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10 Tips for Writing an Outstanding Blog Review

04 Jan 2008

4 Jan, 2008  blog reviews, tips

Having co-founded a blog review site, I have a lot of experience when it comes to writing reviews. It is a time consuming process, but very enjoyable. I hope that you will consider my 10 tips for writing an outstanding review when you’re ready to pen your next review.

  1. Keep a notepad handy. Use it to record the information I’ve listed below. Don’t start typing until the notepad is overflowing with material for your review.
  2. Get to know the author. Reading the About page and the initial post to the blog will often supply you with biographical information as well as the author’s purpose and goals for the blog.
  3. Collect data. Gather information such as age of the blog, frequency of posts, number of RSS subscribers, Technorati rank, Alexa traffic rank, and any noteworthy accomplishments.
  4. Familiarize yourself with the layout and design of the blog. Take note of the features you like as well as those you don’t.
  5. Read through the archives. You should dedicate a significant amount of time to the archives. You can’t write a great review without actually reading the blog. Skimming will not suffice.
  6. Highlight your favorite posts. When you find posts that you particularly enjoy, share them with your readers.
  7. Find suitable graphics. The use of logos, photos, or screenshots will make your article more interesting and compelling.
  8. Offer suggestions. Most bloggers appreciate honest feedback, so be sure to offer a few suggestions for improvement.
  9. Put forth your best effort. Keep in mind that your article is a reflection of you. Quality content will keep your readers coming back.
  10. Proofread. I cannot stress enough how important proofreading is. Before you publish, read the article twice. Use a spellchecker if necessary.

I spend an average of 4-5 hours per review, and you should be prepared to as well. A well-written review should entice your readers to visit the subject blog. The subject blog will often link back to your post. It’s a win-win situation.

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12 Responses

  1. Andrew

    2008 Jan 04 1

    Wow, Tish. I never realized you spent so much time writing all your reviews! I knew you always put in a lot of effort and like to dig into bloggers’ archives, but 4 to 5 hours per review?!? That’s seriously quite admirable.

    Great tips here too. And they definitely work, as my favorite parts of reading your reviews are the detail about the blogger, as well as the specific posts you pull out, which are clearly from the blog’s archives and not just the most recent ones.

  2. Blogging Gal

    2008 Jan 04 2

    Andrew - Thank you very much! Yes, I like to create quality reviews, and you just can’t do that by quickly skimming the blogs. I’m glad you liked the tips. Your comment just made my day! Thanks again!

  3. K-IntheHouse

    2008 Jan 07 3

    Tish, awesome tips! I just forwarded this to my wife who is thinking about reviewing other foodie blogs in her new recipe blog - spicytasty.com. Sorry for the plug but I am going to request a review for her blog over at BlogWeLuv. It’ll be nice early Valentine’s day present for her. ;-) I know it’s way too early but can’t help think about with all the retail stores lining up Valentine gifts already!!

    Stumbled!

    K-IntheHouse’s last blog post..Top Greasemonkey Scripts for New Gmail 2.0

  4. Malin

    2008 Jan 07 4

    Very useful tips! And for well written reviews 4-5 hours is very common. It’s a lot of hard work. And I admire the people who do it :)
    Malin’s last blog post..I need to fly away

  5. Blogging Gal

    2008 Jan 08 5

    K - Thanks for recommending my post to your wife and also for the stumble! It is greatly appreciated. I’m glad you enjoyed the post. Your wife’s blog is very nice. I’ll review it for BlogsWeLuv. Have a great night!

    Malin - Thank you very much! :)

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