2. Evaluation essays set out to create criteria and
then judge or evaluate the subject based on
these criteria. Writing an evaluation essay
requires the writer to fully analyze both sides
and determine an arguable judgment. Writers
must fully explore the subject and then provide
views and evidence to support that judgment.
3. • Step 1
Find something to evaluate. Brainstorm possible
topics to evaluate by making a list. For example,
you might make a list of movies, films, books or
policies to evaluate. Decide on a topic and then
further your brainstorming with an expanded list
of details about the topic.
4. • Step 2
Draft a thesis statement. The thesis details the
overall purpose of the evaluation essay and sets
up the angle for your judgment. In evaluation
essays, the thesis should argue the value or lack
of value of your particular topic based on the
criteria you will later establish.
5. • Step 3
Define your subject. Provide background
information about your topic or subject before
you begin evaluating. For example, when
evaluating a book, provide a brief summary of
the plot and its characters to set up the context
of the evaluation for the reader.
6. • Step 4
Choose the appropriate criteria. In order to
evaluate a topic or attempt to pass judgment,
writers need to detail criteria in which the topic
will be evaluated. For example, if you are
evaluating a movie, the criteria might be
cinematography, plot, action, realistic characters
or visual effects.
7. • Step 5
Critique the criteria. When drafting evaluation
essays, the body of your essay should address
the effectiveness or ineffective qualities of each
set of criteria. Provide examples to support your
judgment of each criteria and argue in
accordance with your thesis.
8. • Tip
Make sure that your writing is balanced and
evaluates all the criteria thoroughly. Stand your
ground throughout the evaluation so that your
claim is convincing and persuasive.
• Warning
Avoid evaluating topics that are broad or overused.
Narrow down the topic so that your claim is strong
and well-supported with examples.
