Design critiques can feel scary. You spent hours creating something, and now it’s being picked apart. But when done right, a critique is not an attack. It’s a gift. A good critique helps make a design better.
But here’s the secret: for a critique to be helpful, it needs *good feedback*. Not vague comments. Not opinions disguised as truth. Real, useful insight. Want to make sure you’re part of a critique that helps everyone? Let’s explore some fun and simple rules.
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1. Start with the Goal
Before you say anything, ask: what problem is this design solving?
Every design has a goal. Maybe it’s to sell shoes or guide users to sign up for a newsletter. A critique should be based on whether the design meets that goal—not your personal taste.
Good feedback sounds like:
- “Does this layout help users find the checkout button easily?”
- “I think this color might distract from the primary call to action.”
Not-so-great feedback sounds like:
- “I just don’t like this color.”
- “This looks weird to me.”
2. Timing Matters
There’s a right time to give feedback. If a designer is still working on the basic structure, don’t comment on typography or button size. That’s like saying the cake doesn’t taste good before it’s out of the oven.
Ask the designer what stage the work is in and what kind of feedback they want. This shows respect and keeps feedback focused.
Try asking:
- “What kind of feedback are you looking for?”
- “Is this still a rough draft, or are you polishing details?”
3. Be Specific, Not Vague
“It looks nice” doesn’t help. Neither does “I don’t get it.” When you give feedback, be clear and detailed. Say what you’re reacting to. Say why.
Instead of: “This isn’t working for me.”
Try: “The text overlaps with the image on mobile, making it hard to read.”
The more specific you are, the more likely the designer can use your feedback to improve.
4. Talk About the Design, Not the Designer
This should be obvious, but let’s say it anyway. Critique the work, not the person.
Not this: “You always make stuff too complex.”
Yes, this: “This layout might be too complex for new users.”
See the difference? One attacks. The other helps.
5. Offer a Path Forward
Pointing out problems is easy. Suggesting solutions is kinder—and more useful.
Good feedback includes:
- Ideas for solving the issue
- Examples of similar work that handles it well
- Questions that lead to improvements
Helping someone move forward is always better than just pointing backward.
6. Be Honest, But Kind
Designers want real input. They don’t want empty praise. But they also don’t want harsh jabs.
Try this trick: speak as if you’re talking to a friend who really wants to grow.
Example: “I love the idea here. The colors feel playful, but they might be clashing a bit. Maybe try a softer palette?”
You’re being honest. But also caring. That’s how people learn best.
7. Check Your Ego at the Door
You’re not here to prove you’re smarter. You’re here to build something better, together. Remember that. Be curious, not judgmental.
This also means being ready to receive feedback if it’s your work on the screen. Don’t get defensive. Listen. Ask questions. You can always disagree—just do it with class.
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8. Use the “Yes, and…” Trick
This one’s borrowed from improv comedy. When someone makes a suggestion, don’t say “No” right away. Try “Yes, and…” instead.
Example:
Designer: “I used orange here to grab attention.”
Critique-giver: “Yes, and maybe using that same orange in the signup button could strengthen the message.”
It keeps the conversation constructive. It builds instead of breaks.
9. Remember: You’re Not Always the User
You might have strong opinions. But remember—you’re not always the target user.
Ask questions. Bring it back to the goals. Who is this meant for? What do they need? How do they behave?
This helps you focus feedback in the right direction, away from personal bias.
10. Wrap It Up with Encouragement
Always end a critique on a positive note. Highlight what’s working well. Cheer on the effort.
Try: “The layout is super user-friendly. Once we tweak the headlines for clarity, this will really shine.”
People remember how you made them feel. Don’t end with a list of flaws. End with hope.
Bonus Tips: Quick Dos and Don’ts
- Do listen more than you speak
- Do ask clarifying questions
- Do focus on goals, not gut reactions
- Don’t nitpick tiny details too early
- Don’t make it about winning an argument
- Don’t give feedback when you’re in a bad mood
In Conclusion: Better Feedback, Better Design
Design is about solving problems. Feedback is how we solve them better. When you learn to give helpful critiques, you’re not just improving a mockup—you’re building trust, skill, and stronger teams.
So next time you’re in a design review, remember the golden rules: respect the designer, understand the goal, be thoughtful, and bring the positive energy.
Who knew feedback could be this fun?