Tips for critiquing the short story Options

[Cleo_Serapis]

The following checklist is a reference tool for giving feedback to the writer of the short story. Sources: http://www.author-network.com, 'Author Network - www.author-network.com - resources for writers.'

http://www.writerseyes.org/
Check out their Inspiration Station for name, feature and genre ideas at: http://www.writerseyes.org/pbuster.html

DO use care and consideration when critiquing another's work. The writer is putting their trust in you to make a valued criticism, and offer alternative suggestions if weaknesses are observed.

1. Setting

If the setting is a real place, is the writer true to it, having done enough research on it?
If a fictional place, does it seem believable?
Is it authentic and well planned?
Can the reader picture it without confusion?


2. Plot

Is it clearly/easily defined in the story?
Does it develop simply and hook the reader in?
Does it lack credibility in places?
Does it appear contrived?
Does it start well, but lose force or direction?
Does it hold reader interest to the end but then disappoint?
Is the flow/rhythm progressive and even?


3. Theme/Pace

Does the story start and stay at a slow pace?
Does the pace vary from section to section?
Do minor issues detract from an otherwise steady pace?
Does reader interest waiver from time to time?
Is the story a page-turner throughout?


4.  Characters

Is the 'central' character introduced at the start?
Can you empathize or sympathize with him/her?
Do their names match their personalities?
Do the characters feel 'real'? Can you 'relate' to them?
Is the viewpoint expressed by too many characters so teh reader does not get to know any 'one' intimately?
Are the characters believable, but could use improvement?
Are the characters are well laid out and true to life?
Are the reader's sympathies instantly engaged?

4. Dialogue

Do the characters all sound the same, making it difficult to differenciate between them? Try reading aloud - can the reader tell when the dialogue changes?
Is the reader amassed in the dialogue, or is it sketchy?
Are there places where the dialogue makes no sense or confuses the reader?
Is the dialogue authentic to the setting?
Is much revealed about the characters through dialog?
Does the dialogue sparkle, adding the right overall dimension?

5. Structure

Is the time span feasible for the setting?
Do the actions run in sequence?
Do flashbacks seem relevant and well placed?
Is the plot supported and authentic throughout?

6. Suspense and Conflicts

Can the reader predict what will happen next?
Does the story move well from action to action?
Do the conflicts seem authentic or artificial?

7. Ending

Is the ending concise or does it go in different directions?
Does it need explanation?
Do the setting, plot, theme, characters, structure and dialogue work effectively?
Does it fall flat from reader expectation?

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For additional critiquing tips, please visit:

The Short Story Group at

http://www.shortstorygroup.com/critique.htm