Giving Feedback to Writers

Nothing is scarier for any aspiring writer than to receive negative feedback on his or her work, yet nothing is also more helpful. A manuscript returned with red slashes and notes all over for revision or rewriting can traumatize a new writer.

In the same vein, nothing is more challenging for an editor than be given a manuscript that doesn’t meet expectations, and then have to spend time reviewing and improving it.

Getting and giving feedback each have their own pitfalls. As an aspiring writer who is still getting it, it’s hard not to take criticism personally. Er, what constructive criticism? And as an editor giving feedback, it’s difficult not to feel disappointed when you correct the same mistakes over and over. Argh, I have to review it again?

At some point, tension can escalate between the two parties given that the revisions are inadequate and the deadline is dreadfully approaching. To avoid this from happening, let me share a few points to remember before writing feedback and batting that “eagle-eyelash”:

1. Nothing should be personal. Discuss (or diss) the document, not the writer. Avoid comments or criticisms that could undermine the writer’s confidence.
2. Give the writer an idea of what to fix. Explain why you found something to be wrong, instead of just marking it in the document.
3. Focus on the content first, the organization and structure second, and then the mechanical errors: typos, spelling, grammar and style, etc., last.
4. Train writers by giving them useful feedback, so you can avoid (or at least lessen) the same mistakes in his or her next document.
5. Strike a balance between giving constructive suggestions for improvement and providing equally supportive feedback by commending the good points, giving helpful suggestions, and important notes at the end of the document.