For an analysis essay or a research essay of a novel, the format is point/proof/explanation and I'm asking what is explanation? Can someone please explain me what "explanation" thoroughly with examples too?

Answer 1

Think of it this way:

1. point - the main idea you intend to prove correct in your essay

2. proof - the details and evidence you use to prove your point

3. explanation - your interpretation of each detail and piece of evidence so that the reader understands exactly what you are thinking; you don't expect the reader to assume anything.

You can also equate these terms to Jane Schaffer's terminology, except that you will be using them to plan and organize an entire paper, while she is referring to one paragraph:
http://huertas.vms.lusd.org/Janeschafferhowsto.html
point - topic sentence (TS)
proof - concrete detail (CD)
explanation - commentary (CM)

Let me know if this doesn't make sense.

=)