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.