Three Basic Guidelines for
Readers and Writers
Readers:
-
Talk
about the paper, not the writer. Don't say, "You confused me in the opening paragraph,"
but rather, "The opening paragraph confused me." But also remember: you
aren't supposed to "diagnose" the paper and offer cures; you are one of
(hypothetically) many readers and you simply react to the essay by
describing what you read. Always focus the subject of the discussion on the
paper.
-
Two
things need to be true in your responses: you need to be
honest but you need to be diplomatic,
too.
This might have to be learned after a few sessions, but it is a
skill worth developing. Even in giving feedback, you need to
have your audience in mind so figure out the best way to address
that audience.
- Whether what
you say is criticism or compliment, always be specific
and give examples. Is grammar a problem? Then
mention this in general, but highlight one or two examples;
if you are confused by a word, sentence, or passage, then please note that
specific passage and
tell the writer. If the paper feels disorganized, point to where in the draft
you got lost. Always try to identify exactly where things go
right or wrong. Writers need that information!
Writers:
-
First of all, do not apologize for your draft when you begin the exchange.
And when you get
your drafts back, be sure to review written comments completely and ask questions of a
reviewer to
get any clarification on comments. Don't guess at any comments you don't
understand! The feedback only works if you understand it.
-
Try not to get defensive if a comment is critical: take
any response as honest reader feedback and weigh it against
other comments and your own sense about what the paper is trying to
accomplish.
So listen more than you explain yourself. Remember:
if your readers are confused, you're not done!
-
Remember to say "Thank you" to your reader when the process is over! Your
reader is doing you a big favor by giving you his/her considered opinions
about how your draft sounds. He or she has just spent 15 - 20 minutes with
your draft that he/she will never get back! The least you can do is say,
"Thanks!"