The 3 things you shouldn't forget when analysing language

Analysing the way someone uses language and then writing your own essay about it is kind of a strange thing. Not only do you have to work out what the author is saying and why, but you then need to turn your discussion into a cohesive, well structured essay. Simple right? Most people don't think so.
It is hard to know where to start.

Here are the three things l believe you should focus on in every language analysis essay. Include these 3 things in equal measure and you can't go wrong.

1. What is the author saying?  Identity the key messages in the piece of writing you are analysing. Each of these key messages might form the focus of your paragraphs ie: discuss one of the author's main messages per paragraph.

2. How are they saying it? What evidence and language is the author using to make their point? This becomes the bulk of your discussion in the body of your paragraphs. Here you are discussing the language devices they are using to make their point.

3. Why are they saying what they are saying in this way? This is one of the most important parts of your essay and it is the bit that most people forget. You need to discuss here what the author's intended effect is. Why have they chosen to say what they said in the way that they said it? Why have they chosen paricular words, phrases or evidence? What are they trying to find or imply? How are they trying to influence the reader?

Covering all 3 of the What How Why in your essay will ensure your language analysis essay is thorough and focuses on the right elements. There is no point writing a list of persuasive techniques the author uses because the important thing is to discuss how he/she uses them and why.