Feedback Guidelines

As part of this writing community, offering thoughtful and constructive feedback to others is a key way you can help other authors to grow and develop.

Think of feedback like giving a thoughtful gift – you’re offering ideas and suggestions to help make their piece shine even brighter. Here are some helpful guidelines for giving feedback that is both respectful and useful to the writer:

1. Read it all the way through

Before you dive into someone else’s work, read the piece from start to finish. Remember that you’re usually looking at sections of a whole – a whole story, a whole novel, a whole memoir – so some things will not make sense because they are out of context.

Tip: Take your time and let the story sink in on the first read. Don’t rush! The real magic happens on the second read, when you can dig deeper and catch the finer details.

2. Jot down your thoughts (the smart way!)

On your second reading, grab a pen (or use digital comments) and start jotting down your thoughts as you go. Pay attention to what catches your eye. Which lines really stand out? Which bits of dialogue feel authentic?

Example: ‘I loved how you described the city at night. The line, ‘The streets hummed with secrets,’ really stuck with me – so vivid!’

Keep an eye out for any moments that made you pause or reread. If the flow was interrupted or something didn’t quite click, note it as a question in the margins.

Example: ‘Why does the character suddenly react this way in the middle of the scene? Is there something we missed earlier that explains the shift in tone?’

Tip: Turn your feedback into a dialogue, not a monologue. Us writers love a good ‘why’ to ponder.

3. Offering constructive feedback: helping the work shine

When it’s time to organise your thoughts, remember you’re providing valuable suggestions to help the writer improve. Here are some ideas on what to focus on:

• Voice: Does the character’s voice feel authentic? Are they consistent throughout the piece?
• Originality: What’s unique about the piece? Does it stand out? What makes it special?
• Flow: Is the piece smooth?
• Dialogue: Does the dialogue sound natural? Are the characters speaking the way they would in real life?
• Character Development: Are the characters growing or evolving in a way that makes sense?
• Tension: Is there enough tension to keep us hooked?

4. Start with first impressions

Now that you’ve taken some notes, it’s time to get to the heart of the feedback. What’s your immediate reaction to the piece? Sum it up in a few lines to let the writer know what you took away from the work and give them a great starting point for their revisions.

Example: ‘This is a touching scene between two old school friends who have drifted apart. The setting feels nostalgic, and there’s a sense of looming tension throughout.’

5. Highlight the strengths (give credit where it’s due)

Next, take the time to point out the things that really worked. The writer will be grateful to hear about the things you loved, like the voice, the pacing, or how the character’s journey is unfolding.

Example: ‘The voice in this piece is so strong – it really pulls you in and makes you care about what happens next.’

Tip: Remember comments such as, ‘I think this part really works!’ is just as valuable as a suggestion for improvement.

6. Suggest areas for growth (no pressure, just possibilities)

Feedback should feel like a warm cup of tea, not a cold slap in the face. Avoid vague comments like ‘I didn’t like it.’ Be specific about what could be clearer or more engaging, and offer constructive suggestions. Think of your feedback as a collaborative brainstorming session to strengthen the piece, not rewrite it.

Example: ‘The dialogue between characters A and B was great, but I didn’t quite understand why Character B would say that. Maybe adding a bit more context could help clarify their motivation?’

Tip: Think before you type, and always consider how your words will make the writer feel. A little kindness goes a long way.

7. Wrap it up with encouragement

End your feedback on a positive note, reminding the writer of their strengths and encouraging them to keep going. Writing can be tough, so leave them feeling motivated.

Example: ‘Great work overall – I think you’re onto something really powerful here! With a little more refinement on Character A’s motivation, this could be amazing. Keep at it!’

8. Receiving feedback (it’s not about you, it’s about the work!)

Don’t take criticism personally; it’s not a rejection of you or your abilities. We’re all here to help your writing grow, not to judge you. Stay open to suggestions, but only take what resonates with you—leave what doesn’t. Not all feedback will be a perfect fit for your piece!