Positive Reinforcement and Constructive Criticism
M.D. Zoltowski · 2004
reviewers take in evaluating a feature article. In my view, an ideal review would provide both positive reinforcement and constructive criticism, while holding the authors to high standards of quality with respect to both technical content and exposition. I’ve generally observed the reviews of feature articles to have these important characteristics. We all need positive reinforcement. Even the most self-assured and highly capable person requires positive feedback from time to time. As most authors spend a lot of time putting an article together, a review should begin with highlighting the positives, reinforcing what was good about the article in terms of technical innovation, intuitive explanation, and illustrative use of media. There is no perfect article, and many will have shortcomings.