Fiction Fundamentals

Note: This post is an article I wrote for the October 2007 issue of American Christian Fiction Writer’s Ezine, Afictionado.

Multi-published author Ginny Smith never studied writing. She credits her success in print to her critique partners. While some may cringe at the word “critique,” Ginny explained that evaluating another writer’s work is not only an act of service, but also benefits the critiquer. But she adds a caveat: If it’s done correctly. “Because,” she said, “critiques can range from the good, to the bad, to the really insulting.”

How does one critique correctly? Smith recently shared her twelve-step critiquing method with attendees of her Late Night Chat at the 2007 American Christian Fiction Writers Conference.

1. Pray. Pray before critiquing another’s work as well as before reading a critique you’ve received.
2. Understand the genre. If you’re not familiar with a genre you’re asked to critique, do a bit of research before reading and familiarize yourself with the genre’s peculiarities.
3. Read it. Read through the piece once first to get a feel for the tone and context.
4. Read a second time. Make another pass through and jot down quick comments as thoughts come to you.
5. Read a third time. Go through the manuscript a third time, this time making more in-depth edits and revision suggestions.
6. Check structure. Check for structure/summary as well as line editing.
7. Be honest. Above all, be honest with your critique partner. This will help him or her improve at the craft of writing.
8. Encourage. Use your comments to encourage and motivate your critique partner. Don’t be harsh or negative.
9. Be specific. Be specific with your suggestions. Being vague in your comments is not helpful.
10. Point out strengths. Point out the good parts as well as areas that need improvement. Keep your overall tone positive. Don’t depress your partner!
11. Write a summary. At the end, state what you got out of the piece, what you feel needs work, and what worked well. Explain why and give examples.
12. Protect confidentiality. Protect the work of your critique partner. Never share or post anyone else’s work that has been sent to you for a confidential critique. Make sure when you return the work that you send it to your critique partner or group – not to the entire ACFW loop.

In addition, Ginny also suggested ways to receive a finished critique. First, do not view a critique as a personal attack. Read the entire critique before making any changes, and remember this is only one person’s opinion. If you are unsure whether or not to make changes based upon the critique you received, check with another writer or your mentor.

Consider each comment made carefully. It is okay to “agree to disagree” and ignore the advice of your critique partner, but it would be best to get a second (or third) opinion before doing so.

Finally, it is considered unprofessional to respond to a critique. If you are unsure of a comment, request clarification. Otherwise, simply say, “Thank you.”