Reviewer/Critic

Tasks & duties

Reviewers/critics may do some or all of the following:

• research the background of the work being reviewed using resources such as the Internet
• watch films or television
• attend concerts, plays, dance performances or art exhibitions
• read books and magazines
• listen to tapes, compact discs or the radio
• develop an objective and subjective opinion of the work
• prepare and write a review
• send the review to a newspaper or magazine
• present reviews on radio, television and/or the Internet
• participate in radio programmes

Specialisations

Reviewers/critics usually specialise in art, music, performing arts, television and film, or theatre. They may specialise in more than one of these areas.

Skills & knowledge

Reviewers/critics need to have:

• good knowledge of the medium they are reviewing
• an understanding of issues of interest to readers or listeners
• excellent writing skills, including knowledge of grammar, vocabulary and spelling
• analytical skills
• skill in evaluating the quality of work

Shorthand skills may also be an advantage.

Entry requirements

There are no specific entry requirements to become a reviewer/critic, but writing skills and a strong interest in the area you are reviewing are essential.

Secondary education

There are no specific secondary educational requirements to become a reviewer/critic. However, English is useful and a tertiary entrance qualification may be required to enter journalism training.

Tertiary education

Journalism training is helpful, as many reviewers/critics write other articles for publication. A tertiary qualification in the field that is being reviewed may also be useful.

Training on the job

Skills are gained on the job through experience, training and feedback from editors.

Useful experience

Useful experience for reviewers/critics includes:

• writing newspaper features
• reporting work
• performance experience
• theatre and film work
• work as an art gallery assistant

Many reviewers/critics begin reviewing voluntarily to gain experience and to get work published.

Related courses

Graphic Arts and Design Studies
Journalism, Communication and Media Studies
Written Communication

For more information, please refer to Career Services.