How and Where You Can Get Feedback on Your Writing
For many people, the writing process is lonely. It involves spending a lot of time in your own head, quietly focused on the story you’re trying to tell. This is a necessary part of being a writer, but that doesn’t mean you should never talk about your writing with others. In fact, getting feedback is an essential part of improving as a writer. It provides constructive criticism, help with problems when you have them, and support and encouragement.
But how and where can you get quality feedback on your work?
1. Join an online writer’s community.
One of the easiest ways to get support from other writers is to join an online writing community. There are many to choose from, whether you’re looking for a community to be part of or a serious critique of your work. Online communities offer the convenience of being able to chat with another writer at any time and a diversity of perspectives.
2. Find an offline writer’s group or club.
While online communities are convenient, some people prefer to give and receive feedback in person. This is where writer’s clubs come in. You can get personal feedback on your work while also connecting with other writers. Browse the Internet to discover local writing groups or organizations, and reach out to any that sound like a good fit for you. You might also check with any local universities to learn about what writing communities they have on campus.
3. Get paid feedback on your work.
Sometimes an expert opinion is just what you need. When free critiques from writing communities aren’t helping, consider reaching out to an editor or writing coach for professional feedback. An experienced editor or coach can provide you with suggestions for improving your text overall and specific recommendations for improvement. Plus, you know that a professional will read your work carefully and with a professional eye.
4. Take a writing class.
Taking a course on creative writing is a guaranteed method for getting feedback on your work. Through writing workshops and peer review, you will receive constructive criticism and other suggestions for improvement. You might also learn useful creative writing techniques that you can apply in your own work.
Whatever way you choose to get feedback, make sure you’re sharing your work with other writers. You won’t learn to be a better writer without hearing what other people think about your work. The key is to listen to the critiques, accept them, and use them to improve.
