Explain your evidence
Do not leave the quote to do all the work. Tell your reader what you noticed.
Three different jobs
“I draw because words are too unpredictable.” (Alexie 5)
Junior says words do not always communicate what he wants.
Drawing gives him another way to be understood, so art can help him handle feeling unheard.
Academic explanation
Explanation makes the meaning clear. Analysis connects that meaning to your claim.
Elaboration
A useful analysis names a specific relationship. It might explain why a character makes a choice, how two events form a pattern, or what changed between two moments. “This is important” is only a start. Say what it helps us understand and why.
Use the right amount of certainty
Junior transfers to Reardan.
Junior’s decision suggests that hope can require risking a friendship.
Words such as suggests, may, and seems help you make room for interpretation. They do not replace evidence.