Writing a novel is an arduous task that requires removing many layers of chaff to get to the core of good story telling. A critique group is something no beginning writer should be without. Your critique group can help you with resources like writing conferences, professional organizations and writing coaches. You can share the highs and lows of the process with like-minded people as you write your way to publication. Here are the six requirements of a great critique group:
Meet regularly
A lot of groups meet monthly. One of the drawbacks to this is progress. Many people find it’s much better to meet at least every other week, that way if you miss a meeting, you don’t go a couple of months with no feedback. The critique group I’m in meets weekly. We want to push ourselves to stay on task so that we can meet our writing goals.
- Choose your group wisely
Whether the group consists of beginners or published authors the members should all be at the same level. The genres of the other group members don’t really matter because story is story so the main principles apply to all. What you do want is a group where people are open-minded, kind-hearted and honest. It does you no good if someone tells you your story is wonderful if your main character’s arc goes nowhere, even if the character is hilarious.
- Have a page limit
In a two hour period, six writers can each read ten pages and get a verbal critique, if everyone sticks to business and there is no personal conversation. It would take longer if a group hands out copies and does written critiques as well.
- Compliment strengths
Find something you like about what was just read and start off with a compliment. Offer your critique and finish with another compliment. Sandwich your honest critique with kind words that showcase the good attributes of the writer being critiqued.
- Practice discernment
As writers, we pour our hearts into our words. What is dear to someone’s heart may not fit well with the rest of the story. Every critique must be put forth with respect in a manner that helps improve the craft of writing. Feedback should not overload a person. If someone is starting to become confused from many different opinions, see if you can find a common thread to comment on, or say you agree with a point someone else has already mentioned.
- Decide if the critique rings true
Write down all of the things offered by your critique group members. Look at them the next time you sit at your computer to work on your story. If someone has offered a suggestion that is not in line with your core concept you can wad up the paper and toss it in the trash. Before you do, make sure that you are being honest with yourself regarding the improvement of your craft. 
My critique group – The Tuesday Writers has been my best writing asset. Through this group I found my writing coach, Joyce Sweeney as well as group of dedicated writers who have become good friends. To read more on the workings of a great critique group check out this blog post I wrote.
