Reviews: Form

Overall Aim and Structure

A review is a critical evaluation of a text, performance, product, or event that is written with the intent to inform, persuade, or entertain.
It generally includes a brief overview or summary of what is being reviewed, an evaluation of its quality, and a recommendation for or against it.
The length and content of a review will depend on its audience and purpose.
The tone of a review is usually subjective, reflecting the reviewer’s own reaction to what they are reviewing.

Introduction

The introduction of a review sets the scene and gives some general context about what is being reviewed.
It can make a strong claim or interesting statement about the text, performance, product, or event to grab the audience’s attention.
From the very beginning, the reviewer should make their stance or perspective clear.
Do not forget to mention the title of what you are reviewing and give some basic information about it.

Summary

A key part of any review is providing a summary of what is being reviewed.
The summary should not just recount events or details, but should also highlight the key aspects of the text, performance, product, or event.
It’s important not to give away too much information or too many details, especially if you want your audience to explore the product or experience themselves.
The summary should be balanced and unbiased, setting the groundwork for your own evaluation.

Evaluation

The evaluation is where you get to express your own opinions and ideas about what you’re reviewing.
Consider the key aspects of what you are reviewing – for a book, these might include the plot, the characters or the writing style; for a performance, it might be the acting, the set design, or the directing.
Support your views with precise evidence from the text, performance, product, or event, and also justify your views — explain why you reacted as you did.
Use persuasive language to make your points – your reader should be convinced by your arguments.

Conclusion

A review always concludes with a recommendation.
This summarises your overall impression of what you reviewed and suggests whether the audience should or should not see, read, or use the item or experience you reviewed.
The conclusion should be a consolidation of your thoughts and should reinforce your viewpoint.
Leave the reader with a strong final impression, whether that be positive, negative, or mixed.

General Points

A review must be balanced, fair, and honest. Your readers need to trust your judgement, so presenting a one-sided perspective will not be useful to them.
Make your language lively and interesting. Use imagery, metaphors, and adjectives to evoke the experiences and feelings that the book, performance, product or event gave you.
Be original. Your review is a chance to express your own unique perspective and voice. Avoid clichés and generalizations, and remember that your readers are looking to you for fresh insights.
Keep your audience in mind. The level of detail and the style you adopt will depend on whether you’re writing for experts, enthusiasts, or the general public.
Proofread for spelling, punctuation, and grammar errors to ensure your ideas are communicated effectively.
Always remember to both inform and entertain – a good review is enjoyable to read as well as useful.