Focus: The writer clearly states the problem or question that the paper is trying to answer and answers that question. The writer does not go beyond the scope of the assignment. The writer keeps focused on the question, and does not stray to tangential or unrelated issues.

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Thesis: The paper contains a clear statement of their position (preferably) in the introductory paragraph.

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Organization: The paper has a logical order; each sentence and paragraph follows sensibly from the one previous. There is a clear statement of purpose and organization in the opening paragraph. The writer devotes a separate paragraph to each new question/issue to be discussed.

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Textual analysis: The writer demonstrates careful reading and comprehension of the text (when relevant), and supports their interpretation of the material with textual evidence.

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Exposition: The writer makes his/her ideas explicit with concrete examples, uses specific language, and gives a detailed explanation and analysis of main points and concepts.

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Clarity: The paper reads well. Unfamiliar terms are defined and explained. The ideas are expressed in a concise and direct fashion. (See Strunk and White, The Elements of Style for a good reference on writing well.)

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Grammar: The author uses complete sentences, is careful of verb-subject agreement, avoids indefinite pronouns, etc..

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Depth: The writer demonstrates thoughtful and thorough analysis of the issues at hand. The writer’s position is well supported with arguments and evidence. They are explicit about the reasons that they adopt their position; whether this amounts to stating explicit principles, considering consequences, or logical analysis and critical consideration of the opposing point of view.

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Considers Objections: The writer anticipates what an opponent of their thesis might argue, takes objections seriously, and answers objections. The writer does not make a "straw man" of the opposition, but considers the strongest possible argument in their opponent’s favor.

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