Critiques are Essential for Writers

Posted on by Karen Cioffi

As a children’s editor and book reviewer, I’ve read lots of manuscripts and books, and it’s easy to tell which authors haven’t bother to have their work critiqued.

Any advice I give on writing for children or writing in general, I always include the importance of honing your skills and belonging to a critique group. Even experienced authors depend on the unique perspective and extra eyes that each critique member provides.

The critique group can catch a number of potential problems with your manuscript:

  1. Grammatical errors
  2. Holes in your story
  3. Unclear sentences, paragraphs, or dialogue
  4. The forward movement of the story
  5. Overuse of a particular word, adjectives, and adverbs
  6. Unnecessary words that should be removed to help create a tight story
  7. Dangling teasers – particular content in the story that may leave the reader dangling if not developed and followed through with
  8. Inappropriate word usage, especially in the case of young children’s stories
  9. Inappropriate actions on the part of the protagonist, specifically in the case of young children’s stories
  10. Consistency

The list goes on and on. And it’s nearly impossible for even experienced writers to catch all their own errors.

Below is a list of what else a critique group can do for you.

Objective Feedback:
Your critique partners will also provide objective feedback and constructive criticism of your work. This feedback will help you identify strengths and weaknesses in your writing, helping you to improve your writing skills.

Note here that it is up to you whether to heed those suggestions and comments, but if all the members of your group suggest you rewrite a particular sentence or paragraph for clarity, hopefully, a light will go off and you’ll pay attention.

With those extra sets of eyes to help, you will begin to see your writing improve. You will also find your errors and those of others much quicker. A critique group will help you become a better and more confident writer.

Diverse Perspectives:
Different members bring unique perspectives, enriching the feedback with various viewpoints and ideas that can enhance your work.

Accountability:
Regular meetings and deadlines can help you stay motivated and productive, providing a sense of accountability.

Support and Encouragement:
Being part of a supportive community can provide emotional and creative encouragement.

Networking Opportunities:
You can connect with peers, mentors, and potential collaborators, expanding your professional network.

Exposure to Different Genres:
Depending on the type of group you join, engaging with writers that write in various genres can broaden your horizons and inspire new ideas.

Learning to Critique:
Giving feedback to others will hone your critical skills, which can be applied to your own work.

Summing It Up

While the critique group does not take the place of an editor, they do help you get to the point where you think you’re ready for submission. At this point, it’s always advisable to seek an editor to catch what you and your critique group missed. And there will definitely be something in your manuscript that wasn’t picked up on.

When considering joining a critique group, be sure the group includes both new and experienced writers. The experienced writers will help you hone your craft simply through their critiques of your work.

So, today’s tip: if you’re not already a member of a critique group, join one today.

MORE ON WRITING

Children’s Writing and Publishing Process – The Traditional Path
Children, the Environment, and Story Telling
Submitting Manuscript Queries – Be Specific and Professional

I’m a working children’s ghostwriter, rewriter, editor, and coach. I can help turn your story into a book you’ll be proud to be the author of, one that’s publishable and marketable.

OTHER HELP I OFFER:

HOW TO WRITE A CHILDREN’S FICTION BOOK
A DIY book to help you write your own children’s book.

PICTURE BOOK AND CHAPTER BOOK COACHING
Four to ten-week coaching programs.

WRITERS ON THE MOVE PRESS.
Self-publishing help for children’s authors.

You can contact me at: kcioffiventrice@gmail.com. Or give me a call at 347—834—6700. (Please leave a message- I’ll get back to you as soon as I can.)