Guide to Critical Writing

A Brief Guide to Critical Writing

by Valerie Ross

A publication of the Critical Writing Program The University of Pennsylvania 3808 Walnut Street Philadelphia PA 19104-6221 © 2013 by Valerie Ross All rights reserved.

Contents

The Critical Writing Seminars: Overview and Statement of Goals........................ 2 What to Expect: The Writing Process......................................................................5 Style and Grammar ..................................................................................................9 Reasoning...............................................................................................................17 Propositions: Introduction......................................................................................22 Analysis and Synthesis ..........................................................................................24 Justificatory Reasoning..........................................................................................31 Introductions ..........................................................................................................34 Reasons Versus Evidence ......................................................................................41 Counterargument....................................................................................................43 Prewriting...............................................................................................................46 Arrangement ..........................................................................................................48 Endings ..................................................................................................................54 Timed Essay Tips...................................................................................................59 The Cover Letter...