Review Writing Guidelines

Note:  these guidelines are adapted from Appstorm.com's writer's guidelines.  If you think you've written a snappy review, followed the guidelines and want to make a fast dollar or two, check out this link.

 Title (should include the name of the app and attract the reader with witty or even cheesy phrases)

Introduction:

• Introduction paragraphs covering what the app does and what the review will cover. Try to write two separate, short, paragraphs. 
• These two paragraphs should lead logically towards starting the article, and try to draw the reader in.

Overview

• Give a detailed overview of what the application does and explain the installation or sign- up process. 
• Talk about the main functionality, and what problem it solves or need it fills. 
• Give more overview information and 
• maybe ways in which the application can be used or how it is beneficial.

 Headings

You then need to work through all the different aspects of the application, under various headings. These vary for each app, but you’ll definitely want to include at least:

1. Overall design:  colors, the way the app is designed, the way it's laid out
2. Functionality:  is it easy to find the controls, menus, etc. Does it do what you expect it to do?
3. Performance:  does it stall, shut down unexpectedly?  Is it fast?  Are there too many steps?
4. Comparison to Other Apps (if you've reviewed similar apps)
5. Pricing, etc. :  is it worth the cost?  If it's free, was it worth the download time?
6. Any other heading that would be appropriate to your app.

Tailor this as you see fit, and try to be as comprehensive as possible.

Conclusion

In this section, you’ll want to

1. Summarize your thoughts on the application in general. 
2. Remind readers of the aspects you liked, 
3. Suggest areas for improvement, and 
4. Draw the article to a close with a link back to where they can download a trial, or try the app for themselves. 
5. Finally, give your rating of the app out of 10 (ex. 8/10). 
6. It's usually helpful to explain more specifically (briefly) why you gave the app the particular rating. 
7. Mention one or more ways the app developer could improve their rating by improving their app in a specific way.