technology/geek part of the board.

Quote: from JuggleFoe on 7:55 pm on Sep. 20, 2001
Quote: from honky618 on 9:52 pm on Sep. 20, 2001
all I said is that I don't like the way that macs are set up.

that isn't constructive.

A form of constructive criticism would be "I don't like the way Macs are set up because I think the keyboard should have had a full 101-keys. The mouse is also difficult to use because it is so small. I end up losing the mouse when I play Quake." or something like that.

Here is an excerpt from a paper on the subject:

'Criticism minimally expresses to an author,"There are standards which are relevant here that your paper does not meet." To be constructive, the critic must go beyond, indeed, avoid simple formulations like,

"This is poorly written," or "This makes no sense."

It is more useful - not to mention, non-threatening - to avoid using such statements entirely. One might say, "The problems with this paper are that ...." This foregoes unnecessary emotional engagement and does the work that a critique should do: specify what it is that makes the paper fall below expectable standards!

...

The best procedure as as constructive critic is to adapt the attitude of a team-member trying to improve the workmanship of a colleague. Don't hold back from expressing concern if you think there is a problem; but don't try to intimidate or "one-up" the person whose paper you are criticizing by delivering judgment, but withholding the reasons for it.'

Excerpt snatched from here.