Review writing techniques Flashcards
Clear structure
- Introduction: Start with a brief overview of what you’re reviewing. Set the tone by giving your overall opinion and engage the reader right away
- Middle paragraphs: Organise your review into clear sections. Discuss different aspects of the topic. Ensure each paragraph explores a specific point
- Conclusion: End with a strong summary of your opinion. Emphasize why your evaluation matters, and encourage the reader to take action
Appropriate tone
- Match the tone to your purpose. For a review, you want to be enthusiastic and informative. Use positive, lively language if you’re recommending something
- Be objective but engaging: use the personal opinions without being overly casual. You’re writing for a public audience, so keep it professional but accessible
Use of rhetorical devices
- Persuasive techniques: Use rhetorical devices like direct address, positive adjectives and rhetorical questions to engage the reader and make your points persuasive
- Varied sentence structure: Include short, punchy sentences for emphasis and longer, more detailed sentences to explain your points
- Facts and opinions: Balance facts with opinions. This gives weight to your argument while keeping it personal and subjective
Audience awareness
Know who you’re writing for. For instance, if you’re reviewing something aimed at young people, your language should be appealing to that demographic. Think about what would interest or persuade them specifically
Persuasive vocabulary
- Use positive, descriptive language: Instead of just saying something is “good”, use words like “fantastic”
- Use superlatives when appropriate
- Comparisons can be useful: if relevant, compare to other options to show why what you’re reviewing is worse/better
Stay focused
Don’t go off-topic. Make sure every paragraph contributes to your overall opinion and directly addresses the title of the review
Proofread
Before you submit, check for spelling punctuation, and grammar errors
Direct address
This engages the reader directly, making them feel personally involved
Positive adjectives
These words create a positive and welcoming emotional appeal, encouraging readers to feel good about things
Tricolon
This device creates rhythm and emphasis, making the message more memorable
Parallelism
Repeating a similar structure emphasizes the variety of options e.g. “Whether you want to work out or join a sports team”
Inclusive language
Promotes a sense of belonging, which appeals to the community spirit
Hyperbole
Adds emphasis, highlighting importance and influence
Alliteration
The repetition of consonant sounds adds a playful tone and helps key phrases stand out
Rhetorical questions
Makes the reader pause and think, engaging them actively in your argument
Anecdotal appeal
The personal touch helps the reader relate, imagining themselves in the described situation
Anaphora (Repetition of a word or phrase to start a sentence)
Repetition emphasizes breadth of options, reinforcing positive aspects e.g. “The facilities… The centre… The affordability of the centre
Appeal to community and belonging
Fosters emotional connection and civic pride
