Critique Groups

Compiled by Pam Toth (1995)

A critique group is made up of three or more writers with similar skills and writing interests. Its purpose is for the improvement, support and encouragement of its members. They usually meet every week or two, depending on schedules and writing output. Critiquing may be given orally or in writing, as the writer reads his work aloud or hands around hard copies to be read during the meeting or later. The purpose of critiquing is to help the writer improve her skills, not to knock her down a peg. Comments should be honest, but tactful, specific and impersonal. Solutions may be offered. The person being critiqued must try not to be defensive and the one critiquing must understand the writer's ultimate right to accept or reject suggestions.