The chart below shows some of the differences between analysis and description. The
highlighted terms may be useful in providing clues to these two different
approaches to study.
Description sometimes means … | Analysis sometimes means … |
Learning a mathematical method or formula by practising it in a series of set
exercises. | Solving a problem by choosing and applying a mathematical formula you have learnt. |
Giving examples of types of structures, eg social
structures such as the family or education. | Organising those examples so that a trend might be observed and recorded, perhaps in a
spreadsheet. |
Expressing in speech or writing your thoughts and
feelings about a painting, a story, or a piece of music. | Explaining the effects of the painting, story or music
in terms of its:
- history
- social context
- artist's life
- style.
|
Summarising trends in, for example, economics or behaviour. | Explaining the causes and suggesting likely effects of particular trends. |
