I need to develop some review discipline! I haven't written a review in a few weeks. Part of it's being busier than before, but part of it's just not being organized about it.

When I do manage to write a review, I like to do a thorough job. I take the photos first, although often I'll take more after I start writing and realize additional things I want to illustrate. I also take the measurements before I start writing, and look up the material. (Before any of this, we (or I) will have used the toy several times, enough to feel like I understand how well it works, and what I/we like/dislike about it).

I use the extended template. I like the writing style to be conversational. At the same time, I like to cover all the necessary details. I find experience to be the most compelling element in other people's reviews, so I make sure to spend the most time on that.

I usually save the review and walk away from it when I run out of time. It often takes me several days to finish. After I finish, I go back and revise/edit it until I'm fully satisfied. And sometimes I even revise it further after I've publish it if I see something I can improve. I want to make sure Eden feels like they're getting their 50¢ worth out of me!

If I'm using pictures, I always take those first. Then, after I've used it a few times, I'll sit down and just write it out, taking measurements and such then. I much prefer to write casual reviews, although I think they come out more formal than I'd like sometimes

I take the photos and then edit them prior to the review. I also try to take the measurements in advance. I prefer the extended review form.

I try to keep my reviews detailed, organized, and thorough. I usually write it in one sitting, then I go back and edit it the next day to make sure I like how it sounds etc. I always keep the toy next to me for inspiration.

I do measurements and pictures on the fly, but I know what I'm going to say.

When I could include pictures, I would do them first, use the item a few times until I was familiar with it then write my review. I usually write the material and cleaning areas first, then go for the rest of the review...taking measurements, etc. and going over my little notes I wrote down while using the item.

Step 1: I get the package in the mail from EF.

Step 2: Take the package home and open, wash all the toys that need washing, start charging everything that needs charging.

Step 3: Take pictures (before use) and usually post them on EF.

Step 4: Play.

Step 5: Play.

Step 6: Play and start thinking of how this thing rates to other toys.

Step 7: Play some more.

Get stuck in this play loop till I am ready to write a review.

I usually look at many people's reviews of the same item to get ideas on various ways to use the toy if it hasn't worked for me. When I am ready to write a review, I try to have fun. I like details, and I try to write a review as if I am talking to the people who are going to read it.

When sitting to write a review, I know that it takes me ages to write it, so I make sure that I have oodles of time to actually write it.

The only thing I really do before anything is think of a title, sometimes I try to find a catchy one and sometimes it does not work. Then I will take pictures and edit them then find my borders which take me a long time to do because I am picky. In between that either I have already tried the product or going to try it before I write my review. Then when it is time to write my review I have to have quiet or when bored with camming I will start it and that never works because every time I do I get busy. I use the extended format for toys and the other one for other things.

For me, it varies! Sometimes I'll write out a list of measurements, positive and negative features, etc. before I begin; other times I just start with trying to find the right title, then setting up some headers (if I don't have the extended format available), and then taking my time with each section. However, I almost always write my summary first.