Comments on: How to be a Good Critique Group Partner

By: Beth MacK

Beth MacK — Mon, 12 May 2025 14:44:01 +0000

Sharing in a critique group can be scary. Clear, constructive criticism is important and worth it, though. The toughest part can be finding a group that is a good fit for you as an author.

By: 🖋 Writing Links Round Up 12/2 – B. Shaun Smith

🖋 Writing Links Round Up 12/2 – B. Shaun Smith — Mon, 02 Dec 2024 20:39:50 +0000

[…] How to be a Good Critique Group Partner […]

By: Lisa Norman

Lisa Norman — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 19:07:20 +0000

I used to be in a great online critique group that was very supportive. Sadly, time and life took a toll. I think one of the hardest things to understand is that "this is good" is NOT what people need from a critique partner. It may seem like it is being kind, but it has always left me thinking... did they even read it?

By: Ellen Buikema

Ellen Buikema — Sun, 22 Sep 2024 17:40:18 +0000

In reply to Dianne Allen. Thank you, Dianne! I'm happy that you've found a great group of writers to share your work with. That makes all the difference in the world. So encouraging!

By: Dianne Allen

Dianne Allen — Sun, 22 Sep 2024 17:29:11 +0000

What an excellent and helpful article!
The author’s perspective is exactly on point. I am fortunate to be a member of a writing group that embodies these approaches. I’ve witnessed how supportive and insightful feedback elevate one’s work.

Thank you for sharing these key factors of a successful writer’s critique group. Well done!

By: Ellen Buikema

Ellen Buikema — Sat, 21 Sep 2024 04:31:37 +0000

In reply to denise. Hi Denise, If you have good people to bounce ideas off that's awesome! You know what works best. The critique groups have helped me look at scenes from different perspectives, which I always appreciate.

By: denise

denise — Sat, 21 Sep 2024 04:17:28 +0000

I have one or two people to bounce ideas off of, but not a true critique group.

By: Ellen Buikema

Ellen Buikema — Fri, 20 Sep 2024 21:18:37 +0000

In reply to Kris Maze. Hi Kris, I was often called on the "it" word. So much so that later, as I typed the word, I heard a particular voice from critique group saying, "What is it?" LOL The phrase you mentioned popped into my head as I wrote this piece I love it when that happens!

By: Ellen Buikema

Ellen Buikema — Fri, 20 Sep 2024 21:14:00 +0000

In reply to Jenny Hansen. Jenny, that is so true! We are too close to our own work and need lots of eyes-on. Much insight to be gained.

By: Kris Maze

Kris Maze — Fri, 20 Sep 2024 21:02:44 +0000

Hi Ellen, This is a very useful post. The examples of how to work in constructive criticism are very helpful. (I chuckled at your conversation about using the word "it", btw. Perhaps I can relate to that one too!)Lori's list of things to look for is a great resource too. Thanks for providing this and for reminding me that critique groups are the secret sauce of getting many eyes on our "private acts for public consumption."