Literature Writing About Literature DO let the structure of your argument take priority over the structure of the text. Too many papers start with line 1 or Chapter 1 and plow through straight to the ending. If you simply follow the text, your argument will have no shape or direction. Organize your argument first, and then arrange your notes and evidence to fit that organization. DO use the language of the text as your evidence.
Nothing persuades quite so quickly and thoroughly as the text itself.
Sometimes you may need to summarize or paraphrase a section for convenience or clarity, but when you can use the author's own words, do so. Some writers pile on quotations without showing how they apply to the argument. Do show the connection between the claim and the evidence. DO NOT praise the text or author, no matter how great they are. One of the rewards of studying literature is the constant discovery of brilliant insights and technical mastery.