[Stylist] Question about critiquing other peoples' writing

[Bridgit Kuenning-Pollpeter]

Vejas,

When I participate in writing workshops and when I lead workshops, yes, I
give the exact same kind of feedback regardless if a writer is new or not.
Same with written feedback.

It's important to keep comments objective. Remember there's a difference
between wrong and preference. For example, I may not prefer a particular
genre or style, but there's nothing wrong with this, and I need to keep my
comments objective. We should not bring judgement into our comments. I see
this a lot more with nonfiction than fiction, but still something to keep in
mind.

I don't usually point out grammatical or punctuation errors unless it's
something repetitive. Like a constant misuse of commas; then I will point it
out. Or of course, if the author ask me to copy edit in addition to story
editing.

But you listed some of the main focuses to pay attention too when providing
feedback. Character development, structure, plot arc, voice and style, word
choice, sentence construction, literary devices, etc. These are all things I
focus on and will give as detailed feedback to any writer, whether new or
seasoned.

Bridgit

-----Original Message-----
From: Stylist <stylist-bounces at nfbnet.org> On Behalf Of Vejas Vasiliauskas
via Stylist
Sent: Saturday, May 4, 2019 1:58 AM
To: stylist at nfbnet.org
Cc: Vejas Vasiliauskas <alpineimagination at gmail.com>
Subject: [Stylist] Question about critiquing other peoples' writing

Hi All,
I have a question about critiquing a piece of writing when the author is new
to a particular style of writing. A friend of mine at school sent me a short
story to read and critique for a non-major creative writing class. It had a
great premise, but really needed work on character development, spelling,
grammar and tenses. I wrote back (this was through email) that this was a
great first draft and I loved the premise, and gave some examples of
particular passages that needed to be changed, with the general point to
check spelling and grammar. I didn't want to point out all the grammar
mistakes I saw so as not to make it seem too overwhelming.
I wanted to ask you all if you critique in the same way with a newer writer
as you would with these who write quite a bit. I have a few friends who
enjoy writing, and when looking at their work I feel more comfortable giving
constructive criticism.
Thanks,
Vejas 
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