How To Comment On Your Fellow Students' Papers

Write your comments in response to the questions/suggestions on this sheet. You don't have to limit yourself to simply responding to these, of course.

Remember that the tables will soon be turned; the commentator will be commented on. Be honest, fair, thorough, but not nasty. It often helps to phrase comments as a question.

As in reading a book, reading an essay is an exercise in finding an argument and evaluating it. The author's task is to make process as easy as possible without sacrificing art, intelligence, or strength of argument. Your comments should help them toward this elusive goal.

(Note to writers: Please turn in the comments with your revised and rough draft. Pay attention to the comments carefully. It is sometimes difficult to accept criticism. But remember: writing is communication; you won't know if your reader understands you without feedback.)

My 10 Point Program

1) Read the first paragraph Do you know already where the paper is headed? Where?

2) Continue reading. Write a question mark at every point where you get confused, where you have to back up to understand a point, or are wondering where you are heading.

3)Does the conclusion tie the argument together? Does it follow from the evidence and introduction? Does it have oomph?

4) Can you easily summarize the argument? Are the purpose and audience clear?

5) Does the evidence support the argument? Is counter-evidence considered?

6) Do the paragraphs contain a single clear point? Do they flow logically from one to another?

7)You don't have to be a proofreader, but do mention if there are a lot of grammatical or mechanical problems.

8) Does the paper have a clear thesis/argument? Is it substantial or petty? Does it make sense?

9) Engage the argument, issues, and evidence. Explain why you agree or disagree.

10) What more could the writer do to improve the paper?