- Understand the tone and mood of a reading
Understanding the tone and mood in a reading is helpful to putting a reading into its context. Here are some steps you can follow:
- Identify author’s purpose: Is it to inform, persuade, entertain, or something else?
- Identify the intended audience: The tone and mood may vary depending on the audience and their level of familiarity with the topic.
- Pay attention to the language used: Look for specific words and phrases that convey the writer’s attitude or emotion. For example, a sarcastic tone may include exaggerated language, while a formal tone may use technical terms and formal language.
- Consider the author’s background and culture: The author’s background and cultural context can influence their tone and mood. For example, someone from a different culture may use different language to express their emotions.
Once you have read carefully, identify the overall tone and mood. Is it positive or negative, serious or humorous, formal or informal? Being able to understand the tone and mood will enable you to better interpret what you read.