Based on a couple of inquiries, I wanted to share my response about tricks on ways to critique. Once I finished replying, I realized I’d written an editorial. Never waste words, I say, so with a few touch ups, here is my take on how to critique someone else’s work without stepping on toes.
Realize that the right phrasing on criticism takes thought and manners. I do think, however, that first and foremost, the writer must request criticism before someone else gives it. Being in a class is such an example. So is submitting a book for review. Reading someone’s work then choosing out of the blue to correct it to the author, is not. Especially if you do not know them via some sort of relationship.
When I am asked to critique, I definitely rely heavily on the Oreo Method of suggestive improvement encased before and after with substantive praise. The method is classic, opening the ears of the recipient to hear positive first. The method makes them more receptive.
For example: “I liked this. This could be stronger. I really liked this.”
Another way is to say, “While I was reading, I kept expecting (fill in the blank). Or I awaited for (fill in the blank). Or I craved for character A to do (fill in the blank).” You never say you didn’t find those things or were dissatisfied. The writer understands the message without you elaborating on the negative side of the issue.
Another phrase to say is, “You could make this even better by doing (fill in the blank).”
Or, “This part makes a good point/is good. Every think about moving it to here? It might make for better (fill in the blank).”
Or, “Instead of IS PLAYING, you can say PLAYED in this place and get a more active sensation.”
It’s a little bit of a ploy, but you treat just about everything as positive, only with a hint or nudge to make it even better. It beats telling someone they did this or that poorly or shouldn’t do something.
Nobody likes to be scolded. Nobody enjoys being told they are wrong. So don’t do it. You are a wordsmith, and that applies to critiquing as well. Use those skills to make someone feel better about how they can write better, not how they wrote poorly.
Put yourself in their shoes.
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