A method for assigning a summary score to a product, performance, or work sample based on a prior analysis that defined the key traits, dimensions, or characteristics possessed by the class of objects being scored. The object is scored independently against each dimension, and a summary score is calculated following a set formula. The summary score may be a simple total (or average) across dimensions, a weighted total, or a more complex algorithm. An example might be the scoring of a piece of persuasive writing on such traits as attention to audience, correct use of grammar and punctuation, focus on the topic, and persuasiveness of argument.