When you critique someone’s manuscript, follow these guidelines:
l. Start with something positive before moving to problem areas. (“I like the way you ______.”)
2. Be specific. Point to lines or passages that concerned you. Don’t just give general comments or reactions.
3. Line edits are always helpful, but in email format are difficult, unless you can use a different color font to highlight changes. Concentrate on “BIG” issues, such as plot glitches. (Why didn’t he just take out his gun and shoot the guy?)
4. Avoid hurtful comments. (DON’T SAY: “This is stupid.” or “You can do better.”)
5. Make constructive suggestions. If you see a problem, can you come up with a way to fix it?
6. This is not a competition. This is not the time to flame someone.
The following should be uppermost on your mind when critiquing: DO MY COMMENTS HELP MY FELLOW WRITER? (If the answer is “no,” then keep your yap shut.)
When your material is being critiqued, you should do the following:
l. Ask questions, if you don’t understand someone’s point.
2. Keep an open mind. Don’t defend yourself or your work.
3. Give yourself time before doing revisions based on the comments. You don’t have to accept or agree with all the comments and criticisms you receive.
4. And most important of all—REMEMBER: What you are reading is just one person’s opinion. However, if two or more people make the same remark, pay attention.
Red beans and ricely, Walker Joe
Come walk my horror trail if you dare. On opening page of my homepage click Blood Trust.
