How to write a review

Read, watch, or listen to the work more than once

The first time you read or watch something,get an overall sense of the work. Then think about its strengths and weaknesses. Read or watch it again to confirm your first impressions. This time, take careful notes. Be ready yo change your mind if a closer look sends you in a different direction.

Be informative and insightful

Be specific and relevant to the place you’re reviewing, and describe what other visitors are likely to experience. Highlight what makes the place special, and try to share something novel and new. From signature dishes to secret sale racks, reviews should reveal the unique experiences that places offer.   

Compare and contrast

Comparison can be a great way to develop your evaluation. Suppose you claim that a film has wonderful, original dialogue. Demonstrate this by sharing some dialogue from another film that has stiff, wooden, or clichéd dialogue. Use the contrast to prove your point.

Be respectful

 Not every experience with a place is going to be perfect. Sometimes you’ll want to share negative feedback. Even if you’re frustrated, make sure your criticism is constructive. Business owners often use feedback to improve their offerings.

Do not summarize the entire plot

Books, films, and television shows have beginnings, middles, and endings. People read and watch these works in part because they want to know what happens. Let them enjoy their stories. Provide a general idea of what happens, but don’t give away important secrets, especially the end.

Keep it real

Be authentic. Review your own experience, and explain why you liked or disliked the place. Try to be as accurate as possible, and include both the positive and negative aspects of your visit. 

Understand your audience

Reviews appear in all sorts of places. You'll find them in local and national publications, online, and also in specialized journals and neighbor hood newsletters. Research the places you hope to publish your review, and write accordingly. Think about what you need to explain. General readers will need more background information than readers of a publication aimed at experts.

Happy Learning!

Anamika Gupta

IAAN