Understanding Author’s Purpose

The author's purpose is the reason they wrote the text. It might be to inform, persuade, entertain, or explain.

Identifying Tone

Tone is the author’s attitude toward the subject, shown through word choice and style. Tone can be serious, humorous, angry, or enthusiastic.

How to Analyze

• Look for emotional language or words with strong connotations.
• Ask why the author wrote this. Are they trying to change your mind, teach you, or make you laugh?
• Notice if the writing feels formal or casual.

Real-World Example

Identifying tone and purpose helps you figure out if a news article is neutral or opinionated, or if a commercial is trying to persuade you.

Practice

Read two reviews—one positive, one negative—and notice how the tone and purpose differ.