Why Critiquing Groups?
As writers, we check our own work, but nothing helps more than having someone else edit our writing.
Joining a critiquing group provides input and helps us to become better writers as we critique the work of others.
These groups provide suggestions and support.
Where Are Those Critique Groups?
Check your library, book stores and community centers for writing groups in your area.
I meet with a wonderful open writer's group. I also meet with a smaller group in our homes where the critiquing is more intense. Both have become my support groups.
There are also online groups, so there's no excuse not to find one that is right for you. Please check the links on the right for online crit groups.
You can Google critiquing groups in your area. I put in critique groups and my city and found two new groups I didn't know about.
How Do Critique Groups Work?
It's, "I'll show you mine if you show me yours." Each meeting you bring copies of your work, like a chapter, for each member and exchange it for a copy of their work. Some groups do the critiques then, some take them home and bring them back the next meeting. I like to bring mine home so I have more time to do the critiques.
Each group has their guidelines as how much to bring, how they crit, how often they meet, stuff like that.
The online groups are similar to the others, but do it by email. Some of these groups are excellent.
Remember, you do not have to take every suggestion a critter gives you, and they do not have to take yours because these are suggestions only. However, if you get several suggestions about the same thing, you may need to do some revising.
The Critters Library has information on how to critique. There's also a list of writer's references and market info here.