Amazing tips and ways to find a super writing buddy + writing partner
I used to do a lot of ocean swimming.
This involved getting up early and swimming across a calm bay behind the beach break.
Certainly I could have done this alone.
But I rarely did because I’d imagined sharks out the corner of my eye while I swam!
Instead I went with a buddy each week and loved it.
However, writing can be a bit like this too.
Certainly sitting down to write an autobiography, memoir, biography or other life-story project can put you on edge.
Indeed sometimes you need someone by your side to take the plunge and keep going.
And that is where a writing critique partner can help …
What is a writing critique partner?
A writing critique partner is a fellow writer who you swap work with for feedback and encouragement.
Preferably this writing buddy shares your genre and a similar audience.
And it is best if you are at the same skill level or a little higher to push one another along.
Interestingly some writers have more than one partner, each with different strengths.
But importantly writing critique partners aren’t co-writers or beta readers.
Certainly writing buddies are not essential but they can be very helpful.
Indeed some writing partners become long-time friends!
Related article – Writing tips: The ultimate guide of life-story tips for new writers
Why a writing buddy is helpful
Finding a writing critique partner has many benefits.
Firstly, a writing buddy can help you get a fresh perspective on your writing and help you improve.
Secondly, a writing partner offers an extra level of accountability to achieving your dreams and goals.
And finally a writing critique partner can encourage and motivate you to strive a little higher with your writing and mindset.
But most importantly, all these benefits should flow equally both ways.
That is to say you must do for your writing partner what they do for you.
Related article – Write together: Writing with a loved one as a co-author or writing partner
How to work with a writing partner
Preparation can make working with a writing critique partner productive and enjoyable.
First up discuss what type of help you are each seeking.
For example: assistance coming up with ideas, critiquing the big picture, looking closely at sentences and word choices, spotting spelling and grammar errors, or final proofreading.
Next decide how much work to share.
So will you swap pages, chapters, sections or complete manuscripts?
Also decide how often – daily, weekly, fortnightly, monthly?
And how to offer feedback – in person, phone call, video call, email or something else?
Finally, it can be smart to start with a trial period and review the partnership regularly.
Related article – Writing accountability: Personal accountability + accountability partners
Other writing critique partner considerations
Finding a writing critique partner can be like dating!
Certainly all writing partners are not created equally.
So focus on finding (and being) a writing buddy who is:
- Respectful
- Truthful
- Compassionate
- Helpful
- Positive
- Punctual
Related article – Life story writing coach: 3 little-known ways they can help your story writing
Where to find a writing buddy
In today’s world there are many options for finding a writing critique partner.
Start close to home by asking friends or family members who write.
Next investigate local libraries, bookshops, writing groups, workshops, conferences or festivals.
Or head online to find a writing buddy via writing websites, social media or message boards.
For example, here are a few options I discovered that could be worth investigating:
- Critique Circle – Critique a couple of stories to gain enough credits to submit your own story for review. Started in 2003 and free to join.
- Beta readers and critique partners – A private Facebook group with thousands of members “helping each other to be better writers”.
- Critique Partner Matchup – A free and informal Google group started by bestselling young adult fiction writer Margaret Stiefvater.
Related article – Ask Nicola Q&A: Your most burning book questions about types of editors
Final say: Critique partner
A writing critique partner can be a mega help to create a successful life-story project.
However, it is a two-way street checking each other’s work.
Certainly a partnership works best if expectations are clear from the beginning.
And you both remember your manners!
So dive in and find a writing buddy close to home or online today.
Happy writing!
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Your say
Are you looking for a writing critique partner? I’d love to hear your thoughts. Send me an email or leave a reply in the comments section at the end of this article to connect.
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This article first appeared on the website Forever Young Autobiographies.com.
