Write Better: Tips and tricks

PSA for Editors: IDing Red Flags

If you are giving critiques, you sort of develop this sixth sense when it comes to writers. Dozens of tiny little factors influence you to the point where you just know something's amiss. But when someone asks it can be incredibly difficult to verbalize how you reached your conclusion.

Still, there are some red flags to be mindful of. Most writers are aware of what they want, even if they won't admit it, but a small handful don't know that, so it's best to handle all with care. The thing is, you don't know for sure which category your writer is in.

Be cautious when you find a red flag(s), but not dismissive. Use your judgment. Take a minute to research the writer. Just because someone shows one or two flags doesn't mean that they're out to waste your time.

If someone does have a flag, feel free to PM them and find out more about what they want from you.

JUST SAY NO TO RED FLAGGERS.

Well, not exactly. Politely say no.

I know on Wattpad people sometimes ask for payments BEFORE they do their work. If the person paid you and they're displaying all kinds of red flag traits, sorry, but that's on you. You entered into an agreement and now you've got to uphold that.

But if you didn't accept payment yet, never asked for any at all, or they failed to follow your rules, then you have every right to decline their request. Check out their story. If it's not up your alley, politely decline.

You don't want to insult the writer and you don't want to accuse them of anything.

"I'm sorry, but I can't give this story a critique at this time." Is fine.

If you have an explanation that isn't insulting or demeaning, you can include it. Maybe it's not a genre you feel comfortable with. Maybe it's a lot better-written than your abilities as an editor and you don't think you'll be able to crit it but you can offer a comment instead. Maybe you already accepted ten requests beforehand and can't take on any more.

Thing is, you do NOT have to detail your reason for declining if they press you about it (again, especially if it might hurt their feelings unnecessarily). Just as writers are free to accept or reject your suggestions, you are free to accept or reject their requests.

So, here are some red flags writers wave. Again, be cautious but not dismissive.

1.They ask you to critique/edit an old version of something or an unfinished story that hasn't been modified in over six months.

If they haven't put any effort into it over the past six months, do you really think the words of a stranger telling them that their writing could be improved here, here, and there, are going to get them to revive it?

If there's a newer version out but they're asking about the old, it is highly likely that you are going to tell them things that they already know/have changed. It makes your critique 100% easier to dismiss (because it's based on old writing), it doesn't help the writer to be told to fix what they already fixed, and it wastes your time.

Caution: Sometimes people re-write old stories. Or plan to, anyway. Sometimes that one critique is enough to make them turn back. In any event, a PM here clears this situation up.

2.When you ask them what they want you to focus on, they have nothing in mind.

Writers with the potential to be good/great, know that they aren't perfect. We all have weaknesses and we tend to, deep down, know what those weaknesses are (or at least we can ID someone who does it better).