Is the document adequate for review agency concurrence?
Response memos should provide all important comments, both positive and negative, relating to the acceptability of the document, accuracy of content, and agreement with findings. Make a serious effort to recognize good work and offer genuine compliments that recognize positive aspects of the document. Comments will be more readily accepted when they are presented in a balanced review. Present any suggestions for improvement in a friendly and constructive manner. Be extremely careful in the tone of the response memo, in the wording of any criticism and the context in which it is expressed. Avoid sarcasm, officiousness, personal criticisms, nitpicking, or imposition of personal style. It is never appropriate to challenge a peer’s professionalism, intelligence, or standards. In general, phrase all comments courteously, with sensitivity and awareness as to how authors will receive them. Consider how you might react to the same comments. A peer antagonized may someday be in the position to
