Criticizing" and "Critiquing"

These two terms may seem similar, but they have slightly different meanings.
Criticism is typically defined as the act of expressing disapproval or finding fault with
something or someone. So, criticism is always negative and judgmental.

A critique is a more detailed and constructive analysis of a work or idea, with the goal of
improving it. A critique may contain both positive and negative feedback, but it should
ultimately be constructive and focused on making the work better. a critique is meant to be
helpful and informative.
Characteristics of a good/effective critiques
- Should be supported by evidence and reasoning: A critique should be backed up by
evidence, such as data, expert opinions, or logical arguments. It should also explain
the reasoning behind the conclusions reached.
- Should be objectives. An objective critique is based on facts and logic rather than on
personal feelings or bias. This means that the critique should evaluate the subject
based on its merits, rather than based on the critic's personal likes or dislikes.
Objectivity also requires that the critic consider alternative viewpoints and
perspectives.
- Flexible. This means that the critique should be open to new ideas and different
interpretations of the subject. A rigid or inflexible critique can become too narrow and
miss out on important insights.
- Acceptable. A critique should be acceptable in terms of its language, tone, and
approach. A critique that is harsh, offensive, or insulting is not an effective or
acceptable critique.
- Comprehensive. A comprehensive critique is one that is thorough and covers all
relevant aspects of the subject under discussion.
- Constructive. A constructive critique helps to promote growth and development. It
should give feedback that offers specific and actionable advice to help a person to
improve. It should be clear and direct and include the practical steps the person can
take moving forward. Constructive criticism should be specific and actionable, rather
than vague. It should also be delivered in a respectful and tactful manner.
- Organized critique. An organized critique is one that is well-structured and easy to
follow. In an organized critique, the critic first provides an overview of the work being
critiqued, followed by a clear and detailed analysis of its strengths and weaknesses.
- Thoughtful. A thoughtful critique considers the context of the work and the intentions
of the author or creator. This thoughtful approach allows the critic to provide feedback
that is relevant and meaningful, rather than simply pointing out flaws or making

Prepared By David Obong, Program Associate-Youth Agriculture Education Pillar Head 1

 generic suggestions. It also shows that the critic has given careful consideration to the
work and is invested in its improvement.
- Specific. A specific critique provides detailed and concrete feedback, rather than
general or vague comments. This specificity allows the author or creator to understand
exactly what they need to improve and how to go about doing so.
The goal of critiquing
is to soften the negative feedback and make it more palatable and easier to hear. For example,
in the workplace, your headteacher may say " You have done a good job on this project, but I
think there are a few areas that could improvement on.
- to improve the work or idea being critiqued.
- to help improve on the quality of a piece of writing, a performance.
- It may also help the person being critiqued to learn and grow.
- To identify and correct any weaknesses or problems.
- Overall, critiquing can help people and organizations to become more effective and
successful.
- critiquing can help people to become more open-minded and willing to consider new
ideas.
- Help people to develop their communication skills, as they must be able to express
their thoughts and opinions clearly and effectively.
- It can help people to develop a greater understanding of the world around them, as
they must be able to analyse and evaluate a wide range of information and
perspectives.
Difference between criticizing and critiquing

Criticism Critiquing
- Seeks to find fault Seeks to help a person improve
- Its judgmental - Focus on finding solutions
- it is destructive and highlights what not to
- it is constructive offering improvement on
do what to do
- is spoken with cruel and sarcastic tongue - is spoken in kind, honest, and objective
tone
- focusses on the person - focusses on the content.
- is vague e.g., I don’t think your plan is - involves a more in-depth analysis and
feasible discussion of specific points e.g., it is a good
plan but if we can make it in this way, it will
work well

Prepared By David Obong, Program Associate-Youth Agriculture Education Pillar Head 2