Tactful Criticism

[IntHellsing]

When you're reviewing something that has great potential, but clearly hasn't been spell checked... is it appropriate or acceptable to point out to the author that the errors make something difficult to read?

If so, how does one go about pointing it out without being completely rude?

I feel like it's rude to point out someone's mistake without being asked to check something for errors, but at the same time, I wonder if perhaps the author is simply unaware of the fact that they're making mistakes?

[Apparently, rules such as the fact that the past tense of "thrust" is still "thrust" (not "thrusted") are, in fact, NOT common knowledge ]

Thoughts? Opinions?

Edited January 22, 2008 by IntHellsing

[RikuDrak]

Don't feel that way, especially if someone puts something into a public place (like the internet). If someone doesn't want criticism, they shouldn't show it to anyone. I find it rather asinine that people these days want to publish something, but don't want anyone to point out their mistakes. Completely ridiculous if you ask me.

That said, if you don't want to come off as "rude" (although undoubtedly some people will feel the sheer questioning of their "brilliance" is rude), tell them what you liked about the story first. Warm them up, make them feel like you're a fan. Then politely mention that, as a suggestion, you think it would be better if they spellcheck next time they publish something because it makes the the text a little difficult to read.

Something like this:

I really loved the way you had [character one] as the narrator, especially when you showed his/her emotions so well. And I definitely think you kept the whole story in character. Great job!

As a suggestion, though, perhaps next time you should go back and spell check to avoid confusion, as some of the errors you had were slightly difficult to read.

[Keith Inc.]

Yeah, i agree. If it's posted, they want it read.

If they didn't put one of those notes on it, 'positive comments only' or such, then it should be fair game to point out anything that makes it harder to read, less likely that you'll be back for other chapters or other works by this writer.

Of course, if they do put 'positive comments only' on a story, i tend to skip it. Or 'I cann't spell, Deel with it.'