The purpose of this forum...gaining reviews. But though the simple 'I like this' or 'what an interesting update' are nice, they don't help the author improve. Personally, I adore the reviews that tell me exactly what they thought - even when they're pointing out all of the mistakes I shouldn't have made. *ducks*

Here's some tips for leaving reviews - if you have more or want to discuss, go on and post!

-- Explain. If you think the story was funny, how about saying what you thought was funny? Or perhaps the certain line that was. Same thing with saying 'I think this story stinks'. Now, I'm not encouraging you to say that...but if you feel like a story shouldn't have been posted due to errors explain why.

-- Manners. Be polite, even as you're giving critique. If you think the person really needs a beta don't say 'UGH YOUR WRITING STINKS GO AND GET A LIFE!!!' Say something along the lines of 'I really don't think this story is up to posting at the moment. Perhaps you should get a beta, or find someone to proofread this...'

--Try not to open your review with a negative comment. Surely there was something that was good. Find it, mention it and then move on towards with the critique.

--For the love of the sock - do not review only to bash a story because of the pairing or some of the things that occur inside. It's one of those occasions where it's fine to walk away without a review...but even a short comment is appreciated. Just don't bash a fic because of those reasons.

Got anything to add?

Something I've done that I regret doing: Taking it out on some poor, random person when you've been seeing the same mistake over and over, and they just happen to be the latest author. For example, there has to be a nice way to say that, on sheer strength of their writing, they should probably be getting their comma key fixed. Once I figure out what that way is, I'll tell y'all.

Yeah, I know what you mean. I can name two of the BIGGEST authors on this site, and well...I can't bring myself to spit out the concrit that they need. Really need. I always say 'Oh what a great chapter.' or 'Jareth really is being deceptive here...'

Oh, no. My problem is that I say EXACTLY what they deserve. And I do not limit myself to merely mentioning that it was bad, either. I know of several stories that stopped after I reviewed them.

"...just as I can be so cruel..."

I'm getting better of giving crit. I just have to make myself sit down and do it.

The problem is, is that I'm really nitpicky, so if you let me, I'll point out every single little thing which may be mildly wrong. Kinda embarassing, but then again....it helps the author at times.

(This was Kore - sorry...)

Don't worry... The criticism you gave me was very helpful... Criticism is better than praise any day....

I rather believe that in order to be able in giving good feedback, you need to say both, that which is good and which is not good. Constructive criticism should offer the writer means to know what is good in her/his work and what needs to be improved. It doesn't have to be too precise, unless, of course, you necessarily creave to write 2 page long descriptions (and for an author, this is fantastic review, of course) on all the little details you spot.

But in ff.net, many people write just for the pleasure of writing. Sometimes I've made the mistake that (thinking I'm making a service) I write a long feedback, pointing all the little things I think might be something the writer might want to check out. And then I receive an angry reply message, stating "Well, thanks. But I don't aspire to become a professional writer!"

I do aspire to be a pro, so you can come and give me all the details you want, it'd be appreciated like you wouldn't believe..... Mysterious Ways is the one that is the longest, and is written in my usual style, if you're looking for something to read, please, do. I get frustrated about how unresponsive the readers are. I want to know what I'm doing wrong!!!!!!

Most people appreciate a good concrit review.. i know i do. If someone goes to that much trouble and reads a fic in that much detail they should be commended. In my humble opinion anyway..

I don't aspire to be an author but i do want to write something decent.. I love concrit.. hints.. ;)

My problem whit reviewing is that my english is bad, and if i shall give a complicated review i woud need to look up many words and I still get the grammar wrong(dam english language why cant everyone speak swedish?!;p ) I know I'm lasy but i am trying to change, cross my heart and all that.

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