How do you use feedback to improve your analytical writing?

1 Seek feedback

The first step to use feedback to improve your analytical writing is to seek it actively and strategically. You should not wait until the last minute to ask for feedback, but rather plan ahead and identify the best sources and methods for getting it. For example, you can ask your peers, mentors, or instructors to review your draft and give you constructive comments. You can also use online tools, such as grammar checkers, plagiarism detectors, or readability analyzers, to get automated feedback on your writing quality. You should specify what kind of feedback you are looking for, such as content, logic, organization, or style, and ask for specific and actionable suggestions.

2 Receive feedback

The second step to use feedback to improve your analytical writing is to receive it with an open mind and a positive attitude. You should not take feedback personally or defensively, but rather appreciate it as an opportunity to learn and grow. You should also not accept feedback blindly or uncritically, but rather listen carefully and ask for clarification or examples if needed. You should thank the feedback giver for their time and effort, and acknowledge their strengths and perspectives.

3 Evaluate feedback

The third step to use feedback to improve your analytical writing is to evaluate it critically and objectively. You should not ignore or dismiss feedback that contradicts your own views or preferences, but rather consider it carefully and weigh its merits and limitations. You should also not follow or apply feedback that is vague, irrelevant, or inaccurate, but rather seek more information or evidence to support or refute it. You should compare and contrast different sources and types of feedback, and look for patterns, themes, or gaps in your writing.

4 Apply feedback

The fourth and final step to use feedback to improve your analytical writing is to apply it effectively and efficiently. You should not make changes randomly or superficially, but rather prioritize and organize them according to their importance and impact. You should also not make changes without understanding or explaining them, but rather justify and document them with clear reasoning and evidence. You should revise and edit your writing based on the feedback, and check for consistency, coherence, and clarity. You should also seek more feedback on your revised draft, and repeat the process until you are satisfied with your writing.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?