How to write an effective review [Ian's Messy Desk]

Darren has posted an assignment as part of his project; to write a review of some kind. I’m not going to write a review. Instead, I’m going to give you some tips, or a template, if you will, for writing an effective review.

I have written a few reviews in my day —you can find my name listed as a previous contributor to GadgetMe! Magazine. I prefer looking at three questions when writing a review:

  1. What is the product/service supposed to do?
  2. How well does the item do what it is supposed to do?
  3. Is it good value?

After you’ve evaluated the product and come up with answers to those three questions, you can write the review.

  • Start with an introductory paragraph: I like to identify a problem and how the product is supposed to solve the problem.
  • Outline the product features: bullet points work well here. Only include key features, not the entire list.
  • Address the pros and cons: the standard approach is to list the positive factors first and the negatives second.
  • Finish by summarizing your opinion: make your opinion clear. This is not a place to hesitate or waffle. Readers want to know what you think.

Readers are looking for opinions. Reviews are an effective way to attract readers.

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Original post here: Ian McKenzie

18 July 2007 | Words, Writing, blogging | Comments

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