Practice a Review with a Review

Chao- Whether we're writing a fan fic or an original story, we like to hear/read reviews from people. As reviewers, some of us already know what to write while others need some time to think. But what do we write in a review? Do we ramble on and on about what we liked and what we didn't liked? Or should we act cautiously since other people can read them too? And why do reviews matter at all?

Why you should review: They are nice to read. They allow authors to know how their work is and what may need improving. A review can be like attending a sports game; showing up is one thing, but cheering can really help players endure the rough times and encourage them to move forward.

Chao- Have you ever read a movie or book review? Did you agree with what that person was criticizing and/or praising? If you read a review before seeing a movie or reading a book, did any of their word discourage you from looking at it? If you want some practice, consider following these steps.

Steps for Writing a Review:

1. Start with a positive comment -- people are already nervous enough when it comes to showing their work to the Internet world. A positive comment is a good way for an introduction.

2. Go on to state whether you like it or not -- you don't have to like everything you read.

3. Move on to say what you liked specifically or what you did not like. -- It doesn't help to say "Your work is wonderful! Update!" or "You suck".

4. Offer some writing advice (without being mean) or make other suggestions. -- If you have no writing experience, then skip this.

5. If you worry about hurting an author's feeling, wish them luck with the rest.


So, whether you send a review or subscribe to a story, it's like telling the author you are interested in the story and would to know what will happen next. Reviews are nice to read.

Chao- A technique that Chao had learned when reviewing public speakers is to use the "cream cookie/Oreo cookie/sandwich cookie review". You give a compliment, "sandwich" a constructive criticism, and then finish with another compliment. Let's face it, a lot of us really do prefer selective hearing, hearing what we like and ignore what we dislike. At least by using this technique we can handle criticism better.

The use of I:

Chao- Apparently it's also best to use "I" when saying what you liked or disliked when writing a review. It's also supposed to help the writer feel less defensive or something like that.

Example: "I liked reading this story from this character's viewpoint. I really got a sense of the emotion he went through. I didn't like reading a few spelling errors because I had to go back and re-read a few lines a few times. I liked the ending you gave; it made me laugh."

Chao- This entry is for those interested in expanding their review when many authors WANT constructive criticism and all they get was "Update soon". But, in the end, sometimes that's all you get. Oh, well, at least you got a review with someone interested in your story.