How to Write Review Comments

Notes adapted from review-writing principles I learned from Paul, with personal experiences added over the years.

Why It Matters

Writing thoughtful reviews demonstrates research maturity. Good reviews show that you can understand complex technical ideas, identify fundamental questions, judge novelty and rigor fairly, and write clearly. These are also the skills needed to write a good paper. If you cannot write good review comments, you cannot write a good paper.

Keep in Mind

Be Respectful. Offer constructive criticism backed by facts. Write as if the author were a friend, and review their work as you would want yours to be reviewed. The authors are human beings who worked hard on their paper.

Leave an Impression. Your reviews will often be read by senior researchers—sometimes more carefully than your own papers. Your writing reflects your thinking and should show clarity, fairness, and depth. A well-written review is a signal of your own capability.

Structure

A strong review has three parts:

I. Overview (1–2 paragraphs)

Summarize the paper’s topic, problem, and proposed solution. This section should stand on its own for editors and program committee members who may not read the full review. Show that you understood the paper, even if you disagree with it.

II. Main Points

Present the key reasons for your recommendation in order of importance, with the most significant first. Keep comments concise and specific. Vague criticism is not useful. If you raise a concern, explain exactly what it is and why it matters.

III. Additional Comments

Provide secondary remarks on clarifications, improvements, and minor issues. These should be genuinely minor—do not bury a major concern here.

Before submitting, check your own review for typos and unclear statements.