As a writer, I am always asking friends to give me feedback on my writing and help me with areas I could improve on or things that just sound wrong. Oftentimes, I go to my friends who I trust as writers and know what they're doing. Of course, there are also countless times when I am the one being asked to give feedback on a friend's writing. Yet because I've been on both ends of this exchange, I've learned a thing or two about giving feedback, but also receiving feedback. This week I want to talk a little bit about giving feedback, but next week we will pick back up on how to graciously receive feedback. Ready? Here are tips to remember when giving feedback: 1) Highlight the good. Sometimes when editing or giving feedback on someone's article, we can become focused on what needs changed and highlight only what could be improved. Highlighting the good and the parts that you love about the piece you're editing not only encourages the writer, but keeps your focus where it should be--helping the writer grow and know what works and what doesn't. 2) Give constructive criticism in an encouraging way. There is a way to give feedback and there is a way to not give feedback. Whether it's constructive criticism or not. A good rule to go by is to think of how you would like to receive feedback. Would you want someone to be negative about everything you're writing? When giving constructive feedback, always give it how you would like to receive it. 3) Ask clarifying questions. If something about a piece that you are editing confuses you, don't just automatically assume it should be changed and tell the writer to do so. Ask questions to help you understand what the writer is trying to get across in their writing. After you understand, give feedback on how the writer may be able to change the sentences to make them clearer or easier to understand. 4) Celebrate with them. Typically if someone is asking you to edit a piece for them it's because they plan on sharing it somewhere. When they share it or get it accepted, celebrate with them! Just like you would want someone to celebrate with you. :)
3 Comments
Olivia Bell (aka Livy)
1/20/2018 09:18:50 pm
Awesome post, Bella! These are great tips! =)
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Bella Morganthal
1/21/2018 07:05:15 pm
Thank you so much, friend! <3
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About this page:
This page of my blog is dedicated specifically to writers. I've been writing for over half of my life. I live and breathe writing. Because of that, I'm passionate about helping other writers grow, develop, and succeed. This section of my blog will include blog posts dedicated to writing, encouragement, and resources. Feel free to read through some posts and my contact form is always open if you ever have any questions or need encouragement! ♥ Archives
April 2018
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