Case studies appear across business, nursing, law, education and the social sciences. The format varies, but the analytical discipline is the same: describe, analyse with a framework, then recommend.
1. Frame the problem
Open by setting the scene and stating the central problem or question the case raises. Keep description tight — it’s context, not the main event.
2. Analyse with a framework
Don’t just narrate what happened; apply a relevant lens (e.g. SWOT, a theoretical model, clinical guidelines). The framework is what turns a story into analysis.
Introduction/background → problem statement → analysis (with framework + evidence) → recommendations → conclusion.
3. Recommend and justify
End with specific, actionable recommendations that follow directly from your analysis — and explain the reasoning and trade-offs behind each.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Too much description and not enough analysis.
- Applying no framework, so the analysis has no structure.
- Recommendations not grounded in the evidence presented.
- Ignoring alternative explanations or solutions.
Frequently asked questions
How long should a case study be?
It depends entirely on the brief — from a couple of pages to a full report. Whatever the length, keep description short and devote most of the words to analysis.
Do I need a framework?
Almost always. A framework (SWOT, a theory, clinical guidelines) is what turns description into structured analysis and shows you can apply course concepts.