What does it mean to "critique" a piece of writing?

To "critique" a piece of writing means to evaluate and analyze its merits and faults, which involves a thorough examination of the content, structure, style, and effectiveness of the writing. This process includes not only identifying strengths but also recognizing weaknesses and areas for improvement. A critique is more than just a superficial review; it requires critical thinking and an understanding of the criteria that define good writing.

This approach allows the writer to gain valuable feedback on how their work can be enhanced, which is fundamental in developing their skills and achieving their writing goals. While editing for grammatical correctness, summarizing the text, or rephrasing it in simpler terms are all useful tasks in the writing process, they do not encompass the comprehensive evaluation that a critique provides.