Critiquing 101

How to Receive a Critique:

1.      Be receptive. Remember, that’s why you came to the group.

2.      Do not argue with the critiquers or try to explain why you’ve written it that way. If it isn’t clear to the critiquers, it’s unlikely to be clear to the editor or your audience.

3.      Take notes as the critiquer talks, take the comments seriously.

4.      Feel free to ask the critiquer questions to clarify his/her points of critique.

5.      Respect is all important. Thank the critiquer for his/her comments.

How to Give a Critique

1.      Above all, be courteous. First, find one aspect of the work about which to be positive.

2.      Discuss the work in a forthright manner, basing your critique on what is there, not what you would put there.

3.      Make suggestions as to additions and changes, always framing your comments as suggestions rather than edicts.

4.      If you are not familiar enough with the genre being critiqued, say so politely and defer to others in the group; making general comments if possible.

5.      Remember writers are people with feelings. Always strive to help the writer not put him/her down.