How to Give Constructive Criticism.

While it is gratifying to find that someone likes your work and sometime heartbreaking to find that someone hates your work, it is even better when you, as an author or artist receive constructive criticism. Constructive criticism is used by an author or artist to make his/her work better. It is not just "this work is great," or "this work is terrible." It is a compilation of a review (how much you liked/disliked it) and a list of suggestions on how to make it better.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Pen/pencil
• Paper

1. Pay Attention!! It is very important that you pay attention when you are reading/viewing something if you are planning to give constructive criticism on it. If you do not pay attention, you might miss key elements that could change your whole outlook on the piece.
2. Make Notes. While you are reviewing a piece (especially literature) make notes as you go along. Note things that stand out to you as good, bad, confusing, etc. and list them on your piece of paper. Make sure to note any errors in format, logic, etc. Also make a note of where in the piece the particular note is referencing. There is nothing more frustrating to a writer or artist than to have someone reference something that he/she can't find to fix.
3. Compile Your Notes. Once you have finished viewing the artwork or reading the literature, organize your notes in a logical fashion so when you give them to the artist/writer, it makes sense to him/her. (Suggestions for organization: If in literature, organize your notes based on where each note is referencing within the work. If in artwork, organize your notes based on whatever is logical based on the subject matter. You wouldn't use chronological order on something that does not have a time-line.)
4. Present Your Criticism. When you write your critique, try to use objective language. Try not to use emotionally charged words. If you find that emotion is necessary to get your point across, be sure to let the artist/writer know why you feel the way you do. That way the artist/writer does not feel attacked and want to ignore the rest of your comments. Give both positive and negative comments equal weight and above all, be polite.
5. Sample Criticisms Make Suggestions. Especially when you make negative constructive criticism, it is a good idea to make suggestions on how to fix the problem. If you don't know how to fix it, say so, then suggest places they may go to get information on how to fix it.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure to note both good and bad things about a piece. It can't get any better if errors are not fixed.
• Make sure to note reference points with your comments so the artist/author can find what you are talking about.
• Be polite. People tend to stop listening when they feel attacked.
• Feel free to say how the piece makes you feel, but that is not the focus of constructive criticism.
• Do not attack the artist/writer or his/her work. They are taking their time and effort to share this part of themselves, so try to understand that even if you don't agree with them.
• If the subject matter is too much for your sensibilities, do not continue to view it. It is not the artist/author's fault that you do not like seeing puppies (or whatever the issue maybe).
• Do not say something is wrong unless you know what you are talking about. You will look uneducated if you say something is wrong when it isn't. Do research if you are unsure.