Identify the Main Point
 
Most sources make a main point that you should pay attention to. Often the main point will be expressed in the form of a thesis statement. As you read critically, make sure you understand what the writer wants readers to accept, believe, or do as a result of reading the document.

Find Reasons and Evidence that Support that Main Point
 
Once you've identified the main point, look for the reasons given to accept it. Reasons can take a wide range of forms and are often presented in the forms that appeal to emotions, logic, principles, values, or beliefs. Reasons are only as good as the evidence offered to support them. Some types of support you might find: experts, personal experience, observations, interviews, or statistical data. Note: When you find empirical evidence used in a source, consider where the evidence comes from and how it is being used.