User:Stevenarntson/Workshop

Writing workshops are open critique sessions, and are a standard facet of the writing life, used to improve pieces currently in draft form. Students studying writing at universities will experience the workshop atmosphere many times, as will writers who form writing groups. The workshop, although a bit stressful, can be an extremely informative and rewarding experience. In my courses, a workshop session typically lasts about 25 minutes.

pre-workshop

 * Sign up for a time slot.
 * Make copies--one for each class member.

workshop

 * The author will read the piece aloud.
 * Class members will write notes on their copies, praising and criticizing as appropriate.
 * The class will discuss the piece. Discussion should be honest and critical, but also polite and sensitive—-remember, this is a piece of writing on which someone worked intensely, but they also want to improve it.
 * If you have stated your opinion, wait for others to voice theirs. If you haven’t spoken, speak.
 * The writer may not join the conversation, but will take notes.

Workshops are a valuable way to learn how a number of people understood your piece—if 16 people misinterpreted your message, this will be good to know as you rewrite. Conversely, if everyone liked parts of what you accomplished, you'll also know what to leave alone.