How Can I Judge My Writing with Minimum Bias

Writing is a deeply personal process, but self-judging can often be burdened by bias. As the creator, you bring your own experiences, opinions, and perspectives to the text, which can cloud your judgment. However, with the right methods, it is possible to reduce your personal bias and improve the overall quality of your writing.

Overcoming Personal Bias

One effective strategy is to take a step back from your writing and revisit it after a significant period of time. In my own experience, I find that waiting a couple of days, or even a week, before reviewing my work helps me to approach it with fresh eyes.

When you read your text after this period, pretend it is someone else's work. Evaluate the following aspects:

Audience Appreciation: Consider how well the text resonates with your intended audience. Are there parts that seem particularly engaging or confusing? Internal Logic: Ensure that the argument or narrative flows logically. Is there any jump in logic that can be smoothed over? Engagement: Is the text engaging enough to keep a reader interested?

As you critique, take notes on areas that need improvement. Don't read and re-read immediately after writing, as you are more likely to overlook issues that you already addressed while in the writing process.

Why Bother Judging It at All?

Not everyone needs to be a Charles Dickens to succeed in sharing their stories. The market for writing is vast and diverse, and success can come from a wide range of voices and styles. The key is to write what you enjoy and see if it resonates with others.

Seeking External Feedback

Another effective method is to ask others to read your work and provide feedback. Other people may bring a different perspective and can help you identify areas that were not clear to you. If they struggle to understand your writing, consider streamlining your explanations or reconsidering your approach.

It’s important to remember that bias can sometimes serve a purpose. Some of the most popular and successful writers are those who embrace their unique style and voice. If your goal is to appeal to a niche audience that loves your particular perspective, go with it.

For example, a heart-warming personal reminiscence might be more appreciated on Quora than a more analytical response. The key is to start with a clear understanding of your target audience and write to their preferences.

By combining these strategies, you can reduce personal bias and improve your writing, while also ensuring that it resonates with your readers.

Key Points to Remember:

Wait a period of time (a couple of days to a week) before reviewing your work. Critique as if it were someone else's work, focusing on audience appreciation and internal logic. Seek feedback from others and consider their perspectives. Embrace your unique style if you are targeting a specific audience.