Writing a Review Flashcards

All 10 cards in this deck

What is a review?

A piece judging how good something is (a film, restaurant, event, product), mixing brief description with a clear opinion and a verdict.

How could you structure a review?

A hook, brief context (what, where, who for), the strengths, the weaknesses, then a clear verdict or recommendation.

How would a game review differ for a teen magazine and a broadsheet newspaper?

Teen magazine: lively, humorous, conversational. Broadsheet: more measured and analytical, considering wider issues such as price or the game's place in the culture.

What is the main purpose of a review?

To give a reasoned judgement so readers can decide whether to watch, visit, buy or read something. It combines information with opinion.

Should a review give away the ending of a film or book?

No. Give enough of the premise to interest the reader, and warn them if you must mention a twist. A review that spoils the ending lets its readers down.

How do you make a review sound balanced?

Weigh strengths and weaknesses with specific examples before your verdict: 'The acting is superb, but the second half drags.' A balanced review is more trustworthy than pure praise or pure attack.

What language suits a review?

Evaluative adjectives and adverbs (gripping, disappointingly), precise detail (a particular scene, dish or moment), comparisons with similar things, and a confident first-person voice.

How should a review end?

With a clear verdict and who it suits: 'If you want a gentle family comedy, go; if you want surprises, wait for something else.'

How can a review open strongly?

With a striking detail, a question, or a bold judgement that makes the reader want to know why: 'I went in expecting to be bored. I came out wanting to book again.'

Improve this review sentence: 'The food was nice and the place was good.'

For example: 'The pizza arrived blistered from the wood oven, the base thin enough to fold, and the staff remembered our order without writing it down.' Specific detail shows the judgement rather than stating it.