Comments can make or destroy a day for writers depending on their tone and intent. I recently wrote an article for Searchwarp in which I addressed the topic of How to Handle Commentators Who Disagree With Your Writing (http://searchwarp.com/swa303385.htm).
In the comments from authors, it was mentioned that I should write an article on How To Leave Constructive Comments. I began thinking how to do this since I respect the opinions left as comments on my articles. So what makes a comment worthwhile?
How does a person leave a constructive comment without offending the author? What are some steps that one should take to ensure that their comment is taken how it is meant? How do we give tips to improve or disagree with an article in a constructive manner? Probably the most important thing I can stress is that you are commenting on the content not the author. If you remember that principle it will help when you begin to comment. Here are some other reminders in providing constructive comments:
Don't Point Out Problems Unless You Have an Alternative Solution
It is very easy to destroy someone else's thoughts or beliefs, but if you can not offer any better solutions, then you should not type at all. It is like in life, don't criticize someone else's work unless you can offer a better solution.
Remember that the article was not written by a machine, the person who wrote it has feelings too
This is where the content reminder is most important. It is easy to attack a person through a comment, especially since you can not see them face to face. Use that test, if the person was standing right in front of you-would you still say it? More than likely the author feels strongly about the topic about which they wrote and your comment needs to respect those feelings.
Use Specific Examples
Instead of commenting badly on an author's grammar or usage, give examples of improvement. Instead of saying "I could hardly understand your point because of bad grammar or rambling," say "paragraph 3 is too wordy and I was having a hard time following your point." Or "There is a grammar mistake in such and such sentence." If they misuse a word over and over, tell them the exact word. Don't make generic statements. Also know for sure if you are going to criticize. I have seen examples where people have attacked a person's sentence structure and not only were there no mistakes in the sentence structure, they misspelled words while doing so. So just think before you offer criticisms. Most authors like hearing ways in which they can improve on their writing, but tread lightly on the tone of the comment.
Always Start With A Positive
If an article has moved you to post a comment, then more than likely there is a positive you can find. Even if it is something like "Your article was very moving." Then go into the constructive issues you would like to address. Even just thanking a writer for addressing a specific topic can be complimentary.
Only say something that you would want said to you
The golden rule is something that applies to all areas of life. Leaving comments is no different. It is important to think how you would feel if someone left the comment you left. If you would find it helpful or thought provoking-it is worth leaving. If you found it hurtful or demeaning-maybe you should delete and try again.
These tips are not to discourage you from leaving constructive comments. It is just designed to make disagreements and conversations on the web become more cordial. I always say that the best thing about the internet is to bring together different views, opinions, conversations all to one place. Comments allow this to happen. So enjoy talking with the authors, but remember basic respect.
