Is it clear that the writer is an expert on the topic? What information in the report makes this clear?
Sometimes, the writer makes a direct statement that tells why he or she is an expert. Other times, the collection of information makes it clear that the writer knows about the topic.
State the controlling idea of the paper in your own words. Does the writer agree that you have stated it correctly?
The controlling idea gives the paper coherence. Ideas in the paper stick together because they are all related to the controlling idea. The controlling idea may be directly stated, or it may be suggested by the details in the paper. Either way, it should be clear to readers.
Does the report need any additional information in order for you to understand the topic? Suggest details such as facts, explanations, descriptive details, and examples.
Does the report answer the basic 5WHow? questions? What other information would you like to know about the topic?
Is there any information in the report that does not belong? Point out to the writer any places where the paper seems to stray from the topic.
Each item of information in the paper should be clearly related to the topic.
Point out any words or phrases in the report that you do not understand.
Look for people whose names you don't know. Does the writer identify the people? What key words or phrases need defining? What procedures or processes need to be explained more clearly?
Where are ideas in the paper easy to follow? At what point do you become lost? If appropriate, suggest to the writer a different way to order ideas.
A report should move clearly from one main idea to another. The method of organization depends on the writer's topic and writing strategy.
What parts of the report did you especially like? Where did you feel most involved as a reader?
Tell the writer what you liked about the report. What interesting new information did you learn? Where did the ideas flow most smoothly? Help the writer to build on his or her strengths.
