The purpose of analysis is to understand something better or more deeply, so as you analyze an idea or issue, your thinking may change and evolve. Deeper learning or understanding is valuable. It exposes falsehoods and moves us closer to truth. A good strategy for overcoming this barrier is to approach analysis with an open mind.

Don’t approach analysis thinking I will prove this is right or I will prove this is false. Begin analysis by thinking I want to understand this more deeply.

When studying something intently, people often see flaws or imperfections they hadn’t noticed before. Those imperfections can diminish an analyst’s enjoyment or appreciation of the object. Furthermore, once in the habit of analyzing, some people can’t turn off their analytical instincts. Because intense analysis is hard, it becomes exhausting to run around analyzing everything. Some people avoid analysis because they fear they don’t have the energy for it. To avoid analysis burnout, manage it in small chunks. Don’t try to analyze an artifact in one session. Tackle it in several short sessions with breaks in between.

If you find yourself analyzing things beyond your assignment, congratulate yourself on your growing prowess, but remember that sometimes it’s best to turn off the skills before you exhaust them.

Some people equate analysis with “speculation,” “guessing,” or “inferring meaning that isn’t there.” If analysis is done poorly, it can be inaccurate and damaging. The onus is on analysts to support their interpretations with plenty of evidence. Keep in mind that the purpose of analysis is not to present unequivocal truth. Effective and complex analysis offers a well-supported interpretation with the aim of convincing the reader that the interpretation is plausible rather than invincible.

By supporting your analysis with a variety of solid evidence, you will avoid the criticism that your analysis is mere conjecture.