What Makes A Good Comment?

    When writing comments, try to think of the many comments you have seen written on your papers over the years.   Which ones helped you the most?  A good comment is a comment that helps the writer to improve.  Your comments should be well thought out, specific, and contain useable information.  They should offer constructive criticism   regarding possible areas of improvement.  You should be specific by sighting examples from the memo and what should or should not be changed.  If you notice that there are too many problems to comment on at once, focus in on the most common (prioritize the five most important).  Don't comment on the length of the memo unless it is unreasonably short; some people can express their ideas in fewer sentences than others.   Look to see if the author has the necessary components for the memo as outlined by the Communications Group.  How is the content of the memo?  Is it relevant to our organization, well thought out, meaningful, etc.  Are there grammar problems in the memo?  If so, what are they -- be specific.  You should be careful not to confuse grammar and writing style.  If a person's writing is grammatically incorrect or does not communicate their ideas effectively, let them know, but be open to a variety of writing styles.  When you have finished your comment, read it to yourself.  If you were the author of the memo, would the comment benefit your future writing ability?