First Impressions Critique Swap

Welcome to a unique and fun swap (I hope)!

First impressions are important, especially if you are a writer. If you would like your work—not your personality—critiqued in a supportive, constructive environment, join a “First Impressions” swap.

Here's how it works: each person will email the SAME short story, poem, or nonfiction article to two partners. Each 'reader' will critique the piece for any--or all--of the following points:

• What you liked about the piece, even if it's not your genre. You can comment on the word choices, phrases, sentence length, does it engage your senses, etc.
• What parts, if any, confused you due to poor punctuation, grammar, character discrepancies, etc.
• Did the beginning hook you? Did the ending fit or did it leave loose ends.
• What its shelflife is (would you reread this again)

Email your story, poem or article as a .doc, .docx, .jpg, or pdf attachment. If it's short enough, you can send it in the body of the email.

You do not have to be a writer, an editor, or understand literary things. All you need to be is a reader--after all, the writer is receiving the 'reader''s' first impression. At the same time, keep in mind that a 'perfect' critique isn't always the best. Pointing out some areas that need work may go a long way in helping the writer and the next reader.

So, if you have a story, a poem, or an article, and are curious as to how it might be received, don’t delay. Sign up today!

Newbies are welcome to join.

If you have any questions or concerns, comment below and I will try to incorporate them into the swap description.