New writing workshop requirements

[Islander]

Nah, they can't mean that, can they?

Anyway... letting people wait two weeks before they can post in the review room makes it more likely they're serious and willing to lay down the work. As long as it doesn't scare away new users, I think it's great.

[Banzai]

The 20 post requirement is a one off. But you must make two constructive critiques for each piece of your own work you post.

[clockwise]

The 20 post requirement is a one off. But you must make two constructive critiques for each piece of your own work you post.

Thanks for clearing that up, I was pretty worried for a moment, there xD.

[Pea]

When you make critiques, how in-depth do they need to be? I'm not a very good reviewer though I try, if my reviews aren't up to scratch can I still post something for reviewal?

[Banzai]

A good rule of thumb for reviews is this three-step approach:

1. Identify problems
2. Give specific examples
3. Give suggestions as to how those problems can be solved

That's not the only way to do a constructive review, but I think it's by far the easiest. And having looked at your reviews, I think you're on the right lines.

[mammamaia]

or, if you don't see any problems, or don't feel qualified to point any out, at least give a 'meaty' overview of the piece, noting what you think of it, how it you think it will impact on other readers...

in other words, don't just toss out a single-sentence bit of blather, to meet your quota... ;-)

[frisbie]

I have carried out a number of criticisms but have no idea how to post a short story in the crime section.
I would also like to contribute to Writing Forum but have had trouble with internet payments and would like to pay by cheque. Is it possible and if so what is the address?

[Banzai]

You should contact Daniel directly (i.e. by PM) regarding the contribution question.

As for posting your work for review, you need to have a) been a member for over 14 days, and b) have made 20 posts in total (not including Word Games), in addition to the requirement of two constructive reviews.

[Cogito]

Folks:

"Why can't I post?" posts and threads will be deleted without reply.

Please read the Forum Rules and the other links in the Important Links box on the site home page!

Seriously, if you knew enoughj to post in this thread, then there really is no excuse.

[cs2212]

I just noticed this when I tried to post a piece of work today.

Out of general courtesy I had reviewed a few items before posting anything and I also found the forum useful to get some ideas to develop my first chapter before posting anything anyway. But I find the idea of actively blocking people from posting work or contributing pretty unfriendly really.

I understand the general concept of posting at least two constructive reviews to each piece of work to stop people just putting things up and then going, but all the additional arbitrary requirements dont contribute anything constructive to the forum. I could just as easily post forty pieces of drivel as five useful replies over two weeks. Obviously its up to those who manage the forum what they choose to do, but while I think reviewing more than you post is just courteous, the whole 'banning people' thing is entirely unwelcoming.

[funkybassmannick]

I just noticed this when I tried to post a piece of work today.

Out of general courtesy I had reviewed a few items before posting anything and I also found the forum useful to get some ideas to develop my first chapter before posting anything anyway. But I find the idea of actively blocking people from posting work or contributing pretty unfriendly really.

I understand the general concept of posting at least two constructive reviews to each piece of work to stop people just putting things up and then going, but all the additional arbitrary requirements dont contribute anything constructive to the forum. I could just as easily post forty pieces of drivel as five useful replies over two weeks. Obviously its up to those who manage the forum what they choose to do, but while I think reviewing more than you post is just courteous, the whole 'banning people' thing is entirely unwelcoming.

The requirement of two weeks and 20 posts is there so that people have some time to get used to the community here. It's different than other online writing communities, so it takes a while.

Unfortunately, you need rules to keep order, and consequences so people follow them. Follow the rules, and no unwelcoming attitude comes your way.