Whether you’re crafting a novel, an article, or a personal essay, feedback is crucial for growth. But let’s face it, not all feedback is helpful.
Some critiques hit the mark, others feel off-base, and the rest leave you more confused than ever. So how do you filter the noise and focus on what truly matters?
Why Feedback is Important
Feedback isn’t just about fixing errors. It offers a fresh perspective that helps writers identify blind spots they might not notice themselves. For example, a beta reader might point out a plot hole or a confusing scene that slipped through your editing process.
Accepting critiques helps separate you from your work—a vital skill for long-term growth. It allows you to refine your ideas further and sharpen your execution without getting caught up in your emotions and biases.
Why Filtering Feedback is Necessary
Not all feedback is created equal, and that’s why filtering is crucial.
First, all feedback is worth listening to, but not all are worth following. Some critiques might push you in a direction that doesn’t align with your goals. This can dilute the essence of your work.
Second, filtering prevents overwhelm. Trying to address every piece of feedback can leave you in an editing loop or with disjointed writing. By filtering, you focus on revisions that matter, rather than superficial fixes.
Lastly, filtering helps balance subjectivity. What one reader dislikes might be what another reader loves. You decide which opinions make sense for the story.
How to Filter Feedback Effectively
Here are ways you can choose which feedback works best for you.
1. Clarify your goals.
Before you even seek feedback, take a moment to clarify your purpose. What are you trying to achieve with your work? Are you aiming for emotional resonance, clarity, or entertainment? This makes it easier to recognize feedback that aligns with your vision.
For example, if you’re writing a thriller, a suggestion to add a romantic subplot might not serve your story.
2. Know your sources.
Not all feedback carries the same weight. Understanding who your sources are and what they bring to the table helps you prioritize their input.
Feedback from a professional editor, for example, will often focus on technical and structural issues. It is actionable, making it more valuable. Feedback from peers can provide insights into story flow and content clarity. Feedback from general readers offers an overall impression of how your work lands.
3. Categorize feedback.
Breaking feedback into categories can make it more manageable. By focusing on essential changes and thoughtful suggestions, you can filter out the noise and focus on what’s useful.
First, identify essential changes—must-fix issues like typos, factual errors, or plot holes. Next, consider subjective suggestions, such as opinions about style, pacing, or tone.
Finally, set aside non-actionable comments. Vague or irrelevant statements like “I just didn’t like it.” will only waste your time.
4. Ask for clarity.
When feedback is vague, don’t be afraid to ask follow-up questions. A lot of feedback comes from people who aren’t trained to give them.
If someone says, “This part didn’t work for me,” you can ask, “What specifically felt off? Was it the pacing, tone, or something else?” Clarifying feedback ensures that you’re addressing the right issues rather than guessing what the reader meant.
5. Use a decision framework.
Use a structured approach when deciding which feedback to follow. It can be as simple as asking yourself these three questions:
- Does this feedback improve my work?
- Is it aligned with my goals?
- Can I implement it without losing my voice?
If the answer to any of these questions is “no,” it’s okay to skip the suggestion. Using a decision framework helps you stay objective and focused on what matters most.
6. Take time to process.
Taking a day or two to process critiques allows you to approach them with a clear head. Emotional reactions, especially to harsh critiques, can cloud your judgment. By giving yourself time, you can evaluate feedback calmly and make more thoughtful decisions.
7. Keep a feedback log.
Track recurring comments to identify patterns. If multiple people mention the same issue, it’s probably worth addressing.
Balancing Feedback with Your Vision
Filtering feedback is an essential skill for writers. It’s not about pleasing everyone; it’s about using feedback as a tool to create your best work. Even the toughest critiques can be opportunities for growth.
But while feedback is invaluable, it’s important to remember that it’s your work. If a suggestion doesn’t feel right or clashes with your creative vision, it’s okay to ignore it.
And if you try to incorporate them all, you’ll ruin your work further. Remember the idiom, “Too many cooks spoil the broth.” Many successful writers have trusted their instincts over external opinions, and you should, too.
How do you filter feedback? Share your thoughts below!
If you enjoyed this post, then you might also like:
- Critique Partners: How to Find One and Make the Most Out of Them
- How to Give Constructive Criticism: 6 Tips and Examples for Helpful Feedback
- Should You Dream Big or Stay Realistic with Your Writing Goals?
- What’s the Difference between Revising and Editing?
Cole is a blog writer and aspiring novelist. He has a degree in Communications and is an advocate of media and information literacy and responsible media practices. Aside from his interest in technology, crafts, and food, he’s also your typical science fiction and fantasy junkie, spending most of his free time reading through an ever-growing to-be-read list. It’s either that or procrastinating over actually writing his book. Wish him luck!
