That's a good question

It's strange how much in the group develops by osmosis. It's only when someone new asks questions that this becomes evident. This blog is as good a place as any to record 'the way we work' when 'rules' would be too strong a term to describe it.

Question.

I see people provide written comments at the meeting, sometimes with every page covered in annotation. Is this required and what comments are acceptable?

Answer.

The basic rule is two things that worked well, two that can be improved. Many people choose to provide more, suggesting grammar and spelling corrections that would not be appropriate or a good use of time in the face to face setting of the meeting. In general writer's appreciate comments covering all aspects of their, including words of encouragement and positive reinforcement.

Question

Should a person providing comments assume that the piece submitted is for publication and address its suitability in their comments?

Answer.

Many people write for themselves and for the pleasure it gives them.

Others seek fame and some even fortune and openly declare such intent. Either way, it is a good idea when sending out work for comment to provide some idea of the target audience, e.g. young adult, mystery readers, cooking fiends, not for publication etc. and if the writer is seeking to have the work published, the potential markets considered/targeted.