To analyze means to examine something carefully by breaking it down into smaller parts to understand how it works or what it means. When you analyze a story in English class, you might look at the characters, plot, and setting separately to understand the author's message. When a scientist analyzes water from a lake, she tests it for different chemicals to understand if it's clean and safe.

The key to analysis is taking something apart systematically and examining each piece. If you read a poem once and say “I like it,” that's a reaction or opinion. But if you examine the word choices, notice the rhyme pattern, and think about what the poet might be trying to express, then you're analyzing the poem.

Think of analysis like taking apart a Lego creation to see how it was built. You might analyze why your basketball team lost a game by looking at shooting percentage, turnovers, and defensive mistakes. A coach might analyze game footage to spot patterns and plan what to practice next. A chef might analyze a dish by identifying each ingredient and spice.

Strong analysis requires patience, attention to detail, and often asking good questions about what you're examining.