How should you approach a prompt that requires both analysis and opinion?

• A. Start with opinion, then analysis.
• B. Analyze first, then present position.
• C. Ignore analysis and write opinion only.
• D. Use irrelevant facts.

Answer: (B)

When a prompt asks for both analysis and opinion, the key is to build a solid, evidence-based foundation before you state your stance. Start by analyzing the issue: identify what’s being argued, examine the evidence and reasoning on different sides, note assumptions, and consider counterarguments. This step helps you organize thoughts, reveal what matters, and spot gaps or weak points in the reasoning. Once you’ve mapped out the considerations, present your position clearly and show exactly how the analysis supports it. Tie your conclusion back to specific pieces of evidence or reasoning you uncovered, and address potential objections to show you’ve thought the topic through.

Starting with opinion can lead you to rely on feeling or bias rather than what the facts support, which makes the argument less convincing. Ignoring analysis misses the prompt’s requirement and leaves your stance unbacked. Including irrelevant facts muddies the main point and signals a sloppy approach.