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Craft of Writing

Suzan L. Wiener

Critique Without Being Offensive

Have you ever inadvertently hurt another writer’s feelings by making what you thought were constructive comments only to have them be interpreted as ill-considered and or even mean-spirited? You probably really meant to be helpful but it didn’t turn out that way. Or have you been afraid to say something negative in your critique, even to a friend, for fear the writer might take it personally?

Just as in everyday interaction with others, tact can play a big part in getting your point across when critiquing another writer‘s work. And you certainly don’t want to alienate an author who might someday be critiquing your work. Not if you hope to get fair feedback that might actually help you improve what you have done.

If you only make highly negative comments and throw in a few unkind personal remarks to round it out, it doesn’t take any great genius to conclude that the writer isn’t going to accept even the good points you might have made. After all, if you’re in a conversation and the other person is just saying negative things and making uncalled for comments, do you hang around and continue listening or find something better to do with your time?

The same premise holds true when doing a critique. Even strong criticism can be presented in a way that the writer will at least consider, if not accept. On the other hand, a “shotgun for a fly” approach has been known to hit beginners so hard they get completely turned off to the whole idea of writing, even as a hobby. That is definitely not what you are trying to achieve.

Here are eight ways to avoid that problem and still say what you really think about the writer‘s work.

When you write a critique, think about it as if you were receiving it, instead of writing it. That way, you will stay aware of where you might improve the tone so your point comes across without seeming harsh or malicious. Even if you feel it is an honest assessment of their writing, you can word it in such a way as to not attack the writer personally. This is the most important thing in critiquing and one that will define you as a critic.

Always start your critique by saying something positive about the work. No matter how bad you might think it is, try starting with a positive remark, such as "I can see that you have given thought to your piece, but..." Or, “You made a lot of valid points, but...” That way, the writer won't feel defensive from the onset. He/She will be open to read what you have written and will want to see what you have to say.

Assess the work in detail so the author will get an in-depth critique. Saying "This stinks, you wasted your time and mine," is meaningless and cruel. The author won't be able to make any necessary changes without knowing what the problems are. A beginning writer will often be grateful for constructive criticism, and even a more experienced one will give suggestions consideration if they are presented in a thoughtful manner.

Don't be afraid to give your honest opinion of the author's work. Keeping it to yourself won't help an author who wants to improve his or her writing. No one should be afraid of frankness as long as it is presented fairly and without maliciousness. In fact, they should welcome it. Remember, though, it is important to weigh your words carefully.

It's a good idea to print out your critique first before posting it. This way, you can edit your own work away from the computer and see if it needs to be changed, added to or, possibly, toned down.. Taking the time to do this forces you to view the critique as the author will and may even start you thinking about your own work.

Every piece has some redeeming value, even if it is only the idea at its core. But if it is truly written so badly that you would have to go on and on about problems and mistakes, it might be a better idea not to give a critique. Trashing it completely certainly won‘t ingratiate you with the writer and you won't feel good about it either. Instead, you can just say that “the idea was a good one but it needs a lot of work,” and then make one or two suggestions about major problems. You get the satisfaction of possibly helping someone and the writer is left with the impression that you are providing positive reinforcement.

Consider buying a book about critiquing, or at least find articles about it in The Writer, Writer's Market, or online from sites such as Google.com or Yahoo.com. It will be extremely helpful to you.

Critiquing may not come easy to you at first, but after awhile you will enjoy helping others with their writing. Even if you feel you aren't fully qualified to do it at the time you start, you are just because you want to do it. Once you post your critique, you have done a favor for someone who will no doubt appreciate it. Remember, “treat others as you want to be treated” really applies here. And if someone critiques your critique, consider it a learning experience.