Writing Tip: How to Critique Another Writer's Work

Critiquing another writer's work requires balancing enough constructive criticism to improve the story with enough tact and positive reinforcement to encourage the writer. It's a tough job but it has its rewards.

Now roll up your sleeves, sharpen your pencils and start making notes in the margins.

If you have joined a writing workshop group but aren't sure how to get started with critiquing another writer's work, here are some pointers to help you out.

First, read carefully

Read the whole manuscript through at least once before you make any comments. It is important that you see the whole story before you start picking it apart. On second reading, use a pencil to mark things that don't work for you.

Note any spelling or grammar issues that need to be addressed.

Pay special attention to the beginning and the end

How you get into a story and how you get out of it are the most important parts, especially if you're submitting to busy editors who only have time to look at the first page.

Make sure the beginning shines. Does the opening sentence get the reader's attention and make them want to read on?

Identify key story components

To help the writer see if they have achieved their aim with this story, identify the central conflict of the story, the protagonist and the protagonist's objective.

Also identify the climax. If these elements are unclear, it is likely the story still needs some work.

Be specific with criticism

Remember that your goal is to help the writer improve. If something in the story doesn't work for you, try to articulate why. Is it because the character is unbelievable? The description is too long and slows down the story? The dialogue sounds like a soap opera? A specific comment like, “I don't understand how Mark got from the bedroom into the bathroom,” is more helpful than “I'm confused!”

Now the writer knows where they need to go back and add some details.

Try not to repeat the same criticism over and over

If another member of your workshop group has already pointed out that Aunt Flo is a weak character, there's no need to keep reiterating.

Move on, focusing your attention on what will most help the writer improve this story.

Look for the positive

There is something in every story to love, whether it's the clever dialogue, the concept for the story, or the way the writer described Mabel's hairstyle. Note the things that you love and be sure to mention these to the writer. We all need to hear the positive as well as the things that need work.

Remember that you are not acting as a cultural critic, but as a supportive workshop member, helping your fellow writer improve their craft.

Allow the writer to ask questions

At the end of the critiquing session, allow time for the writer to ask for clarification from the group and to ask any questions she has about how to move her story forward.

Reap the benefits

The act of reading carefully, trying to understand what works and what doesn't, and learning to articulate your thoughts about this will be invaluable to your own writing.

Plus, when it's your turn to be critiqued your workshop group will spend the same time and energy on your writing, helping to strengthen your stories and improve your craft.

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XOXO


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