Writing is a deeply personal and creative process, often involving countless hours of effort and dedication; we can quickly find ourselves so deeply involved in a story that it’s hard to step back and truly see it for what it is. As a writer, I’ve learned the importance of good feedback and its impact on my work, allowing me to get a clear perspective, see potential issues and blocking points, and work past them.
While it’s essential to know how to receive and process feedback correctly, it’s crucial to know how to give feedback equally. It’s easy to be too focussed on our own journey to oversee our role in the writing community and be able to assist our peers. As a writer, you will constantly exchange feedback with other writers and creatives, and giving great feedback is as important as receiving it.
How to Give Great Writing Feedback
Begin with the Positives
When providing feedback, it is crucial to highlight the aspects of the work you enjoyed or found effective. This approach demonstrates that you have engaged with the piece and appreciate the writer’s efforts, which can make them more receptive to your subsequent suggestions.
Be Specific and Concrete
Vague or general feedback can be frustrating and unhelpful for a writer. Instead, focus on providing specific, concrete examples of areas that could be improved. For instance, instead of saying, “The pacing feels off,” you might say, “The transition from the second to the third scene seems abrupt, which affects the pacing of the script.”
Offer Constructive Criticism
Feedback should always aim to help the writer improve, so providing constructive and actionable suggestions is essential. Instead of pointing out issues, offer possible solutions or alternative approaches the writer might consider.
Be Aware of Your Biases
As a reader, you bring your preferences and biases to a piece of writing. It’s essential to be aware of these when providing feedback, as they may influence your interpretation of the work. Strive to differentiate between personal preferences and objective concerns.
Use the Sandwich Technique
The sandwich technique involves providing positive feedback, followed by constructive criticism, and then ending with more positive feedback. This approach can help make the feedback process feel more balanced and supportive while ensuring the writer receives the guidance they need to improve their work.
How to Receive Writing Feedback
Embrace the Opportunity to Grow
Receiving feedback on your writing can be difficult, especially if you are passionate about it. It’s natural to sometimes take negative feedback personally. But always remember, it isn’t personal, and the ultimate goal of any feedback is to improve the work and help you become a better writer.
Listen Actively and Openly
Listening actively and openly without becoming defensive or dismissive is crucial when receiving feedback. This means genuinely hearing and considering the suggestions offered, even if they initially seem challenging or uncomfortable.
Ask Questions for Clarification
Feel free to ask questions if you need clarification on specific feedback or would like more information. This can help ensure that you fully understand the suggestions and can make informed decisions about whether and how to implement them.
Reflect on the Feedback
After receiving feedback, take the time to reflect on the suggestions and determine which ones resonate with you and your intentions for the piece. Remember that you are ultimately the author of your work and have the final say in the revisions you choose to make.
Express Gratitude
Finally, remember to express gratitude to those who have taken the time to read and critique your work. Providing thoughtful, constructive feedback is a time-consuming process, and it is essential to acknowledge the effort and care that your readers have invested in helping you improve your writing.
You can foster a collaborative and supportive environment for yourself and fellow writers by openly approaching feedback, focusing on constructive criticism, and being committed to growth. Embrace the opportunity to learn from the perspectives of others, and remember that feedback is a powerful tool for refining your craft and producing the best possible work. You will become a better writer and valuable contributor to the writing community through practice, patience, and humility.
