Critiquing Effectively, Part I

Critiquing is a valuable skill, and an important part of communication. Not only does it improve your writing, it improves your ability to write. There is a wrong way to critique, unfortunately – which is why I am going to give you a few tips that have helped me.


It is possible for you to get as much out of critiquing as the recipient of your critique. Looking at another writer’s work will encourage self-criticism – you’ll learn how to apply your newfound critiquing skills to your own work.

• Honesty is important. As a writer, you should want to improve, and you should know that the people whose work you’re critiquing want the same thing. Lying doesn’t help you learn – and it hurts the growth of the one being critiqued as well.

• Be constructive. If you can’t criticize with kindness and be encouraging to your fellow writers, then you should spend some time practicing this. One harsh comment could incite your fellow writer into a depression. This brings me to…

• Develop thick skin. If you want to improve – as you should – then you need to remember that writing is a FICKLE profession. You could be a writing prodigy, but lacking the basic knowledge and proper tools, along with not being able to take criticism, can only hurt you.

• Objectivity! You must avoid being biased – it is possible, and it is essential to improvement. It is impossible to be completely objective, but you should try to be as unbiased as possible.

• Revise revise revise. That is what critiques are for. To make sure your best work makes it to the forefront. Don't leave things unless you are absolutely sure you want them and if a critique makes you doubt something, try and see their point of view. Bottom line is - it's your work, so if you don't want to use the suggestions, you don't have to. (Courtesy of Milica Jokanovic)

The first time you read through the piece, you shouldn’t read too intently. Getting a general impression of the writing is important. Major grammatical errors may be marked, but don’t delve too deeply into the content. Think about what stood out to you and write it down – be constructive with each remark. You can read it again after, more carefully, after you’ve acquainted yourself with the writing and style. Repetition only moves along the writing and editing process in a positive direction.


More specific things to look for: theme, word choice, form, grammar/punctuation/mechanics, setting, point of view, development, pacing, dialogue, characterization.