Writing for the Reader Making sense

Moving from description to interpretation Start with a thorough analysis Use a method from WA and/or An elements of reasoning analysis from Nosich Describe carefully Question if words used are best Try to use precise words to describe Leads to reduced wordiness and Greater clarity

Interpretation stems from analysis Organize data to attain full understanding Ask “so what?” Select a context or a lens through which you make your interpretations (e.g., historical, feminist, Marxist, religious, etc.) Consider possible alternative readings/lenses Select the interpretation that explains the most and is most interesting

Reasoning’s role Starts with sufficient evidence/research Evidence must be apparent to any reasonable person Must insure your reasoning is sound Must accept that other possibilities exist Everything can be interpreted because Everything communicates whether the item is meant to or not

Moving to a conclusion Make the implicit explicit Maintain a contextual lens throughout Write what a piece seems to communicate beyond the obvious message Consider what the author(s)’ intentions seem to be