To write a Text-Dependent Analysis (TDA) essay, follow these key steps:
Structure of a TDA Essay
- Introduction: Introduce the text(s) by naming the passage(s) and restate the prompt or question you are addressing.
- Body Paragraphs (2-3 paragraphs): Each paragraph should focus on a specific point that supports your answer.
- Conclusion: Summarize your main points and restate how the evidence supports your response
Writing Process
1. Understand the Prompt and Text
- Read the passage(s) carefully.
- Identify key words in the prompt.
- Restate the prompt in your own words to ensure understanding
2. Gather Evidence
- Find 2-3 examples from the text that support your answer.
- Use direct quotes or paraphrase correctly.
- Cite the text with page or line numbers when possible
3. Analyze and Explain
- Examine each piece of evidence.
- Explain what the evidence means and how it supports your answer.
- Infer deeper meaning or significance related to the prompt
4. Organize Your Writing
- Use transition words to connect ideas logically.
- Make sure paragraphs flow well and stay focused on the prompt
5. Cite Your Evidence
- Use quotation marks for direct quotes.
- Include the title, author, and page or line number if required.
- Avoid plagiarism by properly citing all sources
Tips for Success
- Brainstorm and plan your essay using a graphic organizer before drafting
- Write multiple paragraphs to fully develop your response
- Practice writing TDAs with class examples and gradually move to independent work
- Use sentence starters to introduce text evidence, such as "According to the text..." or "The author states..."
By following these guidelines, you can write a well-organized, evidence-based TDA essay that clearly answers the prompt using information from the text(s)
