Analytical Paragraph Writing for CBSE Class 10: Format, Samples, and Key Tips

An analytical paragraph is a concise piece of writing that requires analyzing and interpreting information presented in the form of data, such as charts, graphs, tables, or maps. It involves identifying key trends, making comparisons, and summarizing insights in a clear and structured manner without adding personal opinions.

Analytical paragraph writing is an integral part of the CBSE Class 10 English syllabus and holds significant importance in exams. It tests a student’s ability to comprehend data and present it logically within a specified word limit. Since this question type is often straightforward and marks are awarded for precision and accuracy, mastering it can greatly boost overall exam performance.

The primary objective of writing an analytical paragraph is to assess and communicate factual information effectively. By practicing this skill, students not only excel in exams but also develop critical thinking and the ability to interpret real-world data systematically.

Syllabus

Writing an Analytical Paragraph (100-120 words) on a given Map/Chart/ Graph/Cues.

Key Guidelines for Analytical Paragraph Writing

Analytical paragraph writing is often misunderstood as simply describing the given data or summarizing it. However, it involves much more than that. Here's how it stands apart:

1. What It Is NOT:
   • It is NOT a description of the elements (e.g., describing the pie chart or graph without analysis).
   • It is NOT a summary of the entire data provided.
2. What It Requires:
   • Analytical paragraph writing requires closely examining the given elements, such as graphs, charts, or tables.
   • The focus is on drawing insights, trends, and comparisons based on the given stimulus.
   • The analysis must be objective and precise, sticking only to the provided data.
3. Key Features:
   • No Title or Heading: Analytical paragraphs are written without any title or heading.
   • Single-Paragraph Structure: All points and insights are presented in one cohesive paragraph.

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Marking Criteria

1. Content (2 Marks):
   • Include at least four well-developed points or trends.
   • Ensure sustained clarity and logical progression in the analysis.
2. Organization of Ideas (2 Marks):
   • Maintain an effective style with a formal tone and functional vocabulary.
   • Present information in an orderly sequence within a single paragraph.
3. Accuracy (1 Mark):
   • Ensure correct spelling, grammar, and punctuation throughout.
4. Total = 05 Marks

By adhering to these principles, students can craft analytical paragraphs that are precise, logical, and score full marks.

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Format of an Analytical Paragraph

A well-structured analytical paragraph ensures clarity and coherence. Follow this format to create a high-scoring response:

1. Introduction

• Begin with an overview of the data/chart/graph/table provided.
• Mention what type of data is presented (e.g., a bar graph, pie chart, or table) and its purpose.
• Identify the key aspects or themes represented (e.g., time period, comparison of categories, or trends).

Sample Question: The bar graph below shows the percentage of students participating in three extracurricular activities (sports, music, and drama) across three schools (A, B, and C) in 2024. Analyze the data and write an analytical paragraph in about 120 words, summarizing the trends, comparisons, and key insights.

Example:
Ans. The given bar graph illustrates the percentage of students participating in different extracurricular activities across three schools (A, B, and C) in 2024. It highlights key trends in sports, music, and drama among the students.

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2. Body

• Explain key trends: Highlight significant increases, decreases, or notable values.
• Make comparisons: Compare data points across categories, groups, or time periods.
• Focus on contrasts: Point out differences or deviations.
• Use facts and figures from the data to back up your points. Avoid opinions or assumptions.
• Use linking words such as similarly, however, in contrast, whereas, as compared to, etc., for smooth transitions.

Example:
Sports has the highest participation rate in all three schools, with School A leading at 70%, followed by Schools B and C at 60% and 50%, respectively. Music shows a moderate participation rate, with 45% of students in School B participating, compared to 40% in School A and 35% in School C. Drama has the lowest engagement, particularly in School C, where only 10% of students participate, as opposed to 25% in School A and 20% in School B.

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3. Conclusion

• Summarize the key insights in 1-2 sentences.
• Highlight the main trend or observation without introducing new information.

Example:
In conclusion, the data clearly shows that sports are the most popular activity among students across all three schools, while drama remains the least favored. School A consistently leads in student participation across all activities.

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Key Points to Remember for Analytical Paragraph Writing

1. Stick to the Data:
   • Base your writing solely on the given data or visuals (charts, graphs, tables, etc.).
   • Avoid adding personal opinions, assumptions, or unnecessary elaborations.
2. Understand the Data
   • Take time to carefully analyze the given data/chart/graph before beginning.
   • Identify what the data represents (e.g., trends over time, comparisons, or proportions).
   • Look for important details such as units, timeframes, and key labels.
3. Highlight Key Features
   • Focus on major trends, such as increases, decreases, or steady values.
   • Pinpoint the highs and lows in the data, as these are often critical observations.
   • Mention interesting insights or unusual patterns that stand out.
4. Use Formal and Concise Language:
   • Maintain a formal tone throughout the paragraph.
   • Be precise and to the point, avoiding repetitive or flowery expressions.
5. Clear Structure:
   • Organize your paragraph into three sections: introduction, body, and conclusion.
   • Ensure a logical flow of ideas, making it easy for the reader to follow your analysis.
6. Linking Words and Phrases for Coherence:
   • Use transition words to connect ideas and ensure a smooth flow between sentences.
   • Examples of linking words:
     • To compare: similarly, in contrast, whereas, as compared to
     • To add information: moreover, additionally, furthermore
     • To highlight key points: therefore, thus, consequently

By keeping these points in mind, you can craft analytical paragraphs that are well-structured, concise, and accurate, ensuring a higher score in exams.

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Useful Phrases and Vocabulary for Analytical Paragraph Writing

Here’s a list of polished phrases to make your analysis more effective and professional:

Introduction Phrases

• The graph illustrates/shows/represents...
• The chart provides information about...
• The table depicts data related to...
• The pie chart compares...
• The bar graph highlights the distribution of...
• The given data focuses on...

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Body Phrases

• It is evident from the chart that...
• A significant increase/decrease can be observed in...
• In comparison to the previous year...
• The highest/lowest percentage/value is recorded in...
• The data suggests that...
• A similar trend is observed in...
• In contrast to...
• An upward/downward trend can be noticed in...
• The most notable feature of the data is...
• On the other hand, ...
• While X shows an increase, Y demonstrates a decline.

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Conclusion Phrases

• In conclusion, the data clearly indicates...
• Overall, it can be summarized that...
• The analysis highlights that...
• The trend suggests that...
• To sum up, the most significant observation is...

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Vocabulary for Analysis (Words to Use in Analytical Paragraph)

• Significant, notable, dramatic, consistent, gradual, sharp, slight, steep, marginal
• Increase, decrease, fluctuation, stability, growth, decline, surge, drop
• Percentage, proportion, majority, minority, total, comparison, variation

Using these phrases and vocabulary will not only enhance the quality of your analytical paragraph but also make your analysis sound polished and professional.

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Analytical Paragraphs Solved Examples from CBSE PYQs

Q. No. 1) A table showing the annual rainfall (in mm) in four cities—Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Chennai—from 2020 to 2023.

Year	Mumbai	Delhi	Kolkata	Chennai
2020	2000	800	1500	1200
2021	2100	850	1600	1250
2022	2200	900	1700	1300
2023	2300	950	1800	1350

Analyze the data and write a paragraph explaining the annual rainfall (in mm) trends.

Ans. Introduction: The table provides data on the annual rainfall (in mm) recorded in four cities—Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Chennai—over a period of four years (2020 to 2023). Body: The data reveals that Mumbai consistently experienced the highest rainfall, increasing steadily from 2000 mm in 2020 to 2300 mm in 2023. Kolkata followed, with rainfall rising from 1500 mm in 2020 to 1800 mm in 2023. Chennai's rainfall also showed a gradual increase, ranging from 1200 mm in 2020 to 1350 mm in 2023. Delhi received the least rainfall, with figures growing from 800 mm in 2020 to 950 mm in 2023. Overall, all cities saw a consistent upward trend in rainfall over the four years. Conclusion: In conclusion, Mumbai recorded the highest rainfall throughout the years, while Delhi received the least. The data indicates a consistent increase in rainfall across all four cities from 2020 to 2023.

Q. No. 2) Read the product details on a label for a school bag:

ECO-FRIENDLY SCHOOL BAG 1. Made from recycled materials 2. Ergonomic* design with padded shoulder straps and breathable mesh back panel 3. Spacious main compartment with multiple pockets and organisers 4. Reflective strips for visibility and safety 5. Water-resistant fabric 6. Available in various vibrant colours and patterns

Now, analyse why this school bag would be a beneficial purchase. Write the analytical paragraph in 120 words, considering factors such as its ecofriendliness, comfort features, functionality, safety aspects, and design options.

*Design that is intended to maximise comfort, efficiency, and safety for the user.

Ans. The Eco-Friendly School Bag stands out as an excellent purchase choice for several reasons. Firstly, its use of recycled materials demonstrates a commitment to environmental sustainability, making it an eco-conscious option. Additionally, the ergonomic design, featuring padded shoulder straps and a breathable mesh back panel, ensures maximum comfort during long school days. The spacious main compartment with multiple pockets and organisers offers ample storage space for textbooks, notebooks, and other essentials, promoting organisation and efficiency. Moreover, the inclusion of reflective strips enhances visibility and safety, especially during low light conditions. The water-resistant fabric further protects belongings from unexpected rain showers, adding durability and reliability to the bag. With its availability in various vibrant colours and patterns, this school bag not only meets functional needs but also allows for personal style expression, making it a versatile and appealing choice for students.

Q. No. 2) Read the given details of a playground intended for your resident area.

• A central climbing structure inspired by traditional Indian architecture, such as a miniature fort, with multiple levels and slides.
• Swings adorned with colorful Indian patterns, along with monkey bars and a zip line.
• A water play feature inspired by Indian fountains or rivers
• Shaded seating areas with benches and swings, resembling traditional chaupals or gazebos.
• Trees, shrubs, and flower beds
• Ample open space

Analyse the details and write an analytical paragraph in about 120 words about the suitability of this playground.

Focus on factors such as safety, inclusivity, fun features, suitability for different age groups, and overall experience.

Ans. The proposed playground design for the resident area embodies a thoughtful fusion of traditional Indian aesthetics and modern play elements. The central climbing structure, like a miniature fort, offers multifaceted play experiences, encouraging physical activity and imaginative exploration. The swings, decorated with vibrant Indian patterns, coupled with monkey bars and a zip line, add cultural flair as well as excitement to the playground. Additionally, the incorporation of a water play feature inspired by Indian fountains or rivers not only provides sensory stimulation but also offers a refreshing respite from the heat. Shaded seating areas, resembling traditional chaupals or gazebos, provide comfortable spaces for parents and caregivers to supervise and socialize. Furthermore, the presence of trees, shrubs, and flower beds, along with ample open space, enhances the overall aesthetic appeal and promotes environmental sustainability. This playground prioritizes safety, inclusivity, cultural enrichment, and environmental consciousness, ensuring an engaging and enriching experience for residents of all ages.

Or,

The proposed playground design, inspired by traditional Indian architecture, offers a blend of cultural aesthetics and functionality. The central climbing structure, resembling a miniature fort, provides multiple levels and slides, ensuring fun and adventure for children of various age groups. The inclusion of swings with vibrant Indian patterns, monkey bars, and a zip line caters to different interests, encouraging physical activity and inclusivity. The water play feature inspired by Indian fountains adds an exciting, refreshing element. Shaded seating areas designed like traditional chaupals provide a safe and comfortable space for parents and caregivers to relax. Additionally, the presence of trees, shrubs, and flower beds enhances the environment, while the open space ensures safety and freedom of movement. Overall, the playground design is well-suited to offer a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable experience for all.

Q. No. 3) Tsering, of class X, is contesting for the post of the Junior School Captain, in the upcoming student council elections. Given below is her character traits’ graphic, shared in the public domain, by the school counsellor, for the awareness of student voters, at school.

All Tsering’s peers have been asked to write a paragraph in about 120 words, analysing these traits, to either support or oppose her candidature. As one of her peers, write this analytical paragraph, by selecting some of the traits that support your analysis.

You may begin like this :

As a responsible student voter, I believe Tesring possesses/does not possess the necessary traits to be a School Captain.

You may end like this:

For these reasons, I believe she has/does not have the potential to be a good School Captain and I support/oppose her candidature.

Ans. Supporting Tesring’s candidature

As a responsible student voter, I believe Tesring possesses the necessary traits to be an excellent School Captain. Her disciplined study routine and hard work ethic indicate her ability to prioritize and manage her time effectively. Tsering is less impulsive but sensitive and focuses on the excellent outcome of tasks assigned to her demonstrating good decision-making skills. Additionally, her willingness to help peers in academic and personal difficulties highlights her empathetic and caring nature. Furthermore, Tsering believes in the "One for all and all for one" policy, which is pivotal in fostering a sense of community and promoting inclusivity in the school. While she may be an average academic performer, her positive attitude and desire for appreciation will motivate her in her pursuit of excellence. For these reasons, I believe she has the potential to be a good School Captain and I support her candidature.

Opposing Tsering’s candidature

As a responsible student voter, I have reservations about Tsering’s candidature for the School Captain’s position. While she maintains a disciplined study routine, her average academic performance suggests a lack of academic discipline. Additionally, her quest for appreciation may cause her to prioritize recognition over the well-being of the school community. Moreover, Tsering’s sensitivity, while admirable, may hinder her ability to make tough decisions and exercise effective leadership skills. While her willingness to help peers is commendable, it may also distract her from her responsibilities as the School Captain. Finally, Tsering's focus on the excellent outcome of tasks assigned to her may cause her to overlook the process and teamwork required to achieve those outcomes which are crucial for the school’s smooth functioning. For these reasons, I believe she does not have the potential to be a good School Captain and I oppose her candidature.

Q. No. 4) As the Captain of the school’s Cultural Club, you have been asked to study the given itinerary provided by a tour-organizing vendor.

A 3N/2D Educational Tour for the Senior School Students:
Jabalpur and Ranha National Park (Vandhya Pradesh)

• Tour Travel & sightseeing by bus.
• Accommodation on quad sharing basis.
• One staff complimentary for every 20 students.
• Bottled mineral water throughout the tour.

Analyse this itinerary to either approve or reject the tour proposal, while focusing on the students’ safety, interest, and physical wellness. Write this analytical paragraph in about 120 words, by selecting features that support your analysis.

You may begin like this :

A thorough analysis of the itinerary provided by the tour organizing vendor reveals that the tour proposal should be accepted/rejected.

You may end like this:

Therefore, the tour proposal for the educational trip should be approved/rejected.

Ans. Accepting the proposal

A thorough analysis of the itinerary provided by the tour organizing vendor reveals that the tour proposal should be accepted. It is well-planned and includes an array of educational activities for the students. The inclusion of visit to Bhawartal Garden, Bhedaghat Dhuandhar Falls, Marble Rocks Cable car tour, and Rani Durgavati Museum offers an opportunity for the students to learn about nature, history, and art. The tour to Kanha Tiger Reserve adds an element of adventure and allows students to connect with wildlife. The provision of bottled mineral water, insurance policy, and tour manager's assistance ensures the safety and well-being of the students. Inclusion of a DJ party adds to the entertainment, enjoyment and enthusiasm quotient of the tour. The complimentary staff provided for every twenty students further adds to the security of the students. Therefore, the tour proposal for the educational trip should be approved.

Rejecting analytical paragraph

A thorough analysis of the itinerary provided by the tour organizing vendor reveals that the tour proposal should be rejected. While the tour includes various educational activities, we have concerns about the safety and wellbeing of the students. The tour includes a long journey of nearly nine hours from Nagpur Junction to Jabalpur and vice versa. Also, it mentions an early morning departure at 5:30 am to the Kanha Tiger reserve and late evening arrival back to the hotel, on the last day. Long hours of travel and the hectic schedule may lead to physical exhaustion and hamper the learning experience of the students. Additionally, the inclusion of a DJ party may not be suitable for an educational tour. The tour-organizing vendor has not provided details on the quality of the hotel and the quad-sharing basis may not be comfortable for all students. Hence, considering the well-being of the students, the tour proposal for the educational trip, should be rejected.

Also See: English Grammar & Writing Class 10

• Determiners
• Tenses
• Modals
• Subject-Verb Agreement (Subject-Verb Concord)
• Reported Speech
• CBSE Class 10 Letter Writing

Q. No. 5) Gurmeet Kaur is an aspiring candidate for a public-funded engineering college in the suburbs. She belongs to a nearby village, has minimal technological skills and exposure, has the required cut-off percentage and is looking for a complete or partial scholarship.

Write a paragraph in about 100-120 words, analysing her SWOT notes to support your stand on whether she should join/not join the college.

Ans. In support of the decision:

The given information illustrates the options Gurmeet would weigh in order to take the right decision about her admission in a public-funded engineering college. With availability of strong curriculum, quality faculty and vibrant Activity Clubs, she will be assured of an enriching educational journey. Though hostel facility is unavailable, she may take up accommodation in the suburbs or choose to travel daily from her village. Good opportunities of practice-based research, partnership with professional companies and international students exchange program will enhance her professional and interpersonal skills. Hard work, responsible behaviour and prudent decision-making could help Gurmeet thrive in the college even though it has a rigid and conventional culture.The strengths and opportunities work in favour of Gurmeet. Taking this opportunity will allow her to mend the incorrect public perception towards public-funded colleges and students’ outlook towards technical subjects.

Against the decision:

The given information indicates Gurmeet’s dilemma about seeking admission in a public- funded college. Though equipped with a strong curriculum, engaging activity clubs and an able faculty, the college lacks diversity and good conduct among the students, giving rise to concerns of safe environment for a novice like Gurmeet. Underutilization of IT services will be further detrimental to the progress of Gurmeet’s educational journey and add to extra costs related to research work. If she does not qualify for a complete or partial scholarship, arrangement of own accommodation and additional expense of students exchange programme will increase her expenditure, too. Such a college environment may dampen her endeavoring spirit. The weakness and threats outweigh the strengths, in case of Gurmeet. So, it is recommended that Gurmeet does not apply for admission to the said college.

Q. No. 6) Read the following excerpt from an online post of a website on educational practices.

Kids who appreciate how much effort, time and care goes into growing food will understand how important farmers are, and why it's important to take care of our Earth. In the world of today, gardening needs to be given more importance than sports, music and dance in all schools because it creates environmental stewards and outdoor learning laboratories that help the child and community for years to come.

Write a paragraph in 100-120 words to analyze the given argument.

You could think about what alternative explanations might weaken the given conclusion and include rationale/evidence that would strengthen/counter the given argument.

Ans. Argument FOR the subject of the statement:

In the world of today, gardening needs to be given more importance than sports, music and dance in all schools. While sports, music and dance contribute towards personal growth, the current times mandate attention towards an issue that is global ---nature and natural processes. With growing food wastage in many homes today and the urban young believing that vegetables are grown, harvested at the super markets, the efforts of the farmers are discredited. Gardening at school will open a world of first-hand learning experiences of sowing, watering and harvesting processes. Waiting for the saplings to grow will inculcate sensitivity, patience, empathy, gratitudeand value for one’s hard work. They will feel accountable for their piece of Mother Earth, resulting in making them efficient and enterprising environmental stewards. Unlike sports, music or dance, gardening goes beyond just enjoyment to create aware and responsible citizens of the future.

Argument AGAINST the subject of the statement:

Gardening, certainly, should not be given precedence over sports, music, and dance in all schools. Gardening at school requires good planning with hands-on guidance and continued supervision by the teachers. Students tend to lose interest due to the slow and natural growth progress of plants as well as the investment of continuous hard work. Small targets or goals would be missing whereas the danger of destruction of their work due to rains, intrusion of grazing animals or a pest attack is like to set in a feeling of defeat. It may be noted that sports, music and dance are uplifting activities that display faster results, are enjoyable and inculcate team spirit, collaboration and confidence. Unlike gardening, setbacks in these activities can be addressed with some sense of personal control. These activities help students express and de-stress successfully. So, maintaining their due importance in the school’s co-curriculum is imperative.

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Practice Questions on Analytical Paragraph

1. The chart represents the proportion of time students spend on different activities during a typical school day.

• Studying: 40%
• Extracurricular activities: 25%
• Sleeping: 20%
• Eating and commuting: 10%
• Others: 5%

Analyze the data provided and write a paragraph summarizing how students allocate their time during a school day.

Hint:

• Identify the activity that takes up the largest proportion of time (studying).
• Highlight the second-largest segment (extracurricular activities).
• Mention smaller segments like eating and commuting, and others.
• Conclude with how students spend the majority of their day.

2. The table below shows the monthly sales of three electronic items—Mobile Phones, Laptops, and Tablets—in a store during the first quarter of 2023.

Month	Mobile Phones	Laptops	Tablets
January	500	300	200
February	600	350	180
March	700	400	250

Write an analytical paragraph highlighting the sales trends of these electronic items.

Hint:

• Observe the sales trends for each item (e.g., Mobile Phones have the highest sales across all months).
• Mention which product had the most consistent increase or fluctuation.
• Focus on the month with the highest overall sales.
• Conclude by summarizing the overall trend (e.g., Mobile Phones were the most popular).

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Conclusion

Practicing analytical paragraphs regularly is crucial for mastering this important skill, as it enhances a student’s ability to analyze and present information effectively. By focusing on clarity, precision, and proper grammar, students can craft well-structured paragraphs that meet the expectations of the CBSE marking scheme. Consistent practice with different types of data will also build confidence and improve time management during exams. Remember, the key to success lies in understanding the data, organizing ideas logically, and writing with accuracy and conciseness.