This isn’t new — in fact, I’ve known about this since high school when I attended a journalism workshop. I’m talking about the fundamental guidelines on writing critiques or reviews: “K-K-K”. Or, kick-kiss-kick kiss-kick-kiss. In other words, something positive, then negative, then positive again.
Let’s suppose you’re blogging about another blog. Start off with what you think is pleasing about that site. Highlight the good stuff: What makes it an enjoyable experience reading its posts? Is the design a delight to look at? Is the sidebar (or sidebars, as the case may be) organized cleanly? Does the blog make a whole lot of sense?
Then proceed to what, in your opinion, is that blog’s weak points. What do you think is wrong with it? Perhaps it’s replete with misspellings? It’s confusing to navigate? Whatever it is, be constructive, not derogatory. It’s rarely ever a good idea to be excessively critical of anything. After all, there is always room for change, don’t you think?
Which brings me to the last “K”. This isn’t for reprising the first part, nor for adding to it. In my experience, this finale is for presenting opportunities for improvement. Or a way for you to express hope or encouragement. End on a positive note by offering suggestions that are sound.
Speaking of review-writing, the You Got Blogged! review-a-blog competition is now on its 4th week. I’d like to invite you to to blog about a Mindanao blog. To get you off the ground, why don’t you take a look at the following blogs and try to write a review of any or all of them?
- Barangay Mindanao
- Davao City: A Promise Fulfilled
- Digital Detours
- The Pidjanga of Mainit, Surigao del Norte
- Tiene Ara Zamboangueña
While you’re at it, please feel free to write a review of any of my blogs:
- Ang Dabawenyo
- IT talks!
- Mission: 6-Pack Abs
- this one!
Please click here for the competition mechanics.
12:13 am on 25 Aug 2007
It was great to meet the movers and shakers of Davao blogging.. and of the Philippines… and the world. Mark my words, davao will be a hub. A great and vibrant community you have there.
Thanks a lot. It was great to meet you guys. It just strengthens my conviction that aside from the fresh air, fruits and nice climate that davao has, it’s you, the people who give the heart of the island.
It was fun talking with your group. and God bless on the summit.
Salamat na marami. Sa uulitin.
PS: Please say hi to Bro. Momong for me.
5:26 pm on 25 Aug 2007
@Jun — It was great finally meeting you! Next time you’re in Davao, let’s do something more fun.
Thanks for your kind words, Jun, they’re very inspiring!
1:17 am on 26 Aug 2007
blogie, thank you for the post. i noticed that your k-k-k is kick-kiss-kick. When i was under mr. dodie cañete of the toastmasters club diyan sa davao, he told us that k-k-k is kiss-kick-kiss: kasi positive-negative-positive di ba? the kiss is more positive than the kick. hehe.
by the way, i still have one more exam. lagi kasi no class ang monday kaya lagi na lang na-mo-move ang exam ko.
pag ok na, i will start writing for u got blogged…thank you and God bless.
4:54 am on 26 Aug 2007
Great post Blogs. I like it and may it guide those who want to join the review-a-blog contest too.
8:52 am on 26 Aug 2007
@felmar — Thanks for pointing it out! It was a typo.
@Janette — Thanks!!
12:05 am on 1 Sep 2007
Hello! My firs time to comment here:) I nominated you as a blog of the Day! Check my blog here;
http://yennygirl.com/?p=737
1:51 am on 1 Sep 2007
@Yen — Thanks very much!!!