Ask what kind of feedback is wanted
A writer polishing sentences needs different feedback from one testing a plot. Ask whether they want encouragement, structural notes or detailed corrections. Unrequested line editing can distract from a larger issue. Broad praise can feel supportive without helping the writer revise.
Name the reading experience you had: where you became curious, confused, impatient or emotionally engaged.
Use examples and explain the effect
Instead of saying a character is weak, point to a moment where their decision was difficult to understand. Describe what you expected and what information might clarify it. Avoid rewriting the story into the one you personally would have written.
Distinguish a factual correction from a preference. Your dislike of an ending does not necessarily mean the ending fails.
Leave the decision with the author
Offer a few prioritized observations rather than a wall of equally urgent changes. Include something that works and why. The writer can accept, adapt or decline your suggestions. In a public comment, stay with the text and avoid speculating about the author’s private life. A useful response helps the writer see choices, not feel cornered by a verdict.
