Analytical papers

Often you’ll be given assignments that ask you to apply the theories you’ve studied to a situation, a legal case, or a personal account written by someone in the criminal justice system. For assignments like these, you will generally be expected to describe the theory and its main components and to use the theory to explain specific situations and people’s behaviors and life choices.

Sometimes analytical papers conclude with program or policy recommendations based on the usefulness or persuasiveness of the theory.

Related topics:

Research papers

Argument or position papers

Investigative and administrative reports

Policy memos

Case briefs and legal briefs

Case plans (or case notes)