Lit101
Writing ForumEntry #2
Constructive criticism is one of the most important factors in turning your first draft into something suitable for the printing presses! It always helps to get a fresh pair of eyes on your story, as they can find mistakes you missed and they provide a new perspective. If handled properly, this critique can build into a dialogue between author and reader which can be immensely beneficial to both parties!
That is why it is very important for those providing and receiving reviews to act with respect for one another.
First we'll start with giving criticism!
When offering feedback, first check what the authors is looking to accomplish with their submission and what they know they need to work on. This will help focus your critique to best suit their goals. If someone knows that they a problem with description in their story, you don't need to belabor this point. Instead, offer suggestions as to what could solve this.
It is often helpful to open the "Reply" Thread in a new tab while you have the story open, so you can refer back to it as needed. Posting your comments within the quoted text also helps the author to know what you are referring to.
Tell the author what's wrong with their piece, and if you can, what they can do to fix it. There's no need to be nasty here as everyone is a different level in their writing. Be sure to tell them what's working too! The object isn't to destroy their desire to write, but to help them become better writers!
Now, when receiving criticism, it is even more important that you remember to be respectful! Nobody likes being told that their story isn't the greatest thing to ever grace the internet, but it's a fact of life that your first story will probably have lots of mistakes. That's just part of the process of learning to write!
When you submit something to the Writing Forum, you should expect to receive criticism. The purpose of the forum is to help everyone improve their writing, so your submission will be critiqued and suggestions will be made. If you don't want other peoples' opinions of your work, you probably should reconsider posting it.
When someone gives you feedback, be sure to thank them for taking the time to read your work. Respond to any suggestions they have for you and answer any questions or misunderstandings they may have.
Don't become angry if a reviewer didn't like your story. It happens. A negative review is not a personal attack. Find out what they didn't like, and take it into consideration when you plan your editing or rewriting.
If you follow these basic guidelines to giving and receiving critique, the writing forum can be a great tool to furthering your writing ability!
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2013-06-02 09:09:33
Founda a GRAMMER error.
"When offering feedback, first check what the authors is looking to accomplish with their submission and what they know they need to work on. This will help focus your critique to best suit their goals. If someone knows that they a problem with description in their story, you don't need to belabor this point. Instead, offer suggestions as to what could solve this."
"This will help focus your critique to best suit their goals. If someone knows that they a problem with description in their story, you don't need to belabor this point. "
"If someone knows that they [have?] a problem"