How to Write a Hypothesis to an Analytical Essay

Each analytical essay includes a hypothesis, better known as a thesis. It says what you believe about a certain topic, or what you have discovered through research, in one or two sentences. It is usually included in the introduction to a report or essay, and is often placed after the general introduction to the paper's topic. Purdue University's Online Writing Lab states, "An analytical paper breaks down an issue or an idea into its component parts, evaluates the issue or idea, and presents this breakdown and evaluation to the audience."

Identify the general topic you want to write about. This may be a very broad topic, such as the history of the American Revolution. At this stage of developing your thesis, a broad topic is expected.

Research your topic. You will find some recurring themes in your reading. Perhaps a controversial aspect of the history of the American Revolution keeps popping up in the articles you read.

Narrow your focus. When you look closely at one aspect of your topic, you should find that that aspect could potentially produce some spirited conversation among your paper's readers. It doesn't state your take on the subject; it is a specific statement that could generate discussion on both (or more) sides of the topic.

Take a stand on the subject. State explicitly what you think caused/contributed to/ended the aspect of the American Revolution you've studied. The rest of your paper is devoted to supporting your thesis. Your thesis should explain your analysis of the topic, and then present what you think about it to the report's readers in one or two sentences.