As we get closer to starting this challenge and choosing the stories we want to read, I thought I'd start this thread mainly for the people who consider giving feedback one of the hardest parts of the challenge.
Sometimes as a reader it can be tricky trying to figure out what it is that you'd like to say about the chapter or story you have just read. Nine out of ten times when the question of feedback comes up in threads, people say "I don't leave feedback because I don't want to sound dumb." or "I don't know what to say."
The truth is, feedback is really the life blood for most of the writers of fan fiction. We don't get paid for doing this and most of us write because we love to but what really keeps a good portion of us going is hearing from the people who are actually reading our stuff. Everyone gets excited when they see they got a review. I don't care whether you say they mean nothing to you or not. And it does make us happy to see a "Can't wait for the next chapter!" but most of the time, writers are looking for a little more than that. I know, speaking personally, if I've just posted a chapter with a huge reveal or plot twist, I want to hear the reader's take on it. Whether it be good or bad and I think most of us feel the same way.
As part of this challenge, you are required to leave feedback on all chapters as you read them and one thing that will not count as feedback is the phrase "Great job! Can't wait for the next chapter!!" These are just things that I do:
When I am leaving feedback for someone, I try to think back to what I enjoyed most in the chapter and make sure to mention that. Sometimes it's a huge plot point, and sometimes it's something more subtle. Just to let the writer know you read it and were paying attention. If I find a line especially poignant, I may quote it and say something about that as well.
I also like the writer to get to know me as a reader, so I sometimes include personal information if it relates to something I read in the story. I have met many people I now consider friends just from doing this! You'd be surprised at how quickly you can make a connection with someone just by giving them feedback.
We as writers also realize that sometimes there isn't much to say i.e. the filler chapters. That's when a "that was good" might suffice. But even then, there is probably something more you could say.
The hardest thing to do is give a negative comment, but again we all take the good with the bad and in order for us to grow, we have to hear what didn't work as well as what did. When leaving constructive criticism, it's important to make sure you mention at least one good thing first before mentioning what needs work. If all you do from one chapter to the next is list all the flaws in the story it will detract the author from writing or even wanting to read what you have to say. Even if there's not one thing you can find good about the story, be creative and think of something! "I like the title," or "where did you come up with the girls' name? It's so original"...anything like that would work!
Also authors should be responding to the feedback they get! Anyone who knows me (and most of you do lol) KNOW this is my biggest pet peeve ever!! I will stop reading a story if the author doesn't respond to their reviews. Sometimes I will actually peak at their reviews just to see if they respond to them before even opening a story. I just think it's rude not to respond to someone who not only took the time to read one of your chapters but also managed to leave you feedback. It takes five seconds to type the word thank you! Actually less than that unless you're typing with one finger. lol
Okay getting off my soapbox.
I'd love it if people post their tips and suggestions as well as maybe some examples of feedback people have left you that you found really helpful or motivating!
Author
Topic: The art of giving feedback - reading challenge 2014 (Read 4560 times)