IB English: How to Analyse Literary Works Without Sounding Generic

1. Go Beyond "The Author Uses…"

Every student starts with "The author uses imagery…" You can stand out by asking:

• Why does the author choose this technique here?
• How does it affect the reader's perception?
• Does the technique develop or contrast earlier ideas?

This shift from "what" to "why/how" shows real analytical depth.

2. Use TEEL to Structure Your Paragraphs

Structure helps clarity. Follow TEEL:

• Topic sentence: State the idea you're exploring
• Evidence: Quote or reference a technique
• Explanation: Unpack how it works and why it's significant
• Link: Tie it back to the question or theme

Repeat this across body paragraphs for a high-quality response.

3. Context Matters — But Don't Let It Dominate

Yes, knowing context (e.g. post-colonialism, feminism, historical background) adds value. But avoid turning your essay into a history report.

Context should:

• Support your analysis of the text
• Deepen your interpretation, not distract from it

Focus first on the text, then layer in context where helpful.

4. Practice With Focused Feedback

Most students don't improve just by writing more — they improve by getting the right kind of feedback.

With Study Marker, you can:

• Upload your practice paragraph or full essay
• Get AI-powered suggestions on clarity, structure, and literary depth
• Revise quickly and confidently

Final Tip

Great IB English essays don't just identify techniques — they explain how those techniques shape meaning. The more you practice clear, structured analysis, the more confident and original your writing will become.