This feedback group aims to give the writers hope, encouragement, community, and a way to become better writers.

The group is a safe place to present works-in-progress and get constructive feedback. It's not about showcasing the reviewer's expertise or belittling the author's work. Writers feel anxious when submitting works-in-progress.

This group inspires writers to finish and/or publish their work.

How it works:

Authors must register by Friday for the following Monday's review; the first 4 to sign up will present in the order of signing up. The fifth on the waitlist. Each author presenting will have 15 minutes to read their work and receive feedback from the group.  To ensure that your work is reviewed thoroughly, please follow these steps:

1. Only submit work that is in progress and up to a maximum of 1,500 words. This can include poems, scenes, parts of chapters, or short stories.

2. When it's your turn during the Zoom meeting:

  • Share your screen and introduce your work.

  • Specify the feedback you need.  This could include feedback on dialogue, character development, setting, clarity, ….

  • Read your work aloud.

3. Each group member will take turns giving constructive feedback based on the guidelines below.

  • Please use the hand-raising tool if you would like to comment on the reading.

  • Comments will be 2 minutes at maximum. The host will give you a 30-second warning.

4. The host reserves the right to mute anyone not following the guidelines at any time.

Guidelines

Giving Feedback:

1.     Imagine yourself on the receiving end of the critique.

If this were your work, how would you like to receive feedback?

2.     Say something positive.

Writing can always be improved, but there’s usually something good to point out - a great idea, a well-crafted phrase, solid organization, or a comprehensive grasp of the subject.

3.     Critique the writing, not the person.

Writing is personal, and it takes courage to share. Feedback should be honest, non-judgmental, and tactful. Put-downs are not allowed.

4.     Speak from your own perspective.

"My reaction to this was..." instead of "This part of the paper is..." to acknowledge different opinions. Remember to help each other improve by giving friendly and supportive feedback.

5.     Be specific.

Instead of simply pointing out that the characterization needs work, provide specific feedback on where and how the writer can improve the story's characters.

6.     Be respectful of genres outside of your own.

It's important to focus on the writing itself rather than the genre it falls under. Even if romance or crime novels aren't your personal cup of tea, try to keep an open mind and give the writing a fair shot.

7.     Others have their own style, morals, or values.

Don't impose your style or values on others. Critique to help authors find their unique voice and be their best.

Receiving Feedback:

1.     You, the Author, have the final say.

When you receive feedback, remember that you have the power to accept or reject it. Don't feel obligated to change something just because someone didn't like it. However, don't dismiss critiques too quickly - they can be helpful. Take a step back and revisit them later. You're in charge and should make the best decisions for you and your work.

2.     The group goal is to help you be a better writer.

Feedback from group members is meant to help improve your work. Use suggestions that you find helpful, but keep in mind that they are just opinions. Ultimately, it's your writing, so trust your gut on what to change.

3.     Put yourself in the critique members’ shoes.

When responding to someone's work, balancing being honest and considerate of their feelings can be challenging. This process can be difficult for both the reader and the writer.

4.     Listen during your critiques.

Listen more and defend less during the critique process. Avoid being defensive, and keep in mind that if multiple readers find something confusing, the problem lies with the writing. After critiques, ask questions and get clarification.

5.     Every reader is different.

Remember, feedback on your writing is not a personal critique but a response to the words you wrote. It's up to you to decide which feedback to act upon.

6.     What kind of feedback that you receive again and again?

Do readers suggest plot or imagery changes? Endings need work. Confusing words? Clear writing praised? Interesting intros? Note these to identify strengths and weaknesses.

7.     Take the good with the bad.

Writers can be overly critical of themselves and ignore positive feedback. It's important to accept compliments sincerely and shut off that voice that tells us they're insincere.