Case Analysis

In writing your analysis and evaluation, bear in mind four things:

1.    You are obliged to offer analysis and evidence to back up your conclusions. Do not rely on unsupported opinions, over-generalizations, and platitudes as a substitute for tight, logical argument backed up with facts and figures.

2.   If your analysis involves some important quantitative calculations, use tables and charts to present the calculations clearly and efficiently. Don’t just tack the exhibits on at the end of your report and let the reader figure out what they mean and why they were included. Instead, in the body of your report cite some of the key numbers, highlight the conclusions to be drawn from the exhibits, and refer the reader to your charts and exhibits for more details.

3.    Demonstrate that you have command of the strategic concepts and analytical tools to which you have been exposed. Use them in your report.

4.    Your  interpretation  of  the  evidence  should  be  reasonable  and  

objective.  Be  wary  of  preparing  a  one-sided  argument  that  omits  all  aspects  not  favorable  to  your  conclusions.  Likewise,  try  not  to  exaggerate or overdramatize. Endeavor to inject balance into your analysis and to avoid emotional rhetoric. Strike phrases such as “I think,” “I feel,” and “I believe” when you edit your first draft and write in “My analysis shows,” instead.