanding Commentary Essays

Commentary essays dig deeper than mere summarization. They analyze, interpret, and provide personal insights into a text, elucidating its deeper meaning.

What Is a Commentary Essay?

A commentary essay offers more than a summary; it involves analysis and personal insights. Core aspects include identifying key themes, interpreting underlying meanings, and connecting these insights to broader contexts.

Analytical Depth : Commentary essays analyze texts critically, exploring themes, symbols, and motifs.
Personal Insight : Writers provide individual perspectives, offering unique interpretations and reflections.
Textual Evidence : These essays include quotes and references to bolster arguments.
Clear Structure : Effective commentary essays follow an organized structure, typically an introduction, body, and conclusion.
Purposeful Writing : The goal is to engage readers in a thoughtful discussion about the text.

Crafting a Successful Commentary Essay

A successful commentary essay requires a deep understanding of the text and the ability to provide insightful analysis. It combines critical thinking with a structured approach to present compelling arguments.

Selecting the Right Topic

Choosing the right topic is crucial for a successful commentary essay. Select a text that offers rich material for analysis. Opt for works with complex themes, diverse characters, or intricate plots. Avoid overly simplistic or unclear texts, as they might not provide enough content for insightful commentary. Consider topics that resonate with contemporary issues to enhance relevance and reader engagement.

Structuring Your Essay

A well-structured essay enhances readability and ensures that arguments are cohesive. Follow a clear framework:

Introduction : Introduce the text and its author. Provide a brief overview of the key themes or issues. Present the thesis statement, outlining the main argument or perspective.
Body Paragraphs : Divide the body into multiple paragraphs, each focusing on a specific aspect of the text. Begin with a topic sentence, offer analysis and interpretation, and back up claims with textual evidence. For example, one paragraph might analyze character development, while another could explore thematic elements.
Conclusion : Summarize the main points discussed. Restate the thesis in light of the analysis provided. Offer final insights or reflections on the text’s broader implications.

By selecting an engaging topic and structuring the essay effectively, writers can craft compelling commentary essays that engage and inform readers.

Analyzing Commentary Essay Examples

Examining commentary essay examples can provide critical insights into successful writing techniques. By dissecting examples, one can understand the techniques and styles used, as well as the development of arguments.

Example Analysis: Technique and Style

Technique and style significantly impact the effectiveness of a commentary essay. Authors often use vivid language, varied sentence structures, and precise vocabulary to engage readers. For instance, in a commentary essay analyzing “To Kill a Mockingbird”, the writer might use descriptive language and dynamic sentences to highlight the emotional intensity of key scenes. Additionally, maintaining a formal yet accessible tone ensures clarity and reader engagement. Use of literary devices, such as metaphor and symbolism, often enrich the analysis. These techniques allow authors to deepen their examination of the text’s themes and convey nuanced interpretations.

Example Analysis: Argument Development

Developing coherent arguments is essential in commentary essays. Successful examples often begin with a strong thesis statement that encapsulates the main argument. In analyzing “1984”, an effective commentary essay might center around the thesis that the novel portrays dystopian society’s dehumanizing effects. Subsequent paragraphs should break down this thesis into sub-arguments, each supported by specific evidence from the text. For instance, references to specific passages can illustrate how Orwell’s depiction of surveillance supports the argument. Logical progression and clear connections between points help reinforce the overall argument, making the essay more persuasive and impactful.

By studying these aspects in commentary essay examples, writers can enhance their own analytical skills and improve their essay quality.

Writing Tips for Commentary Essays

Writing a compelling commentary essay involves several key elements. Implementing these strategies ensures a well-structured, insightful piece.

Developing a Strong Thesis

A thesis statement serves as the backbone of a commentary essay. Start with a clear, concise thesis that encapsulates the essay’s main argument. Ensure the thesis addresses the essay prompt directly, offering a unique perspective. For example, in an essay on “To Kill a Mockingbird,” a strong thesis might assert that Harper Lee’s portrayal of social justice remains relevant today. Structure subsequent paragraphs to provide evidence supporting this central claim.

Incorporating Effective Evidence

Support arguments with robust evidence to enhance credibility. Use a mix of direct quotes, paraphrasing, and summarizing to present data clearly. Choose sources like books, academic journals, and reputable websites. For example, citing a passage from “1984” where Orwell describes the oppressive regime strengthens arguments about totalitarianism. Integrate evidence smoothly into paragraphs, ensuring relevance to the thesis. Explicitly explain how each piece of evidence bolsters the main argument for maximum impact.

Mastering the art of writing commentary essays requires dedication to understanding the subject matter and presenting well-structured arguments. By selecting complex themes and maintaining a clear structure, writers can offer richer analysis. Examining examples helps in honing writing techniques and styles. Developing a strong thesis and incorporating credible evidence through quotes and paraphrasing are essential for crafting compelling essays. These strategies ensure a confident and insightful commentary that resonates with readers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a commentary essay.

A commentary essay involves providing personal opinions and insights on a specific topic. It emphasizes deep understanding, analysis, and structured arguments to convey a comprehensive perspective.

How do I choose a topic for a commentary essay?

Select a complex theme that allows for richer analysis. It should be something you are passionate about and can explore in-depth with a unique perspective.

What is the importance of a thesis statement in a commentary essay?

A strong thesis statement is crucial as it directly addresses the essay prompt and guides the essay’s direction. It serves as the foundation for developing coherent arguments.

How should I structure my commentary essay?

A commentary essay should have a clear structure: an introduction with a strong thesis, body paragraphs with supporting evidence, and a conclusion that reinforces your main points.

What techniques can I use to enhance my commentary essay?

Use vivid language, varied sentence structures, and ensure coherent argument development. Incorporating direct quotes, paraphrasing, and summarizing from reputable sources can also strengthen your arguments.

Why is it beneficial to examine commentary essay examples?

Examining commentary essay examples can help you understand different writing techniques, styles, and how to develop arguments effectively. It’s a practical way to learn and improve your writing skills.

How can I incorporate evidence effectively in my essay?

Use a mix of direct quotes, paraphrasing, and summarizing from reputable sources. This mix enhances credibility and supports your arguments more convincingly.

What should I include in the conclusion of my commentary essay?

Your conclusion should reinforce your main points, restate your thesis in light of the evidence presented, and provide a final insight or call to action to leave a lasting impression on the reader.

Commentary Essay: Student Guidelines & Examples

Icon Calendar 7 September 2024
Icon Page 7343 words
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When people need to express their thoughts or ideas about something, they need guidelines on how to write a commentary essay. Basically, this article begins by defining what is a commentary essay, its meaning, and outlining its basic format and structure. Then, some insights students can learn are that introductions should have hooks, background information, and thesis statements. In writing, body paragraphs of this type of essay should have topic sentences; evidence, mainly quotes; comments after the evidence; and transitions. Finally, a conclusion part should restate a central thesis and summarize main ideas. This writing guideline also gives an outline, template, possible topics, and a practical example of a commentary essay. Lastly, a presented article teaches students 10 dos and 10 don’ts as 20 tips for writing a high-standard commentary essay, as well as what to include in such compositions and what to avoid.

General Aspects

Reading is an academic exercise that develops a person’s mental faculties of intellect, memory, reason, intuition, perception, and imagination. In principle, these faculties develop when people utilize what they have acquired through reading to write different types of essays , including reports and research papers. Therefore, reading and writing are related because they both induce intellectual development. As such, this guideline on how to make a correct commentary in an essay teaches students and anyone passionate about writing how to create a good argumentative position that meets quality standards for intellectual discourse and publication. A provided guideline also offers vital insights, including a simple definition of what is a commentary essay, its basic format and structure, different types, possible essay topics, 10 dos and 10 don’ts, 20 tips, what to include and what to avoid for producing a high-standard essay. Therefore, reading this guideline is beneficial to students and others who may, from time to time, write a commentary in an essay to communicate ideas to specific audiences.

What Is a Commentary Essay and Its Purpose

According to its definition, a commentary essay is a form and type of academic writing where an author provides a detailed analysis and interpretation of a particular subject, such as a text, event, or issue. For example, the main purpose of writing a commentary essay is to analyze and critique a subject matter while providing a personal perspective, helping readers to understand deeper meanings or implications (Rogers, 2024). Unlike a summary, which simply recounts information, a commentary essay engages with a specific material, exploring how and why certain aspects are significant. Further on, students may examine different themes, underlying messages, or societal impacts, offering their viewpoints to spark discussion or further thought (Hackett, 2021). In writing, such papers include evidence to support interpretations, such as quotes, data, or real-life examples, ensuring an entire argument is well-grounded. Moreover, through this reflective process, this writing type of composition encourages readers to question, interpret, and explore different perspectives, fostering a more comprehensive engagement with a topic at hand (Lauritzen, 2021). In terms of pages and words, the length of a commentary essay depends on academic levels, assignment requirements, and subjects under analysis, while general writing guidelines are:

High School

Length: 2-4 pages
Word Count: 500- 1,000 words

College (Undergraduate)

Length: 4-6 pages
Word Count: 1,000-1,500 words

University (Advanced Undergraduate)

Length: 6-10 pages
Word Count: 1,500-2,500 words

Master’s

Length: 10-20 pages
Word Count: 2,500-5,000 words
Length: 20-30 pages
Word Count: 5,000 to 7,500+ words

What Is a Commentary in an Essay | Writing Guide & Examples

Section	Content
Title	Develop a concise, descriptive title that reflects a subject or main focus of a commentary essay.
Introduction	Briefly introduce a chosen topic, event, or text being commented on.
	Provide background information or context.
	State a central thesis or main argument for writing your commentary in an essay.
Summary	Write a brief summary of a text, event, or issue if necessary for context.
Analysis	Present your interpretation or analysis of specific elements (themes, arguments, messages, etc.).
	Discuss why these elements are significant and how they contribute to an overall meaning.
	Use evidence, examples, or quotes to support your interpretation.
Personal Reflection	Explain your personal viewpoint and connection to a given subject.
Personal Reflection	Highlight how this subject resonates with you or your perspective on broader societal issues.
Evaluation	Critique some strengths or weaknesses of a subject.
Evaluation	Offer suggestions or insights on how it could be improved or expanded.
Conclusion	Summarize your main points and restate a thesis in an essay.
Conclusion	Emphasize broader implications of your analysis.
List of References	Include a list of sources cited and use a required citation format, such as APA, MLA, Harvard, or Chicago/Turabian.

Note: Some writing sections of a commentary essay can be added, deleted, or combined with each other, depending on academic purposes and instructor’s requirements. For example, a standard commentary essay format involves an introduction that presents a specific topic and thesis, followed by body paragraphs that offer analysis, personal interpretation, and evidence, and concludes with a summary of insights and final thoughts (Rogers, 2024). Basically, commentary writing involves providing an individual’s analysis, interpretation, or personal insight on a specific topic, text, or event, often supported by evidence and critical reflection. Further on, in literature, a commentary is a specific act of providing an explanation, analysis, or personal perspective on a topic, text, or event, often focusing on its deeper meaning, significance, or implications (Lauritzen, 2021). A commentary example might be a person analyzing a specific novel by discussing some themes of identity and self-discovery, explaining how a protagonist’s journey reflects broader societal issues, and using quotes from a text to support various interpretations. Moreover, in an argumentative text, commentary refers to a person’s explanation of how the evidence supports a central claim, providing analysis, interpretation, and insight to strengthen a main idea (Hackett, 2021). In turn, to start a commentary essay, people introduce a unique topic, provide necessary context, and present a clear thesis that outlines their interpretation or argument regarding a specific subject.

Defining Features

From a simple definition, a commentary is a descriptive account of an event, an expression of opinions about a political, economic, social, or cultural issue, or elucidating a point or topic of public interest. From this perspective, a commentary essay is a document that students write to express opinions about an issue or topic through a descriptive expression and explanation of ideas (Hackett, 2021). In writing, a commentary essay differs from other types of texts, including an argumentative, personal narrative, cause and effect, compare and contrast, or problem and solution compositions, as well as a report and a research paper, because it means expressing an individual’s perspective concerning an issue or topic. For example, commentaries are products of a critical analysis of societal problems across political, economic, social, and cultural dimensions (Iskander et al., 2018). When writing a commentary essay, students should analyze and interpret a specific source under discussion, such as a text, film, article, video, advertisement, event, object, subject, book, poem, speech, presentation, literary work, novel, sculpture, or image, among others, using a basic sandwich rule: giving a commentary after each quote or citation.

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Basic Structure

Like other texts, a commentary paper has a basic essay structure that dictates how students should organize their content. For example, this writing structure has 3 components: an introduction, a body, and a conclusion (Rogers, 2024). Firstly, an introduction section is where people introduce their assigned topics using a hook, context, and an argumentative thesis statement. Although this type of essay is not a persuasive paper, an argumentative thesis indicates a person’s perspective on a chosen issue, which can be contentious in the eyes of readers. Then, a body section of a commentary essay is where authors construct a defense of their perspectives through writing body paragraphs; each body paragraph should have a topic sentence that establishes a claim; supporting evidence, like quotes, data, or examples; a commentary that analyzes and explains information cited in an essay; and a concluding sentence with a transition to create a logical connection to a next paragraph (Lauritzen, 2021). Finally, a conclusion section restates a central thesis and makes a final remark of writing. In turn, some examples of sentence starters for beginning a commentary essay are:

In today’s world, a subject of [topic] presents numerous challenges and questions that demand deeper examination, particularly when considering its impact on [societal issue, group, or theme].
An entire work of [author, event, or text] provides a fascinating exploration of [theme or idea], revealing complex layers of meaning that prompt readers to reflect on broader societal, cultural, or personal implications.
At a heart of [related topics], a hot discussion surrounding [subject] becomes more than a surface-level debate, offering valuable and challenging insights into the ways in which [issue] shapes people’s understanding of [related field or societal impact].
In an analysis of [topic or text], it becomes clear that there is a deeper, often overlooked element at play, one that forces people to reconsider their assumptions about [theme, issue, or perspective] and its relevance to contemporary discourse.
A narrative presented in [text or event] brings to light significant themes, such as [name some themes], which not only shape an entire story but also offer commentary on broader implications of [issue or topic] in modern society.
While at first glance, [topic or text] may appear straightforward, a more thorough investigation reveals underlying complexities related to [specific issue], encouraging readers to engage with a material on a more critical level.
By examining intricate details of [topic], this essay will analyze different arguments and themes that contribute to a deeper understanding of [related field or idea], ultimately highlighting its relevance in today’s world.
A controversial discussion surrounding [text or issue] often centers on [popular interpretation], yet a closer look reveals subtleties that challenge this conventional view, offering a more nuanced perspective on [key theme or argument].
Through a careful analysis of [event, text, or subject], one can observe how [specific aspect] acts as a microcosm for larger societal or cultural dynamics, providing deeper insight into [related theme or issue].
An exploration of [subject] in this essay seeks to explain a significant impact it has on [broader topic or field], not only offering critical insights but also questioning prevailing narratives that dominate discussions on [related issue].

5 Main Types

Because a commentary in an essay expresses a person’s perspective about an issue, idea, or topic, it is evident in a body section of such a paper, where people describe their perspectives every time they provide evidence. For example, there are different writing types of commentary people may use for organizing their papers (Rogers, 2024). A first type is an opinion essay where authors analyze evidence, such as a quote, text, or image, and state their stands with their critics. A second type of commentary essay is an interpretation, where students explain a complex concept to enhance a reader’s understanding. A third type is character or subject’s feelings, where learners depict an emotional state of a person they have described in a commentary sentence. A fourth type of commentary essay is a personal reaction, where people communicate their stances on an issue, while A fifth type is an evaluation, where students evaluate a section and give a critical judgment.

Alternative Forms and Examples

Besides the common types presented above, students may write alternative commentaries when their essay is part of a bigger writing project, such as a systematic exposition of an idea, theme, or topic. For example, students must know unique features of each type, including when to use it, what to focus on, and how to organize a commentary essay’s content in writing (Hackett, 2021). As such, alternative forms and examples are:

1️⃣ Close, Direct Analysis of Passages

An example of an alternative commentary in an essay is a close, direct analysis of robust passages from a specific source, such as an article, film, poem, literary work, book, or novel. Basically, they are standard in bigger writing projects, like expositions or being part of a critic’s work (Rogers, 2024). In principle, students adopt this type of commentary when they have to read a passage in a text or pick a speech in a movie and write a film analysis essay that expresses a person’s perspective on central issues, ideas, or concepts. As a result, a following writing example of a commentary essay demonstrates a close, direct examination of a first stanza of a famous poem “Night Wind” by Christopher Dewdney:

Tonight the wind blows through all the worlds I have known and through all the lives I have led. The wind blows in the trees, deeper into each. The wind blows forever, strains like something endlessly departing. Restless, impatient, it races without burden.

Example of a Commentary on Celebration of Nature in the First Stanza of Christopher Dewdney’s Poem “Night Wind”

Christopher Dewdney’s 1984 poem “Night Wind” celebrates nature by depicting the night wind as a permanent, free expression of nature. The poet describes the wind on a particular night in the first stanza. By using a first-person perspective in the first three lines, Dewdney depicts himself as an observer. This writing style expresses a personal dialogue in which the poet directly relates his senses, experiences, and impressions. Dewdney opens the poem with the words: “Tonight the wind blows through / all the worlds I have known and / through all the lives I have led.” In this passage, the author expresses to the reader how the unity of the wind in whatever time or place leaves a lasting impression on him. Ideally, he views the wind as an omnipresent force but also regards it as very transient and fleeting. The words “endlessly departing” indicate to the reader the sense that the wind encompasses the entire continuum of the poet’s existence. Nonetheless, it is always in a rush to be at another location. The reader gets the impression that wind is a celebration of nature when Dewdney mentions its interactions with nature: “The wind blows in the trees, deeper into each.” This statement induces an imagination of trees fighting against a pervasive wind. The poet ends the stanza by personifying the wind, and he assigns it human qualities of restlessness, impatience, and playfulness. In this respect, the first stanza uses the wind as a reason to celebrate nature.

2️⃣ Commentary Annotations

Annotations are another writing type of alternative commentary in an essay where students use a short claim on a source, like a text, film, or image. For example, this kind of commentary essay also looks like an annotated bibliography (Hackett, 2021). Typically, people adopt annotations when they need to explain complex words, phrases, or concepts to readers; give a historical or cultural context of a topic; support or challenge author’s arguments in an essay; expose literary devices, like contrast, irony, or sarcasm, or rhetorical devices, like ethos, pathos, and logos; provide a personal interpretation of a text under analysis. Therefore, annotations aim to enhance a reader’s understanding of a short passage from a source (Berterö, 2016). Below are three writing examples of annotations of complex content in writing a commentary essay for Christopher Dewdney’s Poem “Night Wind.”

3 Examples of a Commentary With Annotations

➖ “The night wind is an empire / in exodus, a deliverance / beside the dark shape of trees.”

This statement is in lines 13-15 of Dewdney’s poem, where the poet alludes to a biblical concept, exodus, to express the wind’s freedom. By stating that the wind is “… in exodus, a deliverance…,” Dewdney makes the reader compare the wind to the incident in the book of Exodus in the Bible where Moses leads the children of Israel, God’s chosen people, to Canaan, the promised land, after freeing a life of bondage in Egypt. In this respect, lines 13-15 confirm that the wind is free and expresses nature’s freedom.

➖ “The wind takes / me in its giddy rush and / gathers me into a storm of longing, / rising on wings of darkness.”

In this statement in lines 18-21, the phrase “wings of darkness” emphasizes the wind’s freedom and mystery. The poet contextualizes the wind as an unpredictable force that can take a person anywhere .

➖ “Along oceans and rivers, / the gale’s mysterious, unspoken imperative / is a joyous delirium with / nothing at its end.”

This passage in lines 36-39 expresses Dewdney’s excitement in not knowing where the wind may take him. It suggests that it does not matter where the wind takes him because he is truly free. In essence, the statement makes the reader imagine the wind as a mystery because it can take one anywhere, emphasizing the theme of freedom.

3️⃣ Data Commentary

Data commentary is another writing type of alternative commentary in an essay where students summarize a study by analyzing critical information that helps readers to have a sneak peek of a project. Basically, main features students should incorporate in a commentary essay include visual illustrations, like charts, diagrams, graphs, and tables, to capture statistical data, allowing readers to compare them easily (Lewis et al., 2021). In writing, data commentary reflects the results section of a research paper because that is where scholars use visual illustrations to report statistical data. For example, to write a commentary in a synthesis essay, people explain how the evidence from different academic sources supports their thesis, analyze some connections between these articles, and provide their interpretation or insights on their combined significance (Lauritzen, 2021). Further on, another feature is a conclusion summarizing a commentary essay by reiterating key points and expressing a person’s final remark, meaning a main perspective on a given topic. Lastly, people must provide a reference page listing credible sources they consulted to write data commentaries, such as reports and research articles. Below is a writing example of data commentary.

Example of Data Commentary

Table 3 shows respondents’ responses to statements about the barriers to exercise prescription for people with mental illness. Those who agreed that patients’ mental health denies them the opportunity to exercise was 58%, while those who agreed that obtaining an injury during exercise is a concern was 45%. There was an overwhelming response by 87% of the respondents who agreed that exercise is beneficial and were interested in prescribing it for patients with mental health problems. However, only 13% agreed that prescribing exercise falls outside their job description. Nonetheless, 16% stated that they did not know how to prescribe exercise for the population. Overall, 71% approved that exercise professionals are best suited to prescribe exercise for people in the population.

Possible Uses of Block Quotations

When writing a commentary essay, students can use block quotations to organize comments. However, this feature is suitable mainly for extensive passages. For example, in a simple definition, a block quote is a text that captures direct quotations longer than 40 words, which a person offsets from a main text and does not include quotation marks (Pears & Shields, 2022). In writing, such a text appears on a new line with a 0.5 inches indentation or 5 to 7 spaces. Moreover, using single space for a block quote is standard, even in an essay requiring double spacing. Hence, students must know how to format block quotes in APA, MLA, Harvard, and Chicago/Turabian referencing styles when writing a commentary essay.

📕 APA Format

There are two ways in which students can use block quotes in APA style when writing their commentary essays.

I. A first block captures an author’s name before a quote:

In their tabulation of results, Vancampfort et al. (2019) showed:

Almost 75% of the respondents indicated that they would “definitely” attend further training for exercise prescriptions for people with mental illness, in particular, related to how to assess patients and how to motivate them towards an active lifestyle. More than seventy percent of the participants also reported that exercise to people with mental illness is actually best delivered by an exercise professional, although only one respondent referred patients to such an exercise professional (p. 2178).

“[Your comments on a block quote starts here]”

II. Alternatively, a block quote can have an author’s surname at the end:

According to the findings:

📕 MLA Format

Similarly, MLA style has two ways of formatting a block quote when writing commentary essays.

I. Having a surname of an author preceding a block quote in an essay:

The results by Vancampfort et al. indicate:

II. Having an author’s surname at the end of a quote:

📕 Harvard Format

Harvard style also has two ways of formatting a block quote when writing commentary essays.

I. Indicating an author’s surname before a block quote in an essay:

In their findings, Vancampfort et al. (2019) established that:

II. Citing an author’s surname at the end of a block quote:

📕 Chicago/Turabian Format

Chicago/Turabian style also has two ways of formatting a block quote when writing commentary essays.

I. Mentioning an author’s surname before a block quote in an essay:

According to Vancampfort et al.:

II. Showing an author’s surname in a footnote:

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Key Features of Formatting Block Quotes

Looking at the examples of writing a commentary in an essay above, there are some similarities and differences in formatting block quotes. APA and Harvard are similar because they show a research article’s publication year and a page number of the information people cite in their commentary essays (Pears & Shields, 2022). Basically, the main difference is a specific arrangement of these details, including a place for putting comas. On the other hand, MLA and Chicago/Turabian styles are similar in that they do not show a research article’s publication year (Pears & Shields, 2022). In writing, the main difference is that the Chicago/Turabian style uses footnotes to show the author(s) and all the bibliography details at a commentary essay’s end. Moroever, MLA style shows only an author’s surname and a page number in a text. In turn, people begin writing their commentaries in the following line after a block quote as a standard paragraph in all the formats.

Examples of Commentary Essay Topics

Students should choose easy essay topics when writing a commentary essay to avoid complicating their tasks. For example, a specific topic should indicate a particular source document one is commenting on, such as a text, film, or image (Rogers, 2024). Basically, a standard practice is that instructors define commentary essay topics students should write about. However, people can choose other themes they are comfortable with if such instructions do not exist for writing a commentary essay. In writing, the best approach to choosing an easy topic is to engage with course content and read widely to generate and incubate ideas (Lauritzen, 2021). When the time comes to write an entire essay, one finds it easy to construct arguments that fit an entire task. As such, the following are possible commentary essay topics because they suggest analyzing and examining a source from a person’s perspective.

In Memory of Amelia Earhart: Sky’s Fearless Lady
Digital Privacy: A Fundamental Right or a Trade-Off for Security
Analyzing Bias in Mainstream News Media
Cultural Factors Influencing Eating Disorders
Central Themes in Harper Lee’s Novel “To Kill a Mockingbird”
“The Great Gatsby” Through Contemporary Lens
A Rhetorical Stance in Jessica Grose’s “Cleaning: The Final Feminist Frontier”
A Key Message in Robert Frost’s Poem “The Road Not Taken”
Maya Angelou’s Magic in “And Still I Rise”
Demystifying Mental Disorders Through the Film “Black Swan (2010)”
An Actual Essence of Margaret Atwood’s “Negotiating With the Dead: A Writer on Writing”

Outline and Template

Title : Unique Topic

Title of a commentary essay must be precise to an assigned topic.
Title must be short, clear, and easily understandable.
Title must be interesting, catchy, and with relevant keywords.

I. Introduction

Essay introduction must have a hook that interests readers enough to grab their attention and stir a curiosity to continue reading.
Introduction must refer to a specific source (text, film, or image) and its author(s).
Introduction must summarize an assigned source that includes the main characters (if any), themes, or concepts.
Introduction must have a clear thesis statement that states a person’s claim.

Body paragraphs (at least three):

Each body paragraph of a commentary essay must have a topic sentence that emphasizes a single idea central to a main claim in a thesis statement that a person will defend in a paragraph.
Each body paragraph must include evidence from a source under analysis, such as a quote, indicating a character responsible and a context.
Each body paragraph must give a commentary about the evidence through relevant analysis, linking the information to a single idea at the beginning of a paragraph and a central claim in a thesis.
Each body paragraph must end with a closing statement and a bridge sentence to facilitate a logical flow to a next paragraph or section of an essay.

III. Conclusion

Sum up a commentary essay by:

Restating a thesis.
Emphasizing main ideas of a commentary essay.
Giving a final remark that confirms an actual importance of a discussed topic.

List of References

Cite a central source under analysis in an essay, including other academic articles, credible websites, or books, and follow specific citation rules, such as APA, MLA, Harvard, or Chicago/Turabian referencing formats.

Commentary Essay Example

Title: A Rhetorical Stance in Jessica Grose’s “Cleaning: The Final Feminist Frontier”

Introduction

A woman never rests, not with society constantly demanding her value at every turn. This idea is a central message in Jessica Grose’s famous article, “Cleaning: The Final Feminist Frontier.” The author argues that cleaning remains a feature of women’s value in society, despite men’s growing involvement in childcare and cooking. The article also opens with personal accounts and convincing facts, suggesting its credibility as a source of information about the dynamics confronting American women. In her article, Grose communicates her message effectively by adopting a rhetorical stance characterized by emotional appeals.

Body Paragraphs

A. Commentary on a Main Idea of an Article

Grose opens the article with a personal story of her and her husband cleaning their house after Hurricane Sandy forced them indoors. For example, Grose (2013) uses an uneven distribution of a cleaning task in her marriage to point out a larger feminist issue of who between a husband and wife should do a job. The article gives three reasons why men shy away from the cleaning task, including the fact that it is women who receive praise for a clean house, the media focuses on men’s growing involvement in childcare and cooking, and it is not fun. Even the distribution of a cleaning task can happen by creating a task chart that shows who does what on a basis of skill and ability and adopting cleaning gadgets to make cleaning more fun.

Throughout the article, Grose uses sources to appeal to a reader’s ethos and build her argument. For example, Grose (2013) uses some of the sources to achieve these goals, and they include a study by sociologists Judith Treas and Tsui-o Tai and an article by Matthew Krehbiel, North America Fabric Care Brand Manager for P&G. Citing these sources helps the author to build her credibility in the eyes of readers.

Regarding appeals to logos, Grose mentions statistics and interesting facts that help to enhance the logical progression of ideas central to her argument. For example, temphasize the uneven distribution of the cleaning task, Grose (2013) says, “My husband and I both work…I do the dishes nine times out of ten, and he barely knows how the washer and dryer work.” Such facts confirm and support the idea that women do more household chores than men. Grose (2013) also cites statistics, showing “55 percent of mothers working full-time in America do some housework daily compared to 18 percent of fathers.” In this respect, the article is factual about an uneven distribution of household chores that disadvantages women. As a result, personal details and statistics from credible sources help the author to impress upon a reader how society uses a modern domestic environment to subjugate women.

The article appeals to a reader’s pathos in the beginning and middle sections, where Grose uses emotionally charged words and phrases to induce the audience’s sympathy. For example, Grose (2013) laments that, while she “was eight months pregnant,” her husband experienced the complexity of fighting “a massively pregnant person.” These words evoke an image in a reader’s mind that portrays women as vulnerable in a current domestic space because of natural factors, like high emotions and pregnancy. Indeed, readers may feel sympathetic to Grose and the women who generally live in this social context. Moreover, using words and phrases, like ‘argued,’ ‘sucks,’ ‘be shunned,’ ‘be judged,’ and ‘headachey,’ evokes readers’ negative feelings about cleaning. As such, they are more drawn to sympathize with men and view men as selfish.

Grose takes a rhetorical stand throughout the article to persuade her audience of an unfair distribution of cleaning labor in a modern domestic space. By referencing credible sources, citing statistics and interesting facts, and portraying women as adversely disadvantaged, Grose effectively appeals to a reader’s ethos, logos, and pathos. This rhetorical stand is critical in communicating how society remains unfair to women in ta current domestic space despite men’s growing involvement in some household chores, like childcare and cooking.

Grose, J. (2013, March 19). Cleaning: The final feminist frontier . The New Republic. https://newrepublic.com/article/112693/112693

How to Write a Commentary Essay

Writing a commentary essay is a technical process that requires students to grasp essential details. For example, to write a commentary essay, people analyze a subject matter critically, present their interpretation or argument, support a main claim with evidence, and connect their insights to broader themes or implications while maintaining a clear structure and focus throughout (Rogers, 2024). In principle, these details reflect 4 writing steps: preparation, stage setup, writing a first draft, and wrap-up. Typically, each step’s details of writing a commentary essay reflect a unqiue wisdom students should exhibit when creating any scholarly text.

Step 1: Preparation

Preparation is a first step in writing a commentary essay. For example, it is when students take time to create a favorable environment to write their papers (Lauritzen, 2021). In principle, a first task is identifying a single subject, where people should select good sources they can analyze easily, including poems, novels, or films. Moreover, a second task is to create a topic, where students must write short topics that communicate a precise message of a commentary essay.

Step 2: Stage Setup

Setting a stage is a second step of writing a commentary essay. For example, a first task is to read, watch, or examine an assigned source to identify key themes and ideas (Hackett, 2021). Then, a second activity is to research reliable sources that help to generate ideas that align with these themes and concepts to write about. Further on, a next task is to create a clear essay outline emphasizing an introduction, body, and conclusion with all the essential writing details (Lauritzen, 2021). As a result, to start a commentary in an essay, people introduce a subject or text, provide a relevant context, and present a clear thesis or central argument to guide their analysis.

Step 3: Writing a First Draft of a Commentary Essay

Writing a first draft is a third step in creating a commentary essay, and a central focus is generating a paper that can be used for further editing and improvement. For example, a standard format of writing a commentary involves presenting a clear thesis, supporting analysis with evidence, providing interpretation or personal insights, and concluding with a summary of an argument or reflection on its broader significance (Rogers, 2024). As such, students should organize their ideas into text, emphasizing a central claim in a thesis statement, ideas in topic sentences, evidence (quotes), and transitions in body paragraphs. In writing, they should also ensure their conclusions restate a thesis, summarize main ideas of a commentary essay, and give a final remark about their commentaries, focusing on an assigned source and topic.

Step 4: Wrap-Up

A final wrap-up is a last step in writing a commentary essay. For example, a main focus is transforming a first draft into a final text by eliminating all mistakes and flaws (Lauritzen, 2021). Typically, students should revise all sections that do not make sense to a central claim or those that affect a paper’s logical progression and its writing. Moreover, they should edit a commentary essay by adding or deleting words and phrases and eliminating grammatical mistakes, missing punctuation, formatting or writing errors, and incorrect citations.

Looking at the information in the preceding sections, writing a great commentary essay is a complex task that requires students to demonstrate knowledge of what it takes to create a quality paper. Some of the tips for writing a commentary essay include identifying a single source, which can be a text, film, or image; noting a source’s basic information, like an author, title, and publication date; identifying central themes in a given subject; writing an introduction that emphasizes a source’s basic information; creating a thesis that communicates a claim about an assigned source; adopting a unique structure as above; beginning paragraphs with a topic sentence; incorporating quotes from a source into body paragraphs; commenting on some quotes and their significance; and concluding a commentary essay with a summary that makes a final remark about a single source and topic.

10 things to do include:

identifying a source for writing a commentary essay;
reading, watching, or analyzing an assigned source carefully and closely;
outlining critical details, like themes, ideas, and literary devices;
writing an introduction with a hook and an argumentative thesis statement;
providing body paragraphs with topic sentences, concluding sentences, quotes, commentary, and transitions;
maintaining a formal tone in a commentary essay;
using the applicable format (APA, MLA, Harvard, or Chicago/Turabian) correctly;
presenting an introduction that summarizes a commentary essay;
avoiding grammatical and writing mistakes;
proofreading a final version of a commentary essay.

10 things not to do include:

failing to document source’s essential details, like an author’s name and surname;
concentrating on an introduction more than a body;
not incorporating quotes in body paragraphs;
focusing on too many ideas in writing a commentary essay;
not defending a central claim in a thesis;
ignoring a unique outline of a commentary essay;
writing with too many grammatical mistakes;
using different formatting styles (APA, MLA, Harvard, and Chicago/Turabian);
not implementing transitions in body paragraphs;
creating a commentary essay without a logical flow of ideas and thoughts in writing.

What to Include

Element	Description
Subject Matter	A main topic or text that is being commented on, which could be a book, article, film, poem, event, issue, etc.
Main Argument	A central viewpoint or thesis regarding a subject being analyzed.
Key Themes	Major ideas or topics within a chosen subject that are important for understanding its meaning or impact.
Evidence	Supportive data, examples, or quotes from credible sources to back up an entire analysis and claim.
Interpretation	A person’s explanation of a deeper meaning or implications of a presented subject.
Critical Analysis	A detailed examination of specific aspects to evaluate their significance or relevance.
Personal Insight	An author’s individual perspective and reflection on a given subject.
Comparative Analysis	Comparing a subject with other works, issues, or perspectives to enhance understanding.
Broader Impact	Exploration of how a discussed subject relates to wider societal, cultural, or historical contexts.
Final Insights	Final thoughts on some implications or importance of an analysis conducted.

Common Mistakes

Summarizing Instead of Analyzing: Providing a mere summary of a text, event, or issue without offering personal interpretation or critical insight.
Lack of a Clear Thesis: Failing to present a focused thesis that guides a commentary essay’s purpose and main argument.
Not Supporting Claims With Evidence: Making assertions without backing them up with quotes, examples, or data, weakening an overall analysis.
Overloading With a Personal Opinion: Giving too much subjective opinion without balancing writing with analysis and evidence from a source material.
Ignoring Opposing Viewpoints: Neglecting to consider alternative interpretations or counterarguments, making a whole analysis one-dimensional.
Focusing on Irrelevant Details: Including unnecessary information that does not contribute to a main argument or writing.
Poor Organization: Failing to structure a commentary essay logically, leading to a confusing or disjointed flow of ideas and writing.
Overuse of Quotes: Relying too heavily on direct quotations instead of interpreting and explaining their significance in an entire analysis.
Weak Conclusion: Ending a commentary essay abruptly without effectively summarizing main points or reinforcing a thesis in writing.
Inconsistent Tone or Style: Switching between formal and informal language or inconsistent use of academic tone throughout a paper.

A commentary essay is a piece of writing where an author analyzes and interprets a specific topic, often a text or event, providing personal insights. Basically, such a paper follows a structured writing format, typically with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. An example of commentary is a written analysis of a novel where a person discusses key themes, an author’s intent, and how an entire story relates to current societal issues, providing personal insight and interpretation. Further on, the main parts of a commentary essay include an introduction with a thesis, body paragraphs that analyze a specific subject with evidence and personal insights, and a conclusion that summarizes key points and restates an actual significance of an entire analysis. In writing, an introduction presents a specific topic and thesis, while a body explores key themes with evidence. Finally, a conclusion restates a main argument. Moreover, different types of commentary essays include opinion, interpretation, and evaluation. As a result, people should balance personal viewpoints with evidence to engage critically with a chosen subject. In turn, key takeaways to remember are:

Choose a single source that is simple to analyze.
Create a clear thesis that emphasizes a central focus of a commentary essay, such as a claim.
Identify passages or themes in an assigned source that help to build an argumentative claim.
Use an introduction paragraph for its purpose: to introduce a specific topic. As such, writing should be short and precise.
Use a body section for its purpose: to analyze a particular source and defend a central claim comprehensively. Therefore, it should be long and have quotes as evidence.
Use a conclusion part to summarize a commentary essay, and writing should be concise. More importantly, a final sentence should leave readers with a lasting impression of a defined source and topic.

Berterö, C. (2016). Guidelines for writing a commentary. International Journal of Qualitative Studies on Health and Well-Being , 11 (1), 1–2. https://doi.org/10.3402/qhw.v11.31390

Hackett, U. (2021). Brilliant essays . Red Globe Press.

Iskander, J. K., Wolicki, S. B., Leeb, R. T., & Siegel, P. Z. (2018). Successful scientific writing and publishing: A step-by-step approach. Preventing Chronic Disease , 15 , 1–6. https://doi.org/10.5888/pcd15.180085

Lauritzen, J. (2021). Read, write, and cite . Kendall Hunt Publishing Company.

Lewis, K. B., Graham, I. D., Boland, L., & Stacey, D. (2021). Writing a compelling integrated discussion: A guide for integrated discussions in article-based theses and dissertations. International Journal of Nursing Education Scholarship , 18 (1), 1–9. https://doi.org/10.1515/ijnes-2020-0057

Pears, R., & Shields, G. J. (2022). Cite them right: The essential referencing guide (12th ed.). A&C Black.

Rogers, D. (2024). Writing better essays: A rhetorical guide to writing and revision . Equinox Publishing Ltd.

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Learning Materials

How to write a commentary essay: tips and examples.

Updated: May 3, 2024

Ever felt overwhelmed by the thought of writing a commentary essay? It can be daunting to express your thoughts coherently and engage your readers effectively. A commentary essay requires you to analyze a text critically, offering your perspective in a structured and detailed manner. This blog will guide you through understanding what a commentary essay is, exploring its types, and providing steps and tips to write one effectively, including examples and essential do's and don'ts.

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Understanding what a commentary essay is.

A commentary essay is a type of writing where you, the author, provide your personal interpretation and analytical comments on a given text. This could be a book, an article, a film, or any other form of media. The purpose of this essay is not just to summarize the content but to dive deep into its elements and offer insights based on your understanding. This kind of essay helps in sharpening critical thinking skills and allows you to convey your perspectives in a structured manner.

In academic and professional settings, the importance of a commentary essay lies in its ability to demonstrate your ability to critically engage with texts and articulate your thoughts clearly. Here are some key aspects that highlight its significance:

Enhances analytical skills : By analyzing different layers of the text.
Improves writing skills : As it requires clear and coherent expression of your thoughts.
Encourages independent thinking : You interpret the text in your unique way without relying solely on external commentaries.

Exploring Types of Commentary Essays

Commentary essays come in various forms, each serving a unique purpose and audience. One popular type is the literary commentary , which focuses on analyzing a specific passage from a literary work. This type of commentary delves into the text's themes, stylistic choices, and overall significance within the larger context of the work. It's not about summarizing but rather interpreting and offering new insights about the text. Literary commentaries are particularly useful in academic settings where deep textual analysis is required to understand the nuances of literature.

Another distinct type is data commentary . Unlike its literary counterpart, data commentary does not deal with traditional texts. Instead, it focuses on interpreting and discussing data, often presented in formats such as graphs, tables, or charts. The key points of a data commentary might include the data's reliability, trends, and what these imply about the broader research context. This type is commonly found in scientific or technical fields, where understanding data is crucial for advancing knowledge and making informed decisions.

Steps to Writing a Commentary Essay

Writing a commentary essay involves a systematic approach that starts with thorough planning. Initially, you must carefully read and analyze the text to fully grasp its content and subtleties. This critical first step sets the foundation for your commentary, as it allows you to form a clear understanding of the text's main points and underlying messages. It's not just about understanding what the text says, but also about interpreting and evaluating its deeper meanings and implications.

After your initial analysis, the next step is to outline your essay. This outline should include an introduction that sets up your thesis statement, a body where you will expand on your main points with detailed commentary, and a conclusion that ties all your insights together and reinforces your thesis. The key to a successful commentary essay is linking your observations back to your main thesis , ensuring that each section of your essay contributes to a cohesive and persuasive argument.

Specific Methods for Crafting Commentary

One effective method for crafting insightful commentary in your essay is the "This Shows That" method . This technique involves starting your analysis sentences with the phrase "this shows that," which prompts you to explain the significance of a quotation or a detail from the text. This method helps in steering clear of mere plot summary by encouraging a deeper analysis of how specific elements of the text contribute to its overall meaning or theme.

Another powerful strategy is the "LET" method , which stands for Literary Elements and Techniques. This approach guides you to focus on the literary devices used in the text and discuss how they enhance the narrative or argument. For instance, you might analyze the use of metaphor, symbolism, or irony, and explain how these elements support the text's themes. By using the LET method, you can provide a more nuanced interpretation that highlights your ability to engage critically with literary texts.

Example of a Well-Written Commentary Essay

Let's consider an example of a well-written commentary essay on the poem "The Road Not Taken" by Robert Frost. The essay begins with an introduction that contextualizes the poem and presents the thesis: Frost uses the road as a metaphor for life's choices. The body paragraphs delve into detailed analysis:

Exploring the metaphor : The essay discusses how the "two roads diverged" symbolizes life decisions.
Imagery and tone : The commentary highlights how Frost's use of serene and contemplative imagery enhances the theme of choice.
Reader’s personal reflection : The essay includes the author’s personal interpretation, suggesting that the poem resonates with readers who face significant life choices.

In the conclusion, the essay synthesizes the analysis by reaffirming how Frost’s use of literary techniques, such as metaphor and imagery, effectively underscores the poem's deeper meaning about choices and consequences. This example demonstrates the key elements of a commentary essay:

Thesis-driven : It is centered around a clear, arguable thesis.
Textual evidence : It uses specific examples from the poem to support claims.
Personal interpretation : It reflects the writer’s unique perspective on the text.

Tips for Writing an Effective Commentary Essay

a person writing in a notebook with a pen

When embarking on writing a commentary essay, it's crucial to focus on structure, style, and content . Begin with a clear and concise thesis statement that will guide the flow of your essay. This statement should not only state your main point but also set the tone for the arguments you will present. Here are some style tips to consider:

Use a formal yet engaging tone to connect with your reader.
Vary your sentence structures to keep the essay dynamic and interesting.
Employ rhetorical questions sparingly to provoke thought without overusing them.

Structurally, your essay should have a logical flow that makes it easy for readers to follow your analysis. Start with an introduction that hooks the reader and provides a roadmap of your commentary. The body of your essay should then elaborate on your thesis statement, with each paragraph focusing on a single idea supported by evidence from the text. Finally, ensure your conclusion ties all your points together and reinforces your thesis, leaving the reader with a strong impression of your analytical skills. Remember, the key to an effective commentary is not just in what you say, but in how you say it.

Concluding Your Commentary Essay Properly

Concluding your commentary essay is crucial as it's your final opportunity to make an impact on the reader. A strong conclusion will not only summarize the main points but also reinforce your thesis statement and show how your analysis adds to the understanding of the text. Consider linking back to your introduction or using a quotation that emphasizes your main point. This creates a sense of completeness and leaves the reader with a lasting impression of your insights.

To ensure your conclusion is effective, try these strategies:

Synthesize, don't just summarize : Briefly reiterate your main points to show how they interconnect and support your thesis.
Include a provocative insight or quotation : This can give your conclusion depth and resonance.
Propose questions or suggest further areas of study : This encourages the reader to think beyond the essay and apply your analysis in broader contexts. By implementing these methods, your conclusion will serve as a powerful capstone to your commentary essay.

Key Terminology in Commentary Writing

Understanding the key terminology in commentary writing is crucial for anyone looking to master this style of essay. Terms like "thesis statement" refer to the main idea or argument that your essay proposes and defends throughout the text. Another important term is "textual evidence," which includes quotations, summaries, or paraphrases from the text to support your thesis. These elements are vital as they provide the foundation and support for your commentary, ensuring that your analysis is grounded in the text itself.

Additionally, the term "analysis" in commentary writing involves breaking down the text into its components to understand its meanings, themes, and implications more deeply. This process is often supported by identifying and discussing various literary devices such as metaphor, symbolism, or irony used by the author. Recognizing these devices helps to enrich your interpretation, offering a more nuanced view of the text. Personal interpretation , another key term, refers to your unique perspective and insights on the text, which adds originality and depth to your essay.

Do's and Don'ts in Commentary Essay Writing

When writing a commentary essay, it's crucial to adhere to specific best practices while avoiding common pitfalls. Do ensure you always cite your sources to back up your analysis and provide credibility to your essay. Do include a clear and concise title that reflects your thesis and the essence of the commentary. It's also important to thoroughly understand and present the original content you are discussing, including details about the author and publication.

On the flip side, there are several things you should avoid to maintain the quality of your commentary essay. Don't merely summarize the entire content; instead, focus on analyzing and interpreting the text. Avoid including irrelevant citations just to fill space—every source should add value to your argument. Lastly, don't overlook the importance of proofreading ; always review your work to correct any grammatical or structural errors, ensuring your final piece is polished and professional.

Enhance Your Commentary Essay with Samwell.ai

Samwell.ai significantly simplifies the process of writing commentary essays by providing AI-powered writing assistance. This tool is designed to help you craft well-researched, insightful essays that adhere to academic integrity. With features like advanced plagiarism checks and access to authentic sources , Samwell.ai ensures that your essay is not only original but also rich in content and analysis. This is crucial in commentary essays where depth and originality are key.

Using Samwell.ai, students and professionals can focus more on developing their analytical skills without the stress of extensive research and citation management. Here’s how you can benefit:

Ease of use : The interface is user-friendly, making essay writing more accessible.
Time-saving features : Quick access to data and citations speeds up the writing process.
Enhanced learning : Provides multimedia integrations for a comprehensive understanding of topics. To experience these benefits firsthand, visit Samwell.ai and start enhancing your essays today.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you start a commentary in an essay.

Starting a commentary essay effectively involves setting up a clear and engaging introduction. Begin with a hook to capture the reader's interest, followed by background information on the text you will be analyzing. Then, introduce your thesis statement, which will guide the flow of your essay and state your main point. This structure not only prepares the reader for what is to come but also sets the tone for a coherent and persuasive argument.

What is an example for commentary?

An example of a commentary essay is analyzing the poem "The Road Not Taken" by Robert Frost. The essay could start with an introduction that contextualizes the poem and presents the thesis that Frost uses the road as a metaphor for life's choices. The body paragraphs would delve into detailed analysis, discussing the metaphor of the roads diverging, the use of serene and contemplative imagery, and the personal reflection of the reader. The conclusion would then synthesize this analysis, reaffirming how Frost’s literary techniques effectively underscore the poem's themes about choices and consequences.

What is the format of writing commentary?

The format of writing a commentary essay includes an introduction, body, and conclusion. Begin with an introduction that includes a hook, background information, and a thesis statement. The body should consist of several paragraphs, each focusing on a specific part of the analysis linked back to the thesis. Each paragraph should contain textual evidence and detailed commentary. Conclude the essay by synthesizing the main points, reinforcing the thesis, and suggesting further implications or questions for the reader to consider. This structured approach helps maintain a clear and logical flow, making your analysis easy to follow.

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School of Modern Languages and Cultures

Writing a literary commentary: guidelines, what is a commentary.

First and foremost, a literary commentary is NOT an essay. The passage in front of you is not, therefore, an invitation to write a general essay about the work from which it has been taken.
A commentary is an analysis of the given passage, its function and its characteristics. It should examine the key themes and stylistic devices of the passage, showing how the language works to convey (or at times undermine) its content.
A commentary should relate the passage to the rest of the work (novel, collection of poems, etc.), but remain focused in the main on the details of the passage itself.
Make sure that your commentary covers the whole passage. For instance, if you are given a poem with five stanzas, you should try to say something about each stanza.
Use line numbers (in both poetry and prose) in your commentary, rather than wasting time by quoting at length.
When you do quote, make sure that your comments don't simply repeat what the quotation already says: 'In the line "Il pleut dehors", the poet tells us that it is raining outside ...'
Avoid verbosity or inaccurate terminology. Clarity and precision are top priorities, and polysyllabic words do not improve a commentary.
Don't use words like 'effective', 'atmospheric', or 'beautiful' unless you are also explaining what the effect, atmosphere or beauty of the passage are, and how they are achieved.

How should I write my commentary?

There are no fixed rules for writing a commentary, but a general structure will be suggested. You should always PLAN your commentary before you start writing it, following these guidelines where appropriate.

1 Introduction

Put the passage into context , and summarise its arguments briefly (in a few sentences): do not spend too much time discussing matters outside of the passage.
You should assume that your reader has read the work from which the passage has been taken.
You may want to point out the passage's most important thematic and structural aspects in your introduction.
Introduce the main themes and structural aspects of the passage.
What kind of passage is it (description/dialogue/free indirect speech), and what is its function (in the rest of the work)?
What is its overall structure (repetitious/circuIar/leitmotifs/develops to a climax)?
What is the narrative point of view (first-person/third-person/omniscient or not)?
What are the register (high/low) and tone (comic/surreal) of the passage?

3 Detailed Analysis

This is the most substantial part of the commentary. It should not be simple description or paraphrase, but an analysis of how the language of the passage functions. The following are aspects of the text that you should look for:

Sentence structure
Tense usage
Word order (balance or lack thereof, harmony, repetition, parallels)
Figurative language (imagery, metaphors, similes, symbolism, allegory, personification, myth, antithesis, irony, paradox)
Characterisation (or lack thereof)
Narrative technique/point of view (first/third person, limited point of view, stream of consciousness)
Punctuation
Alliteration, assonance, rhyme (poetry and prose)

Remember that no text is likely to have instances of all of these elements, and that it is best to concentrate on those that are most relevant to the passage in question. Also, you should avoid simply commenting on the appearance of a particular technique: make sure you say why this is worth noticing. Ideally, your comments should cohere to explain how the various linguistic devices combine to produce the overall effect intended by the author.

4 Conclusion

Summarise your findings, drawing together the different aspects of the text that you have discussed in your commentary.
Assess briefly the achievements and significance of the passage, both in itself and in relation to the work from which it is taken.

Some useful aids to commentary-writing

Nurse, P. (ed.), The Art of Criticism: Essays in French Literary Analysis (Edinburgh, 1969) (sample commentaries of French literary texts)
Biard, J. D., Lexique pour I 'explication de texte (Exeter, 1980)
Benac, H., Vocabulaire de la dissertation (Paris, 1949)

(Binac and Biard provide lists of technical terms used in close analysis of a literary text in French, and give explanations and examples of usage)

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Full How-to Guide for an Exceptional Commentary Essay

If you’ve arrived on this page, you probably have a commentary essay due. It can seem like a daunting task, but fear not, as it’s not as complicated as it might seem. We’re used to providing commentary in our day-to-day life, be it about a piece of news or gossip you’ve just heard, a sports event, or even an update from a family member, so your task is only to take that habit and put it into a more formal form of commentary in writing. So, whether you are struggling to pick the right topic or just need some tips on how to go about developing your writing skills, our informative guide will help you with any and all of the points!

What is a Commentary in Writing: Unlocking the Mystery

Let’s get the most important definition out of the way, that is what does commentary mean in writing.

It’s a genre of writing that analyzes and interprets ideas, trends, and events to find different meanings and patterns in them. When writing commentary, you shouldn’t simply do a general overview, but find a way for your reader to make sense of the topic you are covering. You should also try to find a unique viewpoint on things, so your reader can discover the causes and consequences of a specific issue you are covering and in turn make their own judgments about them.

What is a Commentary Essay in a Nutshell

A simple commentary essay definition is that it’s a paper where you provide your opinion on a specific subject. It can be done as a response to another piece of writing like a book, article, or blog post, or you can choose an issue you want to cover and do a commentary essay about it. It goes without saying that you will need to do your research, no matter the topic of your paper, and provide your own take on the situation, using solid evidence and example to support your point. That is exactly why professors love to assign this task to their students, as commentary writing is a great way to show your critical thinking skills, as well as your ability to analyze a subject and provide a unique take on it.

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Commentary Essay Format: Covering the Basics

The commentary essay structure follows the standard formula of the introduction that includes your thesis statement, main body paragraphs, and a conclusion paragraph. Depending on your word count, you might have more than one body paragraph, plus you’ll need to decide how big they are and how deep you can delve into the subject. Another pretty standard rule is that you need to have at least one respectable source for each page of your commentary essay. With the basics out of the way, here are some tips to get you started on your commentary in an essay writing:

Dedicate some time to come up with your thesis statement, so it’s catchy and clear at the same time, while also covering all of the arguments you’ll be making in the main body paragraphs.
Delve deep into your subject and offer your reader some food for thought, so that after reading your paper they still want to think about your points and maybe even act on some of them.
Try to engage your reader in a conversation and demonstrate your point of view in a way that they can be open to it, even if their opinion on the subject differs from yours.
Don’t be shy and state your opinion clearly without trying to be too neutral or objective about the subject.

Commentary Essay Outline and How to Fill it Out

Now that you have a general idea of what your commentary essay should be about and look like, let’s delve into more specific steps of filling out your commentary paper outline:

Title. It should be as short as possible, catchy, and relevant to your topic.
Introduction .
Hook sentence. Make sure to grab your reader’s attention right away.
Author, title, main characters, summary. That’s in case you are doing a commentary essay based on a text. If you are covering an issue, a brief summary of its history and significant points should be there as well.
Thesis statement. Help your reader to understand the direction of your essay.
Main body paragraph(s).
Topic sentence. It should illustrate how you are going to support your thesis.
A quote. Depending on the material you are covering it should be from the text you are covering or a reliable source related to the topic you will be discussing.
Analysis from the quote. Show how it supports your thesis.
Closing sentence. It should wrap up the paragraph nicely, and for the first and second body paragraphs, provide a transition to the next one.
Concluding paragraph. Here you should summarize your main paragraphs, tie that to your thesis statement, possibly extend your argument and reiterate why the topic of your essay is important.

How to Write a Commentary Essay: Tips for Perfection

We’ve covered what a standard commentary essay should look like, but what about how to write a good commentary? Well, we’ve got your back even there!

There is one piece of advice that merits be mentioned outside of the list below. It’s that the driving point of the commentary essay is your unique take on the text or the issue you are covering. Your ideas make the backbone of your paper, so take extra care to formulate them clearly. When conveying your ideas, concentrate on the main thing you want to get across to your reader. Don’t expect them to understand your take from hints, be clear and concise in what you want to say. Now let’s check those steps you’ll need to take for a perfect commentary essay!

Make sure that you understand the prompt. You have to thoroughly get the question or topic of your essay. If you are not sure what’s being asked of you, ask your professor.
Do some brainstorming. Try to come up with different topics for your essay and different angles you can explore in the main body paragraphs. Make sure to jot down any idea you have, no matter how small or fragmented it is. When you’ve picked the main topic or angle, start fleshing it out with examples.
Come up with a thesis statement. It will guide your essay from the introduction to the conclusion, so make sure it’s solid. A clear and specific thesis statement is especially important in a commentary essay, as it will tell your reader what kind of take to expect from your paper.
Get to the research. Even if you are familiar with your subject, you still need reliable sources to help you support the points you’ll argue in your essay. Plus, it’s always better to delve into the subject even deeper to better understand it, so you can produce a coherent and well-informed paper.
Flesh out your outline. Once you have a good idea of the direction you want your essay to go in, start adding to the outline template mentioned above.
Edit, proofread, and ask for feedback. When you finish your final draft, let it sit for a day, if possible, and then reread it to eliminate any mistakes you might have made. Alternatively, ask your friends to read the essay for you and give you feedback on it.

40 Engaging Commentary Topics to Choose From

Choosing the right topic is detrimental to the quality of your commentary essay. Not only it will influence how productive your research and writing process will be, but it will also provide a level of engagement your professor will definitely pick up on when reading your paper. Look through the list of commentary paper topics our writers have put together and see if you find the one you’ve been looking for!

Accuracy of understanding other people’s feelings.
Novel approaches to public administration in developing countries.
The role a leader exerts on a crowd.
Factors that contribute to interpersonal attraction.
The role of image in compensating for possible physical unattractiveness.
Factors that influence successful socialization.
Social stereotypes based on ethnicity or age.
The role of the modern family as an institution.
The concept of personal influence and its significance.
The main sources of social conflict in modern society.
The role of socialization in different genders.
The main factors of social inequality today.
The effectiveness of social conflict management and resolution.
How to organize social processes for optimal outcomes.
The role of moral and ethical standards in modern public office.
Sociology of modern youth.
The social role of college students in modern society.
Understanding suicide as a form of deviant behavior.
Subcultures as a means of interpersonal and intercultural communication.
The relationship and impact of TV in modern society.
The position of the US in the global community.
Major areas of innovation in real estate management and development.
Unemployment: causes, forms, and regulation methods.
Government role in supporting innovation.
Innovative governance: objectives, functions, and principles.
Perception of significance when selecting people who matter.
Competitiveness as a measure of business performance.
Classifying cryptocurrency enterprises in modern times.
Novel organizational models for innovative enterprises.
Methods for generating new business ideas.
Process of developing an effective business plan.
Methods for evaluating the efficiency of innovations.
Discounting as a method of evaluating business efficiency.
Financial support for cryptocurrency projects.
Creating an effective business plan structure.
The intellectual property market and its operation.
Comparing venture business in the USA and EU.
Innovation marketing: key considerations.
The significance of the intellectual property in modern entrepreneurship.
Managing the creation and utilization of new cryptocurrency.

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Commentary Essay Example With Explication and Writing Tips

By: Tasha Kolesnikova

The essay commentary aims to analyze the text read. You can write a comment on how the plot of the novel reveals the social situation of the era, or how the author's life is evidenced in the text. The commentary can be based on one element of a literary work or analyze general features. The choice will depend on the author of the essay.

Commentary Essay Example (On Poem "When You Are Old" By Yates)

Literary commentary and data commentary, commentary essay writing algorithm, remember when writing a commentary essay, conclusions.

Below you can get acquainted with the genre of commentary essay.

William Butler Yates' poem When You're Old (1895) is about love. This is evidenced by the language and literary images used. These two elements combine to create a work that represents the nostalgia and depression generated by lost love.

At the beginning of the poem, "old, gray and sleepy" woman allows herself to plunge into the past. Holding a Yates book, she recalls the days when she was young and beautiful.

This scene takes place by the fireplace and gives the poem a special tone. And this is a very strong image because the atmosphere of old age, lost love, and memories will prevail throughout the work.

To enhance the emotionality of the text, Yates uses a number of characters. One such symbol is the hearth.

It is a symbol of the ephemeral being. Yes, the fire burns beautifully and brightly, but sooner or later, it will burn out, and only ashes will remain. Nothing lasts forever. The heroine of the poem, like fire, will one day simply disappear.

Fire can have another meaning. It can mean a passion that has passed. After all, a woman once had love, but she lost it. And sitting by the fireplace, she can dream and imagine how this former passion comes to life.

There are other symbols in the work. There are stars in the sky and high mountains. They symbolize inaccessibility—the things that a woman can no longer bring back into her life. And the only thing that reminds her of her past life and what she felt then is Yates' book.

The author's choice of language is significant in the poem. He wrote the poem in the first person; it gives it intimacy, empathy, and sadness. It seems that the narrator knows about the consequences of this woman's actions and tries to avert them.

The poem clearly shows the connection between Yates and the old lady, as evidenced by the use of imperative verbs ("Take down this book and slowly read it, and dream of a soft look in your eyes").

Yates's poem is a good example of how to convey strong emotions to readers through language and integrated images. The use of symbols instead of direct messages adds a work of pleasant mystery.

What Is A Commentary?

Unlike the average reader, the commentator "translates" the text into his own language. The author of the commentary essay interprets the text in his own way, expressing his impressions. He logically argues his judgments.

In our opinion, the general definition of a commentary essay is:

It is a detailed analysis of a passage of the work or the work itself, which does not require the expression of thesis statements or a more general discussion of the whole book (as in literary analysis). In such an essay, the author does not simply summarize what he has read but expresses his own thoughts and analyzes the key points in the work.

It should be noted that there are two types of commentary essays: literary and data. Literary commentary is an in-depth analysis of a passage of a literary work or text. Whereas, data commentary is a piece of writing that comments on a visual display. Its main purpose is to interpret a research paper.

Build-up. You have to be ready to write a comment. To do this, you need to be an expert in the text you are analyzing. So read it from cover to cover. When you have done this, read it aloud again. If you do not understand any words or expressions, be sure to find out their meaning.

The printed version will greatly facilitate the work on the text. So you can work with the work, using a marker to emphasize the main points or something that needs separate processing. You can also use ready-made sample essays and templates to understand in which direction to move. If you have no opinion at all about the commentary essay, look for the write my essay button in the writing service.

Sketch the outline of your essay. Make sure it has an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusions.

Writing Commentary

Foundations. Your entry should include the following key elements: the title of the work you are commenting on; the name of the author of the work; genre of the work. In the introductory part, you can also express your main point of view and what affected you the most.

"I was recently impressed by Dewdney's "The Night Wind." He personalizes the wind, giving it his own life. With this image, the author leads the reader on an interesting journey through the universe. Its main theme is an escape from the problems of existence."

Ponderisms. What, in your opinion, is the purpose of the work? What is its intention? Discuss everything that interests you. In the body of the essay, you need to interpret the analyzed piece of literature and show your vision of the work. Use commentary sentences to the main points in the text.

"It should be noted that in the work there are no rhymes, meters, schemes. Dewdney demonstrates carefreeness using free verse. In this way, he expresses the idea of freedom."

Examples. Always back up your thoughts with vivid examples. Don't forget to use quotes.

"The author emphasizes the theme of freedom with bright sentences: "The wind blows forever." There are phrases that inspire the reader to think about the vastness of the universe: "Above me the Milky Way."

Strong conclusion. Consolidate your position in the conclusions. Paraphrase your main idea to finish the comment nicely.

"The "Night wind" is a symbol of escape from the burdens of everyday life. The free, somewhat whimsical structure of the text gives the reader a feeling of lightness and serenity. Reading such a poem, the reader plunges into the incredible world of freedom."

Editing. One of the most important steps in working on a commentary essay is its polishing. Make sure there are no grammatical, stylistic, or other inaccuracies in the text. If you are not a pro at this, it would be better to contact the writing service for essay editing .

The "This shows that" device. Write a topic sentence with evidence. And start the next sentence with the words "this shows that". This method really works because it makes the student explain the quote from the text. For example, in the poem "Night Wind" Dewdney portrays a guy holding a wire. But a strong gust of windbreaks this wire. This shows that the author breaks free from the captivity of problems, and runs away from everything.
Use the LET method. The name of this method stands for Literary Elements and Techniques. And it speaks for itself. You need to identify the literary techniques that the author used in the text. It's about style, character, plot, point of view, language, setting, and conflict. Pay attention to the following methods: metaphors, diction, personification, irony, and others. When you find these elements, explain the topic sentences with them. For example, in the text "Night Wind" the author often uses dark images. The main action takes place at night. Throughout the poem, there is a reference to the stars. The image of the "wings of darkness" emphasizes the mystery of the wind and its freedom.
The concept of four cells. You can use one of the interesting methods of text analysis. This method involves dividing a sheet of paper into four equal parts. Place a topic sentence and a quote in the top two cells. And in the lower squares, write comments to them. This will help you analyze each piece of text and combine the comments into a single whole.

We hope that after our article, you will easily write your commentary essay. We also hope that our sample will help you navigate this topic. If your teacher has given you the assignment to write a commentary essay, you can turn to professional writers who will give you homework help .

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Elements of an Essay: Writing Commentary

For several weeks now, we have been identifying the essential elements of essays and learning how to incorporate these effectively and successfully. We have discussed that the thesis statement is the glue that holds the entire paper together, the body paragraphs are the meat where the majority of your argument will be found, and last week we looked at how the details are the key to unlocking your argument . Today we are going to take a look at the other extremely important factor in writing a well-thought out essay. It is needed for every single detail that you write. It is the commentary.

Commentary Definition

When you write commentary, you are explaining to your reader how the details relate to the thesis statement. Commentary does not contain facts. Instead, they help explain why the details are relevant to the topic.

Writing Commentary

You are going to need at least two sentences of commentary for every detail sentence. A good rule of thumb is that your commentary should be twice as long as your details. Otherwise, your paper is just full of facts. We want to know how YOU think these facts prove your point and what YOU think they mean.

Here are a few different methods for writing commentary:

1) Opinion: this is where you write your belief, subjective judgment or way of thinking about a detail .

2) Interpretation: your explanation of something that is not clear.

3) Character and Subject’s Feelings: when you describe what the character or subject of the detail is feeling (ideal for literary analysis papers)

4) Personal Reaction: your personal emotions about the detail.

5) Evaluations: your objective judgment of a detail.

Commentary is the Treasure

Your commentary is the treasure that makes your paper shine. It should always strengthen and extend the details. This is your chance to show us what you’ve got. It is where you can impress us with your analysis and interpretation skills.

“What and Why” Method

You may be thinking, “Analysis and interpretation skills? What if I don’t possess those skills?” Well breathe easy, because interpretation is really just a fancy word for “what,” while analysis simply means “why”.

So if you are struggling to write your commentary try using the “what and why” method. First, tell the reader WHAT your detail is talking about by defining or explaining. Next, let your reader know WHY this detail is relevant to your thesis statement.

Starting Commentary Sentences

If you are struggling to start your commentary, consider beginning your commentary in one of the following ways:

“This shows that…”

“This is important because…”

Obviously, you cannot start every sentence you write like that since this would be redundant. However, even if you do not write these phrases at the beginning of all of your sentences, it is helpful even just to think these phrases in order to guide your commentary in the right direction.

Applying Commentary Techniques

Now that we have discussed the different options for writing commentary, and the method for doing so, let’s put them together and see what is looks like.

Commentary Type: Opinion using the “what and why” method

Topic: education

Detail: According to the 2013 National Assessment of Education Progress Reading test, 80% of students score below grade level in reading.

Commentary: Your commentary for this detail will answer the following questions: (1) “WHAT is my opinion?” and (2) “WHY is my opinion relevant to my thesis statement?”

(1) A statistic like this shows the poor state of the education. (2) If we are to help students become successful adults, we need to change the way we are educating our children.

Commentary Type: Interpretation using the “what and why” method

Topic: benefits of college

Detail: First of all, of 2,350,000 college students enrolling per year, only 1,750,000 will graduate.

Commentary: Your commentary for this detail will answer the following questions: (1) “WHAT is my interpretation?” and (2) “WHY is my interpretation relevant to my thesis statement?”

(1) This shows that the high demand placed on students during their college years is too much stress for many. (2) However rigorous it may be though, the pressure and expectations are reflective of a future career and help prepare young adults for these challenges.

Commentary Type: Character or Subject Feelings using the “what and why” method

Topic: cost of higher education

Detail: For example, Benjamin Davis, a recent college graduate with a degree in Business, struggled for many years to find a job because of the recent unemployment struggles in America

Commentary: Your commentary for this detail will answer the following questions: (1) “WHAT is the subject’s feelings?” and (2) “WHY is subjects feelings relevant to my thesis statement?”

(1) He, like most, experiences extreme frustration at spending a great deal of time and money obtaining his degree, but feeling like he has very little advantage over others without a degree when finding a job. (2) As a result, many who find themselves in a similar situation are left wondering if higher education is worth the high cost.

Commentary Type: Personal Reaction using the “what and why” method

Topic: bullying

Detail: Also, a bully might speak cruelly in order to intimidate, steal a student’s belongings, or intentionally exclude one from a group .

Commentary: Your commentary for this detail will answer the following questions: (1) “WHAT is my personal reaction?” and (2) “WHY is my personal reaction relevant to my thesis statement?”

(1) It is extremely upsetting to know that most children undergo this type of treatment at school. (2) It is hurtful, isolating, and can have long-lasting psychological damage on those students who experience bullying often.

Commentary Type: Evaluation using the “what and why” method

Topic: bears

Detail: Naturally, a bear, when threatened, will rise up from the ground, growl loudly, and begin charging at a speed of up to 35 mph.

Commentary: Your commentary for this detail will answer the following questions: (1) “WHAT is my evaluation?” and (2) “WHY is my evaluation relevant to my thesis statement?”

(1) Although this is a frightening experience, it is not entirely the bear’s fault. (2) In fact, most of the time when a bear attacks a person, it is the result of a person not understanding that when going out into the woods, he or she is entering a bear’s environment; forgetting to be respectful and cautious can cause the bear to react thusly.

When To Use Commentary Types

Depending on your assignment, choose the types of commentary that best fits your argument. Use of a variety of different types of commentary to write a well-argued paper.

Go back and look at step two of writing details from last week’s blog. Look at the commentary you wrote and update it to fit into the “what and why” method using some of the above types of commentary. If you did not do that step last week, go ahead and use the worksheet found here.

We hope this helped you when writing commentary. If you still need help, call Oxford Tutoring for support or to schedule a writing tutoring session.

Author: oxfordtutoringblog

Oxford Tutoring specializes in K-12 tutoring in English, mathematics, science and test preparation. We provide skill building and homework help in private, one-on-one sessions coordinated with our student’s classroom programs, but focused on the way in which each student learns. Working to better each student’s academic success, Oxford Tutoring personalizes our tutoring approach to best meet the education needs of our students. View All Posts

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That actually explain what's on your next test, from class:, ap english literature.

Commentary refers to the analysis and interpretation of specific textual evidence in a literary analysis essay. It involves providing insightful explanations, observations, and opinions about the significance and meaning of the evidence.

Related terms

Textual Evidence : Textual evidence refers to specific quotes or examples from a literary work that support your arguments. It serves as the foundation for commentary by providing concrete proof for your claims.

Analysis : Analysis involves breaking down complex elements of a literary work to examine their significance or deeper meaning. In an essay, commentary relies heavily on analysis to explore how different aspects contribute to the overall interpretation.

Interpretation : Interpretation focuses on understanding and explaining various meanings or messages within a literary work. Commentary often involves offering thoughtful interpretations that go beyond surface-level understanding.

" Commentary " also found in:

Subjects ( 15 ).

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Greek and Roman Comedy
Introduction to Christianity
Media Law and Policy
Radio Newsroom
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United States Law and Legal Analysis
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Practice Questions ( 3 )

What is the role of commentary in a literary analysis essay?
What is the purpose of commentary in a literary argument?
How does commentary relate to the thesis statement in a literary argument?

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The Role of Commentary in Rhetorical Analysis

Call it what you will—analysis, evaluation, commentary—this piece of rhetorical analysis is OPINION. Evidence is FACT, and commentary is OPINION. (When I’m training students to recognize the difference between the two, we use color coding. You can read more about how I do that here. )

Where students get tripped up is in misunderstanding the actual role of commentary; perhaps they see it as filler or some kind of semi-important text that is loosely associated with nearby evidence. If the latter is the case, they’re in the ballpark, so let’s get those writers into an actual seat. For the purpose of this post, we’ll talk specifically about rhetorical analysis since so many teachers begin with that skill set.

Commentary’s Jobs in Rhetorical Analysis

Job #1: make connections.

I made this super short video to explain visually what you’ll read below.

WHAT IS COMMENTARY? VIDEO (TWO MINUTES)

Analysis—what we’re calling commentary—is the student’s opinion about the way evidence proves the truth of a topic sentence, which defends the truth of the controlling thesis statement. Here’s how the connecting works. A rhetorical analysis essay has a thesis, which is a controlling idea. All ideas within the essay defend this one. If an idea does not defend this one, it has to go. I call that trimming the fat.

On the front lines of the defense of that thesis are the topic sentences. For a timed essay, we’re probably looking at two or three of those. Each of those topic sentences is a debatable idea that must also be defended. What defends each topic sentence is evidence, factual information taken from the text. Evidence defends the topic sentence, which defends the thesis. Here we go: The job of commentary is to tie the evidence to the topic sentence. This is where the student offers OPINION about how the factual evidence illustrates the truth of the topic sentence.

By connecting the evidence to the topic sentence and the topic sentence to the thesis, the commentary defends the thesis. This chain of defense is the way I wrap my mind around line of reasoning.

Done well, it’s beautiful. Done poorly, it looks like A LOT what we see in student essays.

J ob #2: Illustrate Critical Thinking

Commentary separates the men from boys, the wheat from the chaff, the analogies from the metaphors. Every writing rubric I’ve ever seen rewards it heavily.

On the AP Language Question 2 rubric, take a look at this wording for the column that awards all four points for evidence and commentary:

EVIDENCE: Provides specific evidence to support all claims in a line of reasoning. AND COMMENTARY: Consistently explains how the evidence supports a line of reasoning. AND Explains how multiple rhetorical choices in the passage contribute to the writer’s argument, purpose, or message.

That’s THIS illustration! There are only four points to be had on this rubric, and FOUR of them are awarded to the process I described in that short little video above.

A student who creates that defense chain consistently with depth could even earn the sophistication point. That’s five out of six. Without a defensible thesis, that student could never have earned the four points for evidence and commentary because there was nothing to defend. That’s six out of six.

Translation: A student who understands the defense chain of a topic sentence being defended by topic sentences that are supported by evidence with connecting commentary is in the five-six range because that student’s maturity of thought is on full display to a reader.

What Commentary’s Role is NOT

Commentary’s job is not to provide proof from the text, either through direct quotations, paraphrasing, summarizing, or repetition of the actual evidence. When training students to write strong commentary, I suggest that we put off sentence combining; have students differentiate evidence from commentary through color coding so that both you and they can see that each piece of evidence has a tendon, a connector that ties the evidence to the topic sentence.

Once kids know what commentary is and isn’t–and all their English teachers communicate so they’re all using the same terminology–they can produce insightful, connected analysis.

Be on the lookout for more rhetorical analysis tips in your inbox. not on my email list you can join here, and i’ll send you a commentary anchor chart..

I’m a recovering high school English teacher and curriculum specialist with a passion for helping teachers leave school at school. I create engaging, rigorous curriculum resources for secondary ELA professionals, and I facilitate workshops to help those teachers implement the materials effectively.

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A Research Guide
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Assignment Writing

How to Write a Commentary Essay

What is a literary commentary, steps to prepare for a commentary, steps to write the commentary, it takes a broad thinking and analysis, it should be critical yet with a respectful tone, prepare before writing, outline the main points.

Useful information: Check research paper outline example and learn how to write it.

Check out our full review: Read More

Identifying the basic information

Mention about the theme, subject, and audience, observe the structure and genre of the content, identify how the text is presented, understand the tone, look for the literary devices that deepen the meaning, take the quotes included in the text, wrapping up your commentary with a summary, make your commentary presentable, ask for the feedback.

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College essay

Common App Essays | 7 Strong Examples with Commentary

Published on November 19, 2021 by Kirsten Courault . Revised on May 31, 2023.

If you’re applying for college via the Common App , you’ll have to write an essay in response to one of seven prompts.

What is the common application essay, prompt 1: background, identity, interest, or talent, prompt 2: overcoming challenges, prompt 3: questioning a belief or idea, prompt 4: appreciating an influential person, prompt 5: transformative event, prompt 6: interest or hobby that inspires learning, prompt 7: free topic, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about college application essays.

The Common Application, or Common App , is a college application portal that is accepted by more than 900 schools.

Within the Common App is your main essay, a primary writing sample that all your prospective schools will read to evaluate your critical thinking skills and value as a student. Since this essay is read by many colleges, avoid mentioning any college names or programs. Instead, save tailored answers for the supplementary school-specific essays within the Common App.

Regardless of your prompt choice, admissions officers will look for an ability to clearly and creatively communicate your ideas based on the selected prompt.

We’ve provided seven essay examples, one for each of the Common App prompts. After each essay, we’ve provided a table with commentary on the essay’s narrative, writing style and tone, demonstrated traits, and self-reflection.

Prevent plagiarism. Run a free check.

This essay explores the student’s emotional journey toward overcoming her father’s neglect through gymnastics discipline.

Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.

When “The Devil Went Down to Georgia” began to play, it was my signal to lay out a winning floor routine. Round off. Back handspring. Double back layout. Stick!

Instead, I jolted off the floor, landing out of bounds. Over the past week, I hadn’t landed that pass once, and regionals were only seven days away. I heaved a heavy sigh and stomped over to the bench.

Coach Farkas saw my consternation. “Mona, get out of your head. You’re way too preoccupied with your tumbling passes. You could do them in your sleep!”

That was the problem. I was dreaming of tumbling and missing my landings, waking up in a cold sweat. The stress felt overwhelming.

“Stretch out. You’re done for tonight.”

I walked home from the gym that had been my second home since fourth grade. Yet my anxiety was increasing every time I practiced.

I startled my mom. “You’re home early! Wait! You walked? Mona, what’s going on?!”

I slumped down at the kitchen table. “Don’t know.”

She sat down across from me. “Does it have anything to do with your father texting you a couple of weeks ago about coming to see you at regionals?”

“So what?! Why does it matter anymore?” He walked out when I was 10 and never looked back. Still, dear ol’ Dad always had a way of resurfacing when I least expected him.

“It still matters because when you hear from him, you tend to crumble. Or have you not noticed?” She offered a knowing wink and a compassionate smile.

I started gymnastics right after Dad left. The coaches said I was a natural: short, muscular, and flexible. All I knew was that the more I improved, the more confident I felt. Gymnastics made me feel powerful, so I gave it my full energy and dedication.

The floor routine became my specialty, and my performances were soon elevating our team score. The mat, solid and stable, became a place to explore and express my internal struggles. Over the years, no matter how angry I felt, the floor mat was there to absorb my frustration.

The bars, beam, and vault were less forgiving because I knew I could fall. My performances in those events were respectable. But, the floor? Sometimes, I had wildly creative and beautiful routines, while other times were disastrous. Sadly, my floor routine had never been consistent.

That Saturday afternoon, I slipped into the empty gym and walked over to the mat. I sat down and touched its carpeted surface. After a few minutes, my cheeks were wet with the bitter disappointment of a dad who only showed up when it was convenient for him. I ruminated on the years of practices and meets where I had channeled my resentment into acrobatics and dance moves, resolved to rise higher than his indifference.

I saw then that my deepest wounds were inextricably entangled with my greatest passion. They needed to be permanently separated. While my anger had first served to launch me into gymnastics, before long, I had started serving my anger.

Anger is a cruel master. It corrupts everything it touches, even something as beautiful as a well-choreographed floor routine.

I changed my music days before regionals. “The Devil” no longer had a place in my routine. Instead, I chose an energetic cyberpunk soundtrack that inspired me to perform with passion and laser focus. Dad made an obligatory appearance at regionals, but he left before I could talk to him.

It didn’t matter this time. I stuck every landing in my routine. Anger no longer controlled me. I was finally free.

Word count: 601

College essay checklist
	The student makes a unique connection, showing how her troubled relationship with her floor routine is connected to her anger at her absent father. However, rather than focusing on her difficult past, she highlights a key moment when she overcame her anger and made peace with her relationships with her dad and with gymnastics.
	The essay uses a conversational tone but selectively employs elevated language that fits the student’s vocabulary range. The student uses personification to illustrate her close relationship to anger and gymnastics, such as “anger is a cruel master” and “the bars, beam, and vault were less forgiving.”
	Through showing, not telling, the student clearly demonstrates dedication, hard work, and resilience. She also displays her commitment to emotional growth and character.
	In the final paragraphs, the student contemplates her troubled relationship with her floor routine and realizes its connection to her absent father. She explains how this insight healed her and allowed her to freely perform without anger.

This essay shows how the challenges the student faced in caring for her sister with autism resulted in an unexpected path forward in her education.

The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?

I never had a choice.

My baby sister was born severely autistic, which meant that every detail of our home life was repeatedly adjusted to manage her condition. I couldn’t go to bed without fearing that Mindy would wake up screaming with that hoarse little voice of hers. I couldn’t have friends over on weekends because we never knew if our entire family would need to shift into crisis mode to help Mindy regain control.

We couldn’t take a family vacation because Mindy would start hitting us during a long car ride when she didn’t want to sit there anymore. We couldn’t even celebrate Christmas like a normal family because Mindy would shriek and run away when we tried to give her presents.

I was five years old when Mindy was born. For the first ten years, I did everything I could to help my mom with Mindy. But Mom was depressed and would often stare out the window, as if transfixed by the view. Dad was no help either. He used his job as an excuse to be away from home. So, I tried to make up for both of them and rescue Mindy however I could whenever she needed it.

However, one day, when I was slowly driving Mindy around with the windows down, trying to lull her into a calmer state, we passed two of my former classmates from middle school. They heard Mindy growling her disapproval as the ride was getting long for her. One of them turned to the other and announced, “Oh my God! Marabeth brought her pet monster out for a drive!” They laughed hysterically and ran down the street.

After that day, I defied my parents at every turn. I also ignored Mindy. I even stopped doing homework. I purposely “got in with the wrong crowd” and did whatever they did.

My high school counselor Ms. Martinez saw through it all. She knew my family’s situation well. It didn’t take her long to guess what had probably happened.

“Marabeth, I get it. My brother has Down syndrome. It was really hard growing up with him as a brother. The other kids were pretty mean about it, especially in high school.”

I doubted she understood. “Yeah. So?”

“I’m guessing something happened that hurt or embarrassed you.”

“I’m so sorry. I can only imagine how you must have felt.”

It must have been the way she said it because I suddenly found myself sobbing into my trembling, cupped hands.

Ms. Martinez and I met every Friday after that for the rest of the year. Her stories of how she struggled to embrace living with and loving her brother created a bridge to my pain and then my healing. She explained that her challenges led her to pursue a degree in counseling so that she could offer other people what no one had given her.

I thought that Mindy was the end of my life, but, because of Ms. Martinez’s example and kindness, I can now see that Mindy is a gift, pointing me toward my future.

Now, I’m applying to study psychology so that I can go on to earn my master’s degree in counseling. I’m learning to forgive my parents for their mistakes, and I’m back in Mindy’s life again, but this time as a sister, not a savior. My choice.

Word Count: 553

College essay checklist
	The essay has a logical flow. It starts by explaining the student’s challenges as her sister’s caretaker, describes her breaking point, and then shows how her counselor pointed her toward a new perspective and career path. It also avoids dwelling on negative details and concludes with a positive outlook and action.
	The student’s tone is appropriately conversational to illustrate her feelings with vulnerability.
	The essay clearly shows the student’s commitment, resilience, and sacrifice through the narrative of her caring for her sister.
	The student reveals her honest thoughts and feelings. She also explains how her counselor helped her see her sister as a gift who motivated her to pursue a meaningful career path.

This essay illustrates a student’s courage in challenging his culture’s constructs of manhood and changing his course while positively affecting his father in the process.

Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?

“No son of mine is gonna march around a football field wearing tail feathers while all the real men are playing football!”

I took a step backward and tried not to appear as off-balance as I felt. In my excitement, I had blurted out more information than my father could handle:

“Dad! I made the marching band as a freshman! Nobody does that—I mean nobody!”

As soon as I had said it, I wished I could recall those words. How could I forget that 26 years earlier, he had been the starting wide receiver for the state-champion Tigers on the same field?!

Still, when I opened the email on that scorching hot August afternoon, I was thrilled that five months of practicing every possible major and harmonic minor scale—two octaves up and two octaves down—had made the difference. I had busted reed after reed, trying not to puff my cheeks while moving my fingers in a precise cadence.

I knew he had heard me continually practicing in my room, yet he seemed to ignore all the parts of me that were incongruous with his vision of manhood:

Ford F-150 4x4s. Pheasant hunting. The Nebraska Cornhuskers.

I never had to wonder what he valued. For years, I genuinely shared his interests. But, in the fall of eighth grade, I heard Kyle Wheeling play a saxophone solo during the homecoming marching band halftime show. My dad took me to every football game to teach me the plays, but that night, all I could think about was Kyle’s bluesy improv at halftime.

During Thanksgiving break, I got my mom to drive me into Omaha to rent my instrument at Dietze Music, and, soon after, I started private lessons with Mr. Ken. Before long, I was spending hours in my room, exploring each nuance of my shiny Yamaha alto sax, anticipating my audition for the Marching Tigers at the end of the spring semester.

During those months of practice, I realized that I couldn’t hide my newfound interest forever, especially not from the football players who were going to endlessly taunt me. But not all the guys played football. Some were in choir and theater. Quite a few guys were in the marching band. In fact, the Marching Tigers had won the grand prize in their division at last year’s state showdown in Lincoln.

I was excited! They were the champions, and I was about to become a part of their legacy.

Yet, that afternoon, a sense of anxiety brewed in my belly. I knew I had to talk to him.

He was sweeping the grass clippings off of the sidewalk. He nodded.

“I need to tell you something.”

He looked up.

“I know that you know about my sax because you hear me practicing. I like it a lot, and I’m becoming pretty good at it. I still care about what you like, but I’m starting to like some other things more. I hope you’ll be proud of me whatever I choose.”

He studied the cracks in the driveway. “I am proud of you. I just figured you’d play football.”

We never talked about it again, but that fall, he was in the stands when our marching band won the state championship in Lincoln for the second time. In fact, for the next four years, he never left the stands during halftime until the marching band had performed. He was even in the audience for every performance of “Our Town” at the end of my junior year. I played the Stage Manager who reveals the show’s theme: everything changes gradually.

I know it’s true. Things do change over time, even out here in central Nebraska. I know because I’ve changed, and my dad has changed, too. I just needed the courage to go first.

Word count: 626

College essay checklist
	The essay starts with a picture of confrontation that directly reflects the prompt. It then paints a chronological narrative of the student’s journey toward change, while using the literary device of flashback in the middle to add background and clarity to the story.
	The student uses a conversational yet respectful tone for a college essay. He effectively uses dialogue to highlight important moments of conflict and mutual understanding throughout the story.
	The student clearly demonstrates the qualities of self-reflection, courage, and integrity without directly claiming to have them (show, don’t tell).
	The student offers an honest assessment of his culture’s traditional views of manhood, his reasons for challenging them, and his appreciation for his father’s acceptance of his choices.

The student demonstrates how his teacher giving him an unexpected bad grade was the catalyst for his becoming a better writer.

Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?

I stared in disbelief at the big red letter at the top of my paper: D.

Never in my entire high school career had I seen that letter at the top of any paper, unless it was at the beginning of my first name.

I had a 4.796 GPA. I had taken every pre-AP and AP course offered. My teachers had praised my writing skills! However, Mr. Trimble didn’t think so, and he let me know it:

“Darwin, in the future, I believe you can do better if you fully apply yourself.”

I furiously scanned the paper for corrections. Not even one! Grammar and syntax? Perfect. Spelling? Impeccable. Sentence and paragraph structure? Precise and indisputable, as always.

Was he trying to ruin my GPA? Cooper was clearly his favorite, and we were neck and neck for valedictorian, which was only one year away. Maybe they were conspiring to take me down.

Thankfully, AP Composition was my last class. I fled the room and ran to my car. Defiant tears stained my cheeks as I screeched my tires and roared out of the parking lot. When I got home, I shoved in my AirPods, flopped on my bed, and buried my head under the pillow.

I awoke to my sister, Daria, gently shaking my arm. “I know what happened, D. Trimble stopped me in the hall after school.”

“I’m sure he did. He’s trying to ruin my life.”

“That’s not what he told me. You should talk to him, D.”

The next day, although I tried to avoid Mr. Trimble at all costs, I almost tripped over him as I was coming out of the bathroom.

“Darwin, can we talk?”

He walked me down the hall to his room. “Do you know that you’re one of the best writers I’ve ever had in AP Comp?”

“Then why’d you do it?”

“Because you’re better than you know, Darwin. You impress with your perfect presentations, and your teachers reward you with A’s and praise. I do frequent the teacher’s lounge, you know.”

“So I know you’re not trying.”

I locked eyes with him and glared.

“You’ve never had to try because you have a gift. And, in the midst of the acclaim, you’ve never pushed yourself to discover your true capabilities.”

“So you give me a D?!”

“It got your attention.”

“You’re not going to leave it, are you?”

“Oh, the D stands. You didn’t apply yourself. You’ll have to earn your way out with your other papers.”

I gained a new understanding of the meaning of ambivalence. Part of me was furious at the injustice of the situation, but I also felt strangely challenged and intrigued. I joined a local writer’s co-op and studied K. M. Weiland’s artistic writing techniques.

Multiple drafts, track changes, and constructive criticism became my new world. I stopped taking Mr. Trimble’s criticism personally and began to see it as a precious tool to bolster me, not break me down.

Last week, the New York Public Library notified me that I was named one of five finalists for the Young Lions Fiction Award. They described my collection of short stories as “fresh, imaginative, and captivating.”

I never thought I could be grateful for a D, but Mr. Trimble’s insightful courage was the catalyst that transformed my writing and my character. Just because other people applaud you for being the best doesn’t mean you’re doing your best .

AP Composition is now recorded as an A on my high school transcript, and Cooper and I are still locked in a tight race for the finish line. But, thanks to Mr. Trimble, I have developed a different paradigm for evaluation: my best. And the more I apply myself, the better my best becomes.

Word Count: 627

College essay checklist
	The essay begins with an attention-grabbing statement that immediately captures the essence of surprise requested in the prompt. The story then unfolds in a logical sequence, taking the reader on a journey of unexpected transformation.
	The student uses an accessible, casual tone that works well in light of his expertise in writing. His use of dialogue with nicknames and colloquialism brings a conversational tone to the storyline.
	The student openly shows his motivation for success and his feelings toward his peers and teacher. However, he demonstrates humility in accepting criticism, responding with a diligent attempt to improve his writing skills.
	The essay concludes with growth in the student’s character and self-discipline while his circumstances remained the same. He brings the prompt full circle, expressing his gratitude toward his teacher.

This student narrates how she initially went to church for a boy but instead ended up confronting her selfishness by helping others.

Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.

Originally, I went to church not because I was searching for Jesus but because I liked a boy.

Isaac Ono wasn’t the most athletic boy in our class, nor was he the cutest. But I was amazed by his unusual kindness toward everyone. If someone was alone or left out, he’d walk up to them and say hello or invite them to hang out with him and his friends.

I started waking up at 7:30 a.m. every Sunday morning to attend Grace Hills Presbyterian, where Isaac’s father was the pastor. I would strategically sit in a pew not too close but close enough to Isaac that when the entire congregation was instructed to say “Peace be with you,” I could “happen” to shake Isaac’s hand and make small talk.

One service, as I was staring at the back of Isaac’s head, pondering what to say to him, my hearing suddenly tuned in to his father’s sermon.

“There’s no such thing as a good or bad person.”

My eyes snapped onto Pastor Marcus.

“I used to think I was a good person who came from a respectable family and did nice things. But people aren’t inherently good or bad. They just make good or bad choices.”

My mind raced through a mental checklist of whether my past actions fell mostly into the former or latter category.

“As it says in Deuteronomy 30:15, ‘I have set before you today life and good, death and evil.’ Follow in the footsteps of Jesus and do good.”

I glanced to my left and saw Margaret, underlining passages in her study Bible and taking copious notes.

Months earlier, I had befriended Margaret. We had fourth-period Spanish together but hadn’t interacted much. She was friends with Isaac, so I started hanging out with her to get closer to him. But eventually, the two of us were spending hours in the Starbucks parking lot having intense discussions about religion, boys, and our futures until we had to return home before curfew.

After hearing the pastor’s sermon, I realized that what I had admired about Isaac was also present in Margaret and other people at church: a welcoming spirit. I’m pretty sure Margaret knew of my ulterior motives for befriending her, but she never called me out on it.

After that day, I started paying more attention to Pastor Marcus’s sermons and less attention to Isaac. One year, our youth group served Christmas Eve dinner to the homeless and ate with them. I sat across from a woman named Lila who told me how child services had taken away her four-year-old daughter because of her financial and living situation.

A few days later, as I sat curled up reading the book of James, my heart suddenly felt heavy.

“If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace, be warmed and filled,’ without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that?”

I thought back to Pastor Marcus’s sermon on good and bad actions, Lila and her daughter, and the times I had passed people in need without even saying hello.

I decided to put my faith into action. The next week, I started volunteering at the front desk of a women’s shelter, helping women fill out forms or watching their kids while they talked with social workers.

From working for the past year at the women’s shelter, I now know I want to major in social work, caring for others instead of focusing on myself. I may not be a good person (or a bad one), but I can make good choices, helping others with every opportunity God gives me.

Word count: 622

College essay checklist
	The narrative begins by clearly identifying the prompt: the event of church attendance. It has a clear story arc, starting with the student’s church experiences, moving on to her self-examination, and concluding with the changes she made to her behavior and goals to serve others.
	The student uses dialogue to highlight key moments of realization and transformation. The essay’s tone is casual, helping the reader feel comfortable in the student’s thoughts and memory.
	The student displays an unusual level of self-awareness and maturity by revealing an ulterior motive, the ability to self-reflect, and a desire to authentically apply theoretical teachings in a real-world setting.
	While the topic of church and conversion is common, the student’s narrative weaves in unexpected elements to create interest while clearly answering the prompt.

This essay shows how a student’s natural affinity for solving a Rubik’s cube developed her self-understanding, academic achievement, and inspiration for her future career.

Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?

The worst part about writing is putting down my Rubik’s cube so that I can use my hands to type. That’s usually the worst part of tackling my to-do list: setting aside my Rubik’s cube. My parents call it an obsession. But, for me, solving a Rubik’s cube challenges my brain as nothing else can.

It started on my ninth birthday. I invited three friends for a sleepover party, and I waited to open my presents right before bed. Wrapping paper, ribbons, and bows flew through the air as I oohed and aahed over each delightful gift! However, it was the last gift—a 3 x 3 x 3 cube of little squares covered in red, green, blue, yellow, white, and orange—that intrigued me.

I was horrified when Bekka ripped it out of my hands and messed it all up! I had no idea how to make all the sides match again. I waited until my friends were fast asleep. Then, I grabbed that cube and studied it under my blanket with a flashlight, determined to figure out how to restore it to its former pristine state.

Within a few weeks, I had discovered the secret. To practice, I’d take my cube with me to recess and let the other kids time me while I solved it in front of them. The better I became, the more they gathered around. But I soon realized that their attention didn’t matter all that much. I loved solving cubes for hours wherever I was: at lunch, riding in the car, or alone in my room.

Cross. White corners. Middle-layer edges. Yellow cross. Sune and anitsune.

The sequential algorithms became second nature, and with the assistance of a little black digital timer, I strove to solve the cube faster , each time attempting to beat my previous record. I watched speed solvers on YouTube, like Australia’s Feliks Zemdegs and Max Park from Massachusetts, but I wasn’t motivated to compete as they did. I watched their videos to learn how to improve my time. I liked finding new, more efficient ways of mastering the essential 78 separate cube-solving algorithms.

Now, I understand why my passion for my Rubik’s cube has never waned. Learning and applying the various algorithms soothes my brain and centers my emotions, especially when I feel overwhelmed from being around other people. Don’t get me wrong: I like other people—just in doses.

While some people get recharged by spending time with others, I can finally breathe when I’m alone with my cube. Our psychology teacher says the difference between an extrovert and an introvert is the situations that trigger their brains to produce dopamine. For me, it’s time away, alone, flipping through cube patterns to set a new personal best.

Sometimes, the world doesn’t cooperate with introverts, requiring them to interact with many people throughout the day. That’s why you’ll often find me in the stairwell or a library corner attempting to master another one of the 42 quintillion ways to solve a cube. My parents tease me that when I’ve “had enough” of anything, my fingers get a Rubik’s itch, and I suddenly disappear. I’m usually occupied for a while, but when I finally emerge, I feel centered, prepared to tackle my next task.

Secretly, I credit my cube with helping me earn top marks in AP Calculus, Chemistry, and Physics. It’s also responsible for my interest in computer engineering. It seems I just can’t get enough of those algorithms, which is why I want to study the design and implementation of cybersecurity software—all thanks to my Rubik’s cube.

Just don’t tell my parents! It would ruin all the fun!

Word count: 607

College essay checklist
	The student immediately captures the reader’s attention with an unexpected statement that captures the prompt’s focus on captivation. Her writing clearly illustrates her love for the Rubik’s cube, showing how the cube has helped her emotionally and academically and inspired her choice of major.
	The student uses a conversational tone while inserting elevated language and concepts that surround her field of interest. She also uses the “I” to personalize her experience.
	Through her detailed narrative of her Rubik’s cube hobby, the student demonstrates perseverance, focus, curiosity, and an uncanny ability to solve problems.
	The student shows awareness of her introversion by explaining how the Rubik’s cube helps her emotionally recharge. She also credits her hobby with helping her in her studies and inspiring her intended major.

In this free topic essay, the student uses a montage structure inspired by the TV show Iron Chef America to demonstrate his best leadership moments.

Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you’ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

Iron Chef America: College Essay Edition

The time has come to answer college’s most difficult question: Whose story shows glory?

This is … Iron Chef America: College Essay Edition!

Welcome to Kitchen Stadium! Today we have Chef Brett Lowell. Chef Brett will be put to the test to prove he has what it takes to attend university next fall.

And the secret ingredient is … leadership! He must include leadership in each of his dishes, which will later be evaluated by a panel of admissions judges.

So now, America, with a creative mind and empty paper, I say unto you in the words of my teacher: “Let’s write!”

Appetizer: My first leadership experience

A mountain of mismatched socks, wrinkled jeans, and my dad’s unironed dress shirts sat in front of me. Laundry was just one of many chores that welcomed me home once I returned from my after-school job at Baskin Robbins, a gig I had taken last year to help Dad pay the rent. A few years earlier, I wasn’t prepared to cook dinners, pay utility bills, or pick up and drop off my brothers. I thought those jobs were reserved for parents. However, when my father was working double shifts at the power plant and my mom was living in Tucson with her new husband, Bill, I stepped up and took care of the house and my two younger brothers.

Main course: My best leadership experience

Between waiting for the pasta water to boil and for the next laundry cycle to be finished, I squeezed in solving a few practice precalculus problems to prepare for the following week’s mathletics competition. I liked how the equations always had clear, clean answers, which calmed me among the mounting responsibilities of home life. After leading my team to the Minnesota State Finals for two years in a row, I was voted team captain. Although my home responsibilities often competed with my mathlete duties, I tried to be as productive as possible in my free time. On the bus ride home, I would often tackle 10 to 20 functions or budget the following week’s meals and corresponding grocery list. My junior year was rough, but both my home and my mathlete team needed me.

Dessert: My future leadership hopes

The first thing I ever baked was a chocolate cake in middle school. This was around the time that Mom had just moved out and I was struggling with algebra. Troubles aside, one day my younger brother Simon needed a contribution for his school’s annual bake sale, and the PTA moms wouldn’t accept anything store-bought. So I carefully measured out the teaspoons and cups of various flours, powders, and oils, which resulted in a drooping, too-salty disaster.

Four years later, after a bakery’s worth of confections and many hours of study, I’ve perfected my German chocolate cake and am on my way to mastering Calculus AB. I’ve also thrown out the bitter-tasting parts of my past such as my resentment and anger toward my mom. I still miss having her at home, but whenever I have a baking question or want to update her on my mathlete team’s success, I call her or chat with her over text.

Whether in school or life, I see problems as opportunities, not obstacles, to find a better way to solve them more efficiently. I hope to continue improving my problem-solving skills next fall by majoring in mathematics and statistics.

Time’s up!

We hope you’ve enjoyed this tasting of Chef Lowell’s leadership experiences. Next fall, tune in to see him craft new leadership adventures in college. He’s open to refining his technique and discovering new recipes.

Word count: 612

College essay checklist
	The student uses a popular TV cooking show as an unexpected concept to display his leadership abilities. Since the prompt is open-ended, the student has more room to craft his response.
	The essay juxtaposes the contrived nature of a TV show’s script with a conversational narrative of the student’s leadership stories.
	Each story effectively showcases the student’s leadership by showing, not telling. Rather than saying “I’m a great leader,” he provides specific instances of his best moments of demonstrated leadership.
	The student honestly shares his reservations about his mother’s new life but shows how he was able to reconcile aspects of their relationship as time passed.

If you want to know more about academic writing , effective communication , or parts of speech , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

Academic writing

Writing process
Transition words
Passive voice
Paraphrasing

Communication

How to end an email
Ms, mrs, miss
How to start an email
I hope this email finds you well
Hope you are doing well

Parts of speech

Personal pronouns
Conjunctions

The Common App essay is your primary writing sample within the Common Application, a college application portal accepted by more than 900 schools. All your prospective schools that accept the Common App will read this essay to understand your character, background, and value as a potential student.

Since this essay is read by many colleges, avoid mentioning any college names or programs; instead, save tailored answers for the supplementary school-specific essays within the Common App.

When writing your Common App essay , choose a prompt that sparks your interest and that you can connect to a unique personal story.

No matter which prompt you choose, admissions officers are more interested in your ability to demonstrate personal development , insight, or motivation for a certain area of study.

To decide on a good college essay topic , spend time thoughtfully answering brainstorming questions. If you still have trouble identifying topics, try the following two strategies:

Identify your qualities → Brainstorm stories that demonstrate these qualities
Identify memorable stories → Connect your qualities to these stories

You can also ask family, friends, or mentors to help you brainstorm topics, give feedback on your potential essay topics, or recall key stories that showcase your qualities.

A standout college essay has several key ingredients:

A unique, personally meaningful topic
A memorable introduction with vivid imagery or an intriguing hook
Specific stories and language that show instead of telling
Vulnerability that’s authentic but not aimed at soliciting sympathy
Clear writing in an appropriate style and tone
A conclusion that offers deep insight or a creative ending

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How to Write a Commentary That Engages and Persuades [GUIDE]

Feeling behind on AI?

Crafting a compelling commentary isn't just about offering an opinion. It's about weaving your insights into a narrative that engages and persuades your audience. Whether you're dissecting a piece of literature, analyzing a political event, or exploring societal trends, the key to writing effective commentary lies in not only what you say but how you say it.

You'll need to balance fact with personal perspective, all while maintaining clarity and depth. This might sound daunting, but don’t worry—once you grasp the basic structure and essential components of good commentary writing, you’ll find it both rewarding and impactful. Let’s dive into how you can master this artful form of expression, ensuring your voice is heard loud and clear.

Understanding the Basics of a Commentary

Understanding the basics of a commentary involves grasping its definition and recognizing the different types it can take. This foundation aids in crafting insightful narratives that effectively communicate your perspectives.

What Is a Commentary?

A commentary is an analytical or interpretive piece of writing where you express your thoughts on a subject. It combines objective facts with subjective analysis to provide deeper insights into the topic at hand. This form of writing often reviews or critiques events, literature, or policies and extends beyond mere description to influence or engage readers.

Types of Commentary

There are several distinct types of commentary, each serving unique purposes:

Literary Commentary: Focuses on analyzing texts such as books, poems, films, and other artworks. Literary commentaries discuss themes, characters, and plot developments.
Social Commentary: Examines societal issues like politics, culture, economics, and human rights. Writers use this format to critique social norms and advocate for changes.
Historical Commentary: Explores historical events or periods providing context and interpretation that help understand past occurrences' relevance today.

By identifying which type suits your needs best; you set the stage for engaging with your audience more effectively.

Preparing to Write a Commentary

Transitioning from understanding the different types of commentary, focus now shifts towards effectively preparing to write one. This stage is crucial for aligning your thoughts and research with the commentary’s objectives.

Choosing a Subject

Identify a subject that resonates both personally and intellectually. Ensure it offers enough depth for analysis and fits within one of the discussed categories: literary, social, or historical. For instance, selecting a novel for literary commentary allows exploration of themes, character development, and author's intent. Opt for subjects that not only interest you but also have substantial information available.

Analyzing the Material

Begin by thoroughly reading or examining your chosen material. Take detailed notes on aspects that stand out as significant or intriguing—these will form the backbone of your commentary. Look for patterns or contradictions in data (texts, behaviors, historical accounts) that could enrich your interpretation. This step involves critical thinking to distill complex information into coherent insights.

Researching Your Topic

Conduct extensive research to support your views and provide credibility to your narrative. Utilize credible sources such as academic journals, books by respected authors, and trusted online resources. Gather diverse perspectives on the topic to ensure a well-rounded argument. Document all sources accurately; this not only aids in maintaining ethical standards but also strengthens your commentary’s reliability.

Structuring Your Commentary

After selecting your topic and gathering the necessary information, structure becomes crucial in crafting an effective commentary. This stage allows you to organize thoughts cohesively, ensuring your argument flows logically from one point to another.

Crafting a Thesis Statement

Begin by formulating a strong thesis statement. This single sentence serves as the foundation of your commentary, summarizing your central argument or perspective. Ensure it is clear and assertive. A well-crafted thesis statement sets the tone for the entire piece, guiding readers through your thoughts on the chosen subject matter.

For example, if writing about climate change's impact on urban planning, an effective thesis might be: "Urban planners must integrate sustainable practices to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change."

Outline the Main Points

Next, outline all major points that will support your thesis statement throughout the commentary. Each main point should directly relate back to reinforcing or debating aspects of your thesis based on evidence collected during research.

By outlining these points methodically, you ensure comprehensive coverage of arguments while maintaining reader interest from start to finish—essential for persuasive communication within any type of commentary whether literary, social, or historical analysis.

Writing the Commentary

Crafting a commentary involves articulating your insights on a subject while engaging readers with persuasive and coherent arguments. This section builds directly upon the foundation of selecting topics and structuring preliminary outlines.

Writing an Introduction

Begin your commentary with an introduction that captivates attention and presents your thesis statement. Establish the context briefly, setting up the premise for deeper exploration in subsequent sections. The introduction should:

Hook readers with a compelling fact or question that relates to the core topic.
Present the thesis statement clearly; this acts as your central argument.
Outline what will be discussed, providing a roadmap of your commentary’s structure.

Developing Body Paragraphs

The body paragraphs are where you delve into detailed analysis supported by evidence. Each paragraph should focus on a single main idea that supports the thesis, structured as follows:

Introduce each point with a topic sentence that links back to your thesis.
Provide examples, statistics (if applicable), or quotes from credible sources to substantiate your points.
Explain how these details connect to your overall argument.

Ensure transitions between paragraphs are smooth, maintaining flow and reinforcing the logical progression of ideas.

Providing Context and Analysis

Amplify your commentary by integrating thorough context and in-depth analysis:

Discuss contrasting viewpoints if they help clarify or deepen understanding of your perspective.

Analyze implications or potential outcomes stemming from the issues at hand.

This depth not only enriches comprehension but also showcases your analytical acumen.

Concluding Your Commentary

End with a strong conclusion that reiterates your thesis and underscores key points discussed:

Reflect on broader implications or suggest further areas for research or discussion based on what was presented.

Leave readers contemplating critical aspects of the commentary which may influence their perspectives on the topic.

This structured approach ensures each part contributes effectively towards delivering persuasive, insightful commentary that resonates with audiences across contexts like literary criticism, social commentaries, or historical analyses.

Enhancing Your Commentary

To elevate your commentary, focus on the strategic use of evidence and incorporation of personal insights. This approach ensures your piece not only informs but also resonates with your audience.

Using Evidence Effectively

Optimal use of evidence transforms good commentary into a compelling argument. Begin by selecting evidence that directly supports your thesis statement. Examples include statistical data, quotes from recognized experts, and historical events relevant to your topic. Align each piece of evidence clearly with your main points; this will enhance the credibility and persuasive power of your commentary.

Select Reputable Sources : Choose sources recognized for their authority in the field. For instance, academic journals, authoritative news outlets, and books by respected authors offer reliable information.
Cite Specific Examples : When discussing complex issues like social changes or economic policies, cite specific instances where similar situations have occurred.
Explain Evidence Context : Don't just present facts; explain why they are relevant to your argument. This interpretation helps readers understand the significance within the broader discussion.

Incorporating Personal Insights

Personal insights give voice to your commentary, making it unique and engaging. Reflect on how the topic impacts you personally or how it relates to experiences you've observed. These personal reflections should connect back to the larger narrative or argument you're constructing.

Relate To Broader Themes : Connect your personal story or observation to wider societal implications if applicable.
Showcase Unique Perspectives : Share viewpoints that might not be widely discussed but are informed by personal experience or niche expertise.
Maintain Professional Tone : While sharing personal insights, balance them with a professional tone to maintain credibility and respectfulness towards differing views.

By integrating substantial evidence with genuine personal insights, you ensure that your commentary is both authoritative and distinctly yours. This combination engages readers effectively while supporting robust discourse on the subject matter at hand.

Revising and Editing Your Commentary

Once your initial draft is complete, revising and editing become critical steps to refine your commentary into a polished piece. This phase allows you to enhance clarity, coherence, and the overall impact of your writing.

Self-Review Techniques

Start the self-review process by re-reading your commentary aloud. This strategy helps identify awkward phrasing or unclear ideas that might not be as obvious when reading silently. Focus on ensuring that each paragraph transitions smoothly into the next, maintaining a logical flow that supports your thesis statement effectively.

Create a checklist based on key elements such as:

Thesis consistency: Verify if all sections support or reflect back on your thesis.
Evidence relevance: Check whether the evidence presented effectively backs up your points.
Personal insight integration: Ensure personal reflections contribute meaningfully to the discussion.

Utilize tools like grammar checkers or readability software to detect any grammatical errors and assess sentence structure complexity. Aim for clear, concise sentences that convey information efficiently.

Seeking Feedback

After conducting a thorough self-review, seek feedback from peers or mentors who understand the topic well. Provide them with specific questions about aspects you feel uncertain about to guide their review towards providing constructive insights:

Examples of targeted questions include:

Does my argument come across clearly and persuasively?
Are there any points where my bias may appear unbalanced?
How effective are my introductions and conclusions in each section?

Encourage honest feedback focusing on both strengths and areas for improvement. Analyze received critiques carefully; implementing changes based on this feedback can dramatically enhance the quality of your final submission.

By following these detailed steps under Revising and Editing Your Commentary, you ensure every aspect of your work holds up under scrutiny while presenting a compelling narrative enriched with factual precision and personal authenticity.

Writing a Commentary with ChatGPT

ChatGPT can assist you in crafting a compelling commentary by providing guidance on structure, evidence integration, and personal insight articulation.

Help me write a commentary on [specific subject or event]. I need to develop a strong thesis statement that encapsulates my main argument. The commentary should include an engaging introduction, detailed body paragraphs that support the thesis with credible evidence and personal insights, and a conclusion that synthesizes key points and suggests further research or actions. Ensure the tone is [formal/informal] and the commentary is both persuasive and informative.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Transitioning from the earlier focus on revision techniques and clarity enhancement, this section tackles some common hurdles you might face when crafting a commentary. Overcome these challenges to maintain the quality and effectiveness of your work.

Addressing Writer's Block

Encounter writer’s block often manifests as a frustrating barrier to progress in your writing journey. Break through this impediment by engaging in structured brainstorming sessions, where you outline disparate ideas without judging their viability. Set aside time for free writing exercises daily; spend 15 minutes writing about anything that comes to mind, related or not to your topic. This practice stimulates creativity and can unearth new insights or angles for your commentary.

Utilize mind mapping tools which visually organize thoughts and connections between them. Starting with a central idea—your proposed thesis—branch out into main points and supporting evidence, allowing a visual flow of ideas that could break the blockage.

If practicality permits, step away from your workspace for short periods. Physical activities such as walking or yoga refresh the mind, making it easier to return with a renewed perspective.

Handling Overwhelming Evidence

When confronted with an abundance of evidence, streamline the integration process by prioritizing relevance over quantity. Start by identifying three to five key pieces of evidence that most strongly support your thesis statement. Create an evidence hierarchy; categorize each piece by its impact level on advancing your argument.

Construct concise summaries for each chosen item of evidence. These summaries should encapsulate why each piece is relevant and how it supports your viewpoint compellingly yet succinctly.

Implement color-coding in your notes or digital documents: one color for critical evidence, another for supplementary details, and another for general background information. This method aids in quickly distinguishing between what is essential for inclusion and what can serve merely as additional context if needed.

By addressing these common issues directly, you enhance both the efficiency of your writing process and the coherence of your final commentary output.

Craft a compelling closure by synthesizing insights and emphasizing key takeaways. Ensure your commentary leaves an impact by reiterating the core messages and demonstrating their relevance in a broader context. Summarize major points succinctly, linking back to the facts and personal views discussed earlier.

Restate the Thesis: Revisit your thesis statement and reflect on how the supporting arguments have solidified this central idea.
Highlight Major Insights: Outline critical insights gained through your analysis; for example, shifts in public opinion or implications for future research.
Suggest Further Research or Action: Recommend areas for further exploration or steps readers could take to engage with the topic more deeply.

This structured approach ensures that your final words resonate well, providing a clear, authoritative conclusion to your commentary.

Additional Resources

Crafting an impactful commentary isn't just about putting words on paper—it's about making those words work hard to engage and persuade. You've learned how to blend factual analysis with personal insight effectively and now understand the importance of revising your piece to enhance its clarity and impact. With these tools at your disposal you're well-equipped to tackle any topic that sparks your interest or ignites your passion.

Remember writing is a journey: each commentary piece offers a unique opportunity to refine your voice and argue your perspective. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different approaches or seek feedback as you hone your skills. The more you write the better you’ll become at delivering compelling arguments that not only inform but also resonate with readers.

Embrace the challenge ahead—your next commentary could be the one that truly makes a difference!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key elements of effective commentary writing.

Effective commentary writing involves blending factual information with personal perspectives, crafting a strong thesis, structuring arguments logically, and integrating context and analysis. It also includes revising for consistency and clarity, utilizing feedback, and employing various techniques to overcome common issues like writer's block.

How should one select topics for commentary writing?

Choosing topics for commentary should be based on areas that are not only of interest to you but also relevant to your audience. It’s important to select subjects where you can provide unique insights or perspectives that contribute meaningfully to existing discussions.

What strategies help in overcoming writer's block during commentary writing?

Overcoming writer's block can be managed through structured brainstorming sessions and free-writing exercises. These methods encourage the flow of ideas without self-censorship, helping writers break through creative barriers.

How can editing tools improve the quality of my commentary?

Editing tools such as grammar checkers help ensure language accuracy. Additionally, seeking feedback from peers or mentors and using targeted questions can significantly enhance clarity and coherence in your work by providing external perspectives on logical flow and argument strength.

What is an effective way to conclude a piece of commentary?

An effective conclusion synthesizes the main insights discussed, restates the thesis in light of these insights, highlights significant points made throughout the text, and suggests further research or actions. This approach ensures a clear closure that reinforces your arguments while leaving a lasting impact on readers.

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Int J Qual Stud Health Well-being

Guidelines for writing a commentary

A commentary is a comment on a newly published article. A commentary may be invited by the chief editor or spontaneously submitted. Commentaries in International Journal of Qualitative Studies on Health and Well-being are peer reviewed. We now welcome commentaries!

What is a commentary?

The goal of publishing commentaries is to advance the research field by providing a forum for varying perspectives on a certain topic under consideration in the journal. The author of a commentary probably has in-depth knowledge of the topic and is eager to present a new and/or unique viewpoint on existing problems, fundamental concepts, or prevalent notions, or wants to discuss the implications of a newly implemented innovation. A commentary may also draw attention to current advances and speculate on future directions of a certain topic, and may include original data as well as state a personal opinion. While a commentary may be critical of an article published in the journal, it is important to maintain a respectful tone that is critical of ideas or conclusions but not of authors.

In summary, a commentary may be:

A critical challenge to one or more aspects of the focal article, arguing for a position other than that taken in the focal article.
An elaboration or extension of the position taken in the focal article, basically sympathetic to the position taken in the focal article but pushing the argument further.
An application of a theoretical or methodological perspective that sheds light on the issues addressed in the focal article.
A reflection on the writer's experiences in applying the issues addressed in the focal article, in particular health and well-being settings.
A comment on the applicability of the issues raised in the focal article to other settings, or to other cultures.

How to write a commentary

Commentaries in International Journal of Qualitative Studies on Health and Well-being should not exceed 10 manuscript pages. A tightly argued four- to six-page commentary is likely to be better received than a meandering 10-page ditto. Use these simple guidelines:

Do not summarize the focal article; just give the reference. Assume the reader has just read it. Move directly to identifying the key issues you want to raise.
Do not include general praise for the focal article.
Use only essential citations. For commentary purposes, cite only works absolutely essential to support your point.
Use a short title that emphasizes your key message. (It should be clear in context that all commentaries are a reaction to a particular paper).
Do not include an abstract.
Make clear your take-home message.
Make sure there is full author information (name, affiliation, address, phone, email) for all authors. Authors must be individuals.

Review process

Commentaries will be peer reviewed and most likely accepted if they are in line with the definitions and guidelines outlined. A small set of reviewers will read and evaluate all commentaries as they need to compare commentaries for issues of redundancy and to make evaluations of relative merit.

Queries for the editor

Authors should feel free to correspond with the chief editor prior to submitting a commentary if there are questions about any aspect of the evaluation and publication process. Authors may prepare a brief outline of the key points they desire to present in the commentary and send it to the chief editor.

Does it cost anything to submit a commentary?

Spontaneously submitted commentaries incur a cost of €65 per typeset page. The author will be invoiced once the commentary has been accepted for publication.

We hope you will send us a commentary whenever you think there is a need to broaden the perspectives on health and well-being presented in our journal.

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Education and Communications
Studying Literature

How to Write a Literary Commentary

Last Updated: February 23, 2023 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Stephanie Wong Ken, MFA . Stephanie Wong Ken is a writer based in Canada. Stephanie's writing has appeared in Joyland, Catapult, Pithead Chapel, Cosmonaut's Avenue, and other publications. She holds an MFA in Fiction and Creative Writing from Portland State University. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 707,949 times.

A literary commentary is a detailed analysis of a passage of text, focusing specifically on the text itself. It should not be confused with a literary analysis essay, as it does not need a thesis statement or a general discussion of the book as a whole. Instead, the literary commentary should only analyze and reflect on a specific passage. To write a literary commentary, start by reading the text and creating an outline. Then, dive right into a detailed discussion of the text. Make sure you polish the literary commentary for style, grammar, and spelling before handing it in so it is at its best.

Literary Commentary Help

Starting the Literary Commentary

Make sure you have a hard copy of the passage so you can mark it up as you read it. Jot down any initial thoughts or questions you may have about the text as you read it several times.

You should also look for words that are repeated in the text, as this means they are likely important. Notice if the same word is used in a different context in the passage and highlight each mention of the word.

Introduction section: Identify the text
Body section: Discuss the main features of the text
Conclusion section: Summarize your thoughts on the text

Writing the Literary Commentary

Step 1 Identify the title, author, and genre in the introduction.

For example, you may note, “Published in 1966, Seamus Heaney’s ‘Blackberry-Picking’ is a poem that appears in his poetry collection, Death of a Naturalist .”
If the text is from a larger work, do not write about the overall plot of the larger work. You should also not include details from the author’s biography or the historical period when the text was written, unless it feels relevant to the passage.

Step 2 Discuss the text’s subject, themes, and audience.

For example, in Seamus Heaney's poem, "Blackberry-Picking,” the subject is two people picking a large quantity of blackberries. [2] X Research source
The themes of the poem could be nature, hunger, and decay or rot.
The poem begins with a dedication to “Philip Hobsbaum,” which means he could be the intended audience of the poem, the “you” addressed in the poem.

Step 3 Look at the genre, form, and structure of the text.

The genre and form of the text will also help you determine the structure of the text. For example, Seamus Heaney's "Blackberry-Picking” takes the form of a poem and fits in the genre of poetry. It uses a familiar poetic structure, such as short lines of text and is broken into two stanzas.

For example, in Seamus Heaney's "Blackberry-Picking,” the speaker uses the first person voice. The speaker then addresses a “you” in the text, indicating there are two characters in the poem.

For example, in Seamus Heaney's "Blackberry-Picking,” the tone in the first stanza is nostalgic and light. The tone then shifts in the second stanza to be more serious and dark.

Step 6 Identify the literary devices in the text.

For example, if you are discussing Seamus Heaney's "Blackberry-Picking,” you may look at a simile like “You ate that first one and its flesh was sweet/Like thickened wine: summer's blood was in it.” Or you may discuss imagery like “a rat-grey fungus” or “fruit fermented.”
You can find a complete list of literary devices in literature online. [5] X Research source

For example, if you are discussing themes of decay in Seamus Heaney's "Blackberry-Picking,” you may quote a line like “I always felt like crying./It wasn't fair/That all the lovely canfuls smelt of rot.”

Step 8 Wrap up the commentary with a summary of your thoughts.

For example, you may end your literary commentary on Seamus Heaney's "Blackberry-Picking” by noting how the poem fits into the poetry collection and reflects common themes in Heaney’s work.

Polishing the Literary Commentary

Step 1 Read the commentary aloud to yourself.

You can also read the commentary aloud to someone else to get their feedback. Ask a peer, a friend, or a family member to listen to you read the commentary and then ask for their feedback.

Step 2 Confirm the commentary follows a clear outline.

You can go through the commentary and write down “introduction” or “discussion of text” next to the relevant paragraphs in the commentary. Doing this will ensure you cover all the necessary information in the commentary.

Step 3 Review the commentary for spelling, grammar, and punctuation.

If you are using a computer to write the literary commentary, you can use the spellcheck option in the computer program. However, you should not rely on spellcheck only to go through your work. Make sure you also do a close review of the commentary for any errors before you hand it in.

Community Q&A

↑ https://warwick.ac.uk/fac/arts/modernlanguages/intranet/undergraduate/skills/commesswriting/commentarywriting/
↑ https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/50981/blackberry-picking
↑ http://literary-devices.com/
↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/reading-aloud/
↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/editing-and-proofreading/

About This Article

To write a literary commentary, begin by closely reading the text at least twice while paying attention to the content and structure. While commentaries do not need a thesis statement, you should identify the title, author, and genre in your introduction. In your body paragraphs, discuss the text’s subject, themes, and audience while pointing out any literary devices, like metaphors or symbols, that you notice. Use quotes to illustrate your points and conclude with a summary of your thoughts on the text. For advice about how to read and annotate your text from our Writer reviewer, scroll down. Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Writing a commentary- Process and Example
Commentary Essay ⇒ Writing Guide with Analysis Examples
Five Ways to Target Commentary for Essay Writing
How to Write a Literary Commentary: 14 Steps (with Pictures)
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COMMENTS

From Summary to Insight: A Guide to Writing Commentary Essays with Depth
The Significance Of Commentary In Essay Writing Writing commentary in an essay can be a powerful tool for communicating ideas and arguments. It is essential to engage in critical thinking, interpretation, and analysis when writing commentary.
Commentary Essay ⇒ Writing Guide with Analysis Examples
Learn more about commentary essays as separate assignments and commentaries in essays as evidence analysis with our guide and examples in it.
How to Write a Commentary Essay: Example, Tips, and ...
A commentary essay should have a clear structure: an introduction with a strong thesis, body paragraphs with supporting evidence, and a conclusion that reinforces your main points.
3 Ways to Write a Commentary
At some point in your life, you'll probably have to write a commentary. Whether you're a teacher, editor, student, or amateur critic, knowing how to constructively analyze someone's work is a useful skill. There isn't a magical formula for...
What Is a Commentary in an Essay
A commentary essay is a piece of writing where an author analyzes and interprets a specific topic, often a text or event, providing personal insights. Basically, such a paper follows a structured writing format, typically with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
How to Write a Commentary Essay: Tips and Examples
A commentary essay requires you to analyze a text critically, offering your perspective in a structured and detailed manner. This blog will guide you through understanding what a commentary essay is, exploring its types, and providing steps and tips to write one effectively, including examples and essential do's and don'ts.
Writing a Literary Commentary: Guidelines
What is a commentary? First and foremost, a literary commentary is NOT an essay. The passage in front of you is not, therefore, an invitation to write a general essay about the work from which it has been taken. A commentary is an analysis of the given passage, its function and its characteristics.
Five Ways to Target Commentary for Essay Writing
The commentary part of any essay is always the most difficult. It is the part of the essay in which the writer analyzes evidence, and this analysis speaks to the writer's own unique voice. While we have standard, formulaic ways to teach other parts of the essay such as thesis statements, blending quotes, topics sentences, etc., commentary is different. There really isn't a formula for ...
Tips, Tricks, and Step-by-Step Guide for Commentary Essay
The commentary essay structure follows the standard formula of the introduction that includes your thesis statement, main body paragraphs, and a conclusion paragraph.
Guidelines for Writing a Perfect Commentary Essay
What Is Commentary in an Essay? Commentary in an essay refers to the writer's analysis, interpretation, and explanation of the evidence presented. It connects the evidence to the main argument or thesis and helps the reader understand the significance of the information. Commentary goes beyond summarizing facts; it provides insight, clarifies the writer's perspective, and explains how the ...
Commentary Essay Example, Writing Guide, and Tips
Literary Commentary and Data Commentary It should be noted that there are two types of commentary essays: literary and data. Literary commentary is an in-depth analysis of a passage of a literary work or text. Whereas data commentary is a piece of writing that comments on a visual display. Its main purpose is the interpretation of a research paper.
Elements of an Essay: Writing Commentary
For several weeks now, we have been identifying the essential elements of essays and learning how to incorporate these effectively and successfully. We have discussed that the thesis statement is t…
Commentary
Commentary refers to the analysis and interpretation of specific textual evidence in a literary analysis essay. It involves providing insightful explanations, observations, and opinions about the significance and meaning of the evidence.
How to Write a Good Essay: Stop Summarizing, Start Commentating
Chances are your professor has given you an assignment to write an essay that reflects on a piece of literature, or another body of work like a film or play. Do you know how to write a good essay? One basic way to elevate the quality of your next essay is to stop summarizing and start commentating.
The Role of Commentary in Rhetorical Analysis
Analysis—what we're calling commentary—is the student's opinion about the way evidence proves the truth of a topic sentence, which defends the truth of the controlling thesis statement. Here's how the connecting works. A rhetorical analysis essay has a thesis, which is a controlling idea. All ideas within the essay defend this one.
How to Write a Commentary Commentary Writing in an Essay
Writing a literary commentary means making a detailed analysis of a new article or a text. Since it is not a thesis, it doesn't need a general discussion on the topic and a statement. But still, you have to prepare before you start writing it like you would have to before writing an essay. Note that it's not similar to an essay and is different in many aspects.
Common App Essays
Here are seven examples of strong Common App essays with commentary to help you write your own college essay.
How to Write a Commentary That Engages and Persuades [GUIDE]
Crafting a compelling commentary isn't just about offering an opinion. It's about weaving your insights into a narrative that engages and persuades your audience. Whether you're dissecting a piece of literature, analyzing a political event, or exploring societal trends, the key to writing effective commentary lies in not only what you say but how you say it.
Guidelines for writing a commentary
For commentary purposes, cite only works absolutely essential to support your point. Use a short title that emphasizes your key message. (It should be clear in context that all commentaries are a reaction to a particular paper). Do not include an abstract. Make clear your take-home message.
How to Write a Literary Commentary: 14 Steps (with Pictures)
A literary commentary is a detailed analysis of a passage of text, focusing specifically on the text itself. It should not be confused with a literary analysis essay, as it does not need a thesis statement or a general discussion of the book as a whole. Instead, the literary commentary should only analyze and reflect on a specific passage. To write a literary commentary, start by reading the ...
Teaching Students How to Write Commentary for the Literary Analysis Essay
Writing commentary is undoubtedly the most difficult part of writing any essay. All other parts of the essay are more formulaic in nature. But when it comes to commenting on evidence, there is no formula. This blog post explores strategies for teaching students how to write commentary for the literary analysis essay.
How to write a commentary—an editor's perspective
Begin at the beginning, the middle, or the conclusion of your commentary. Just start writing. Put sentences with meaningful links alongside each other. If you have an overall view of the study that you can describe in a single sentence, you may have the conclusion of your commentary at hand.
PDF Microsoft Word
The purpose of commentary is not simply to report things but to give readers a way to make sense of them. A commentary will help you write critically about a topic and will help you analyze this topic within a larger societal context.1. Following the models of well-known American authors John Steinbeck, Joan Didion, James Baldwin, and the other ...

From Summary to Insight: A Guide to Writing Commentary Essays with Depth

What Is Commentary In An Essay?

The Significance Of Commentary In Essay Writing

Key Elements Of Effective Commentary

Strategies For Writing Potent Commentary In Essays

Develop a strong thesis statement

Understand the topic better

Body And Paragraphs Organized

Use literary analysis

The Use Of Quotations And Examples In Commentary

Types Of Commentary In Essays: Comprehending The Contrasts

Strategies For Writing Commentary In Literary Essays

Writing Commentary For Convincing Essays

Creating Commentary That Supports Your Thesis Statement

Common Mistakes To Avoid In Commentary Writing

Avoiding Overgeneralization

Lack Of Evidence

Tips For Revising And Editing Commentary

Examples Of Strong And Poor Commentary In Essays

Paragraph Construction With Commentary

Transition Words And Phrases For Commentary

Writing A Conclusion With Commentary: Do’s And Don’ts

Recommended Reading...

Commentary Essay Guide

What Is a Commentary Essay? (As a Separate Paper)

Audience and Genre

Language and Style

Literary Commentary Writing and Analysis

“This Shows That” Approach

“LET” Approach

What Are Commentaries in an Essay?

Opinion Type

Interpretation Type

Character’s or Subject’s Feelings

Personal Reaction

Assessment

Data Commentary

Data Commentary Example (image)

Key Takeaways and Tips

Was this article helpful?

How to Write a Commentary Essay: Example, Tips, and Techniques for Success

Understanding Commentary Essays

What Is a Commentary Essay?

Crafting a Successful Commentary Essay

Selecting the Right Topic

Structuring Your Essay

Analyzing Commentary Essay Examples

Example Analysis: Technique and Style

Example Analysis: Argument Development

Writing Tips for Commentary Essays

Developing a Strong Thesis

Incorporating Effective Evidence

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose a topic for a commentary essay?

What is the importance of a thesis statement in a commentary essay?

How should I structure my commentary essay?

What techniques can I use to enhance my commentary essay?

Why is it beneficial to examine commentary essay examples?

How can I incorporate evidence effectively in my essay?

What should I include in the conclusion of my commentary essay?

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Commentary Essay: Student Guidelines & Examples

General Aspects

What Is a Commentary Essay and Its Purpose

Defining Features

Basic Structure

5 Main Types

Alternative Forms and Examples

Possible Uses of Block Quotations

Examples of Commentary Essay Topics

Outline and Template

Commentary Essay Example

How to Write a Commentary Essay

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Common Mistakes

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