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I want to give your blog a semi in-depth review
Posted by Kalinae • 6/30/08 • Subscribe to this Discussion [RSS] • Report This Topic
Topics: blog review, helping, review
Hey guys. Recently I have really enjoyed giving blogs reviews. I like to give everyone a semi in depth review of their blog. If you would like me to check out your blog and give it a review just post a link on here and I will get to it as soon as I can. If you can't handle a little constructive criticism, don't post your blog please.
In the past these types of threads have gotten a lot of attention, so it might take a bit to get to your blog, but hopefully I will get there eventually 
User Comments
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do me do me do me
www.ya-ttitude.com/blog-
First off, I like the general layout of the website, with the bottom (4-step plan, featured article, the book shelf) being my favorite part. The header and search look great, and are in good placements.
Things I suggest changing:
-There is a lot of extra space below the opening statement that is honestly annoying me. I think the content should always be longer than whatever you have going on in the side columns. Either consider extending that part or do something about the side columns.
-How about a blog archive? Right now it seems fairly difficult to see older posts without maybe landing on it through a search engine. Recent Posts are good, but older content can still be good content too!
-The picture with your face on it either need to be a tad smaller, or a tad larger. Right now theres like 6 words that are wrapping under the picture and makes it very akward. Making it smaller would allow more text under the image. A bigger picture would fix those extra 6 words fit with the rest of the paragraph.
-I notice a login link in the footnotes of the website. What is the point of the login? And where is the register link? If you want to make this a fairly large part of your website, I suggest placing on the top of the webpage with the rest of the links.
Hope I helped out!
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First thoughts upon reaching the site: YIKES! 114.34$ for gas, I would be at the nearest carmax trading in that suburban right now :\
Likes: You took a traditional blogspot template and made it your own in some regard, which is nice. I hate seeing templates from that website unchanged. I really like your cloud tag, looks a lot better than the one I have on my website, haha. I also like your writing style and posts.
Things I think you should change:
-The background color of your posts (that manilla type color) I think should be changed. It's kind of ugly. Since your blog is still starting out and has not been around for 3+ months, I suggest changing the blog archive format to weekly, right now it is way too long.
-I would try to even out both sides of the side columns, it makes it look more professional. Right now the right side is a lot longer, but I'm sure changing the blog archive type would help even out the sides as well.
-For your posts, how about posting the day of the week the post was made? I like to know when the last time I visited the page was, how long since the newest post, etc.
-Change the color of that blogger thing at the very very top where you can search and stuff, it looks odd with its current color.
-How about an image for the header? It looks kind of plain with just words. Even something thrown together on paint with a background and your current words would look good.
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Uh, you can do me in the regard of how you would review my blog.
Here ya go
psychocarnival.blogspot.com-
haha, I thought the "do me" was kind of odd as well...
first thoughts upon reaching the website: LOL. The pictures that first popped into view are hilarious. It definitely made me want to read more, very engaging.
Likes: Good interactivity on the blog. I like a lot of the widgets and things, but be careful not to go overboard on these things. I like the colors, it's different from other blogs, yet still easy to read.
Things that could be changed:
-maybe an image header, they look better.
-I don't see the point of having "Psycho Carnival" written on the right side, I see it on your header, the other thing is just kind of pointless
-I would place that welcome message maybe on the about me section or something? Right now the about me is pointless except for the good laughs on your picture.
-I like your blog archive, though I think it would do better above all the other "pointless" widgets.
Love the website overall, however. It definitely gave me some good laughs.
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yay! another blog site about music. Nice to see someone sharing the same interests.
likes: The banner is great. Maybe add some text on it for the extra affect and making it more personal to your website? I would put the stuff that you have right below the banner on the banner itself.
things you could change:
-The banner thing mentioned above
-have the google link ads stretch across the page, instead of that short version you currently have. Make it 5 link as well instead of the 3.
-I suggest putting the search option on the right column, away from your posts. Your posts are the most important part of the page, I would try and not distract any attention from it.
-I like the contact information, however I suggest placing it near the bottom of the page. The subscribe in a reader could possibly stay up top, however.
-I like when things are centered in a column, though some people do not. Try centering things like your picture in that column and viewing the website to see what you prefer.
-I would place the blog archive above your tags. Instead of your tags, have you tried implementing a tag cloud? They look cool and I am more likely to click on the tags.
-Like many above, I would change your archive to weekly, instead of the monthly you currently have until you have been around for about 3 months.
-Your footer could use a little work. It looks a bit sloppy at the bottom of the page and left aligned. -
Great feedback! Thank you for the review
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np, it's always a pleasure to help people out
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link does not work.
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cooking instantly grabbed my attention, love the topic...though I may be biased as my whole family works in the hospitality industry, haha.
Likes: General layout is good; nice, attractive banner; terrific photos...makes me want to go eat whatever you have pictured; good ad placement ...not over the top and distracting; good use of pictures in post to engage reader; great favicon that goes with the website / banner well. (what made you choose a tomatoe? lol).
things you could change:
-what is the difference between the links and "Other delicious reads"? It seems a bit unnecessary to have both, why don't you combine them?
-Your other delicious reads section is very long, and turns me away from checking out any of the links. Maybe try narrowing down a few?
-Your blog has been around for a fairly long time, is featured in big places, but your still on a .blogspot.com domain? You could get a domain for like 10$ a year, why not make the switch?
-I absolutely hate the archiving system you currently have (omg don't cry). Blogspot has really good archiving systems they offer, I would choose some other than your current.
utter dislikes: your blog made me hungry
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I have a domain! My blog isn't redirected there yet. Um, archiving system? No clue. 'Splain it. Other Delicious Reads are blog links, yep way long, but I'm not paying for BlogRolling and I don't feel like putting up a separate page. 'Links' are all images linked to non-blog sites.
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ah gotcha, your links things makes sense now. By Blog Archive, I mean currently you just have a dropdown menu that when you click on, brings you to a totally new page where you again have to search through to get to a certain post. There are many archive systems...the one you have being the dropdown menu. I currently have one where you can click the month, or week, or w/e u set it to, and there will be a dropdown on that same webpage where you can see all the posts from that time period. I suggest you check it out on my webpage if you don't fully understand it. (www.new-rock-music.com) I find the archiving system I have much easier and user friendly.
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I gotcha--I did have that --actually I've had them all at one time or another (after 3 years, who wouldn't?) but this one takes the least space.
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I don't get the W for your favicon?
Likes: Beautiful layout; love how you gave little blurps about the post and a readmore option...much more appealing than the traditional wall of text; I like the buttons of spreading the word to like facebook and stuff...they are very appealing, is it a widget or plugin or something? I'd like something of the same for my website
things you could improve:
-Your archive is horrible and hard to find exactly what I wanted.
-Why not have a tag cloud? They are more appealing and easier to use.
-I would take out the blog stats and spam blocked, it seems pretty worthless and takes away from your blog.
-Try to limit the amount of posts under the "Recent Posts." By the time you get down to the 4-5th post it isn't that recent anymore.
-Your header image really isn't that great. I was fooled by your website when I came in. I kind of sighed when I saw that image, horribly horizontally stretched, and thought this is going to be a bad website. Your other content certainly improved that, but people decide within the first 10 seconds if they are going to stay on your website, and that image does not help their first impression.
-Instead of the subscribe button on the left side, why not have an option to subscribe next to the RSS entries and comments?
-Instead of the recent visitors up top, try putting something that would further your site more, such as a blog archive or tag cloud or something. -
Thank you for you're in put the Favicon is not my choice
i'm using the free version of wordpress and they don't allow
us to change the favicon -
ah, gotcha, I'm an idiot for not thinking of that haha. I was just confused cause you use the W and your icon here as well.
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Love the header image, even though it isn't necessarily unique.
things I would change:
-Take out that ad top center, or maybe have one 5 link ad that spans across the top under the banner. You have 2 on the sides, I would focus more on content in the middle.
-your top 10 polyborers does not work...says feed isn't accessible.
-I would put that share thing you got going on the left side under each post instead of on the left column
-Limit the nubmer of posts per page to like, 4 at most. Your page is way too long atm.
-That digg button is too big. Try making it smaller and centering it or finding a better place for it (maybe in the middle of the post)
-What's the point of the petrol prices? I don't see any posts about gas or anything, and not everyone lives in the UK. I think it would be best to rid of it.
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Likes: I like your writing style. It helps to engage your reader into your website. Also like your favicon and content. Great use of images in posts.
things I would change:
-your blog archive. It's horrible and hard to see what you have done!
-I like the idea behind your background and header image, though it really kind of looks like a children's website. Maybe somehow changing it to look more adult?
-I would take out the ad on the right side thats lonely and maybe put it above your first post on the left side. People tend to look at the top left side of a website when they first boot it up. I have an example on my website if you do not understand what I am saying (www.new-rock-music.com)
-put that widget you have at the very bottom of the page on the right column. It looks weird at its current place.
-I would place an ad at the bottom of the page as well. You won't get much ad clicks on that right side.
-maybe think about adding a tag cloud
-put the subscribe now button a little higher.
careful allowing downloads of those songs...even with the disclaimer.
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it's weird how many people seem to have the same things that I would change.
likes: Good banner and background image. It's unique and engaging. Great job on the top links. I like how your side column titles are related to majesty stuff (like the "sheer royalty" "evil jesters" "past tales" titles. Good layout. Your kids are pretty good artists.
things you could change:
-That white is a little hard to read on the banner, though I understand it can be hard to choose a good color for that banner. Have you tried using the green from the right column background on the text on the image?
-try to have more labels/tags. These tags are used in SEO and such, it's good to have more than just one fairly long tag.
-Maybe have a dropdown on the archiving? It kind of defeats the purpose on your archive when you go to a new page when you click on the archive...or just a little frustrating I guess
-Instead of your "Happily Ever After," why not try a tag cloud?
-It's hard to tell when your next post starts and where a post ends. Why not make that more clear?
-try to incorporate pictures into all of your posts. It helps engage readers and also brings some traffic in from things like google image searches (i get like 2-3 views each day just from this). -
Great observations! Thank you for taking the time to check it out and offer your opinions. It is greatly appreciated!
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hmm, your blog rings a bell, I remember viewing it before
likes: Great background and an even better header image. It makes me happy Great blog archive and good placement (first time I think I've said that all day haha)
things you could change:
-Put that copyright under you last ad on the page. It's kind of weird at its current placement.
-why do you change your font type every post? I like consistency, it's a bit confusing
-At the top of your page, everything under the yellow text up to the first post should be place at the bottom of the page, just below the ad and above the copyright stuff.
-I would place an ad somewhere in that introductory top left portion. I get most of my website clicks in that region, and not so more in the side columns
-your ad goes over that little border thing they got going in the bottom. Not a big deal, but I am OCD so it kind of bothers me haha.
pyzam goes advertise happy on their layouts...kind of annoying on their part. -
Hey thanks for the review! I'll try to clear up some of this:
-There are different fonts because there are different writers. It was supposed to distinguish between us...guess it didn't work xD
-I'll change the archive now that there are more people willing to look
-Yeah changing the location of the copyright is a good idea.
-And those are ads I put lol xD I might remove them they aren't doing much for me so far.
Anyways thanks again for this useful review! -
np, glad to help. Now I understand the different font types, maybe help clear that up somehow in the webpage? Or if you do, make it a little better haha.
and yea, your ads aren't doing anything for you because of the placement. Ads can be very touchy. Location is key to getting clicks. I got none for 5 weeks, then I switched them around to my current locations and now I get many clicks. You can check it out and copy / get inspiration for good placement by viewing my website. www.new-rock-music.com
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absolutely. thanks much.
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These are mine. If three are too much, just pick whichever you want Thanks!
stylesnippets.blogspot.com/
tastorama.com/
forfunssake.blogspot.com/-
I choose tastorama because I like food. ...and because own domains show an increased sort of commitment.
First off, I hate you for posting delicious looking food, and hate myself for choosing the food blog.
Likes: Good looking food that makes me want to make it; Harry Potter?
things I would change:
-Move that globe of blogs to the bottom of the right side, or just at the very bottom with the other links. Move the blog archive up.
-add more to your about me section. It's blank right now and just taking up wasted space. Add more or take it out.
-Since your blog hasn't been around for a long time, I would change the blog archive to weekly instead of archiving monthly, until you've been around for a couple more months.
-Try adding an image in that heading. The text makes it look like every other blog, especially with that layout. (everyone has it, it seems)
-I would try to add more widgets or something in the right column, it's pretty bland and boring atm, which is the same problem as my current website. A tag cloud would help place something there and also look good at the same time.
-always add tags to your posts, it helps SEO
I'm a bit surprised you don't get more views...your food looks delicious. Sorry for all of the good looking food remarks, it's almost dinner time!
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I know this isn't much but I could use a little constructive criticism. Thanks for the offer.
thevertouscollection.blogspot.com/-
it always makes me happy to see a layout that isn't one normally offered in blogspot. It makes your blog unique and I want to view it more. It's also always interesting to see someone recovering of some sort of addiction. It's nice to see you found a more healthy addiction.
Likes: Brilliant layout, very good images; great poetry (I normally hate it but I read through a couple of yours ); Your lack of ads show your dedication and love for poetry...it makes me enjoy it that much more
Things you could change:
-Move that blog archive up a couple notches to be within that first post range
-try to find a better place for that blog catalog rate button. It feels a bit out of place. Maybe place it in the footer, centered above the copyright notice? I gave you a 5 btw
-if you are really serious about this blog, move it to its own domain name! It's cheap, people will take you even more seriously, and I'm sure you will enjoy the outcome.
-center that calling all poets picture
not really much I can say that I would change, looks like a fairly solid blog. Keep it up. -
Thanks Kalinae,
I really do appreciate the input. I have plans on the domain but first I wanted to test the waters. Poetry sites aren't that popular. I only do it because I enjoy it.
What do you recommend Blogger or Wordpress? -
honestly I don't know what to tell you for that question. I have no tried wordpress, so I don't really know what else they offer. I have been using blogger since day one, and that's all I really know, so I'm a bit biased. I would suggest either making an account with wordpress and trying it out, or reading some sites on how they are different
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Ok, here we go... I'M READY!
www.musclearmor.blogspot.com
It's still very new, so I'm very open to a little constructive criticism!-
first thoughts: "Wowa, a 5 column blog, never seen one of these"
(do you put quotes around thoughts? I forget. haha)
likes: good banner header image, though it could be a little better, it is still better than text ; great topic, I've never really understood muscles and supplements and such, so this is a good read to me.
things you could change:
-I would switch over to a 3 column website. The 5 column just seems a bit too much for me. You could simply merge those two columns on each side.
-change that very top blogger bar thingy to that blue color they offer
-get a new subscribe button or link that doesn't have the "Widget" advertisement underneath it. They are tons of alternatives for that particular thing, might as well get something without an advertisement
-work on your labels. "Information" is not a good label on its own. Labels are a big part, whether you know it or not yet. It helps gain viewers from search engines, which is a big part of your traffic, or will be at least. You could also go with a tag cloud. Search google on how to add one.
-your about me section is lacking
-I suggest putting a blog archive in your website
-Careful on the number of ads you put. Too many will turn your viewers away from your site, and will make it harder for you to get on picky blog directories.
Good luck on your starting project!
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first impressions: WOW you post a lot. I can definitely see you being that grandpa simpson though, that's exactly how I would picture you, haha.
Likes: Tons of posts, I could come back everyday and expect a new post! Great for subscribing and returning visitors; good choice of images
things you could change:
-maybe add a nice image in the title header? It would attract more attention to your blog and make it look better than the other people using the same template.
-move that blog archive up! You have tons of content, show it off!
-try to choose higher quality images. The first image I see on the page looks a bit blurry, and I know for a fact there are better choices!
-I would try to shorten the number of posts per page by 1.
-you seem very dedicated to your blog. Why haven't you moved it to your own domain yet? -
Thanks for the review. I have my own domain name, and use the blogger platform because I'm comfortable with it.
If I knew how to dump blogger, I would. -
i actually use blogspot for my website as well, and still have to go to blogger to edit my website and everything, I just have my own domain. You can transfer everything over in the settings >> publishing section of blogger if you didn't know.
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Alrighty guys, Time to close up shop. Thanks everyone that submitted their website in hopes for a review, I'm glad I got to everyone. I'm pretty happy from the results, and will be bumping this thread again the next time I have a day off (probably next monday) and can review a bunch of blogs like today
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*Whew* that wasn't so bad! Thanks for the review!
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Well, I guess I'm too late ... and here I thought semi-in depth sounded interesting.
Oh well, if you're bored again
drowseymonkey.blogspot.com-
mm, guess Ill toss in a couple tonight...though now I have like 30 other people wanting reviews, haha.
first impressions: "Wtf are these penguins doing...oh sweet, they follow your mouse. Omg! you can pick em up too" After about 5 minutes of playing with the penguins, I decided to finish the review
likes: Penguins / the little things on your page that make me smile, like your footer / your random banner / lots of interactivity
things you could change:
-I suggest placing the subscribe stuff higher in the right column.
-You have a ton of widgets and things. I think you would get a better response from them with a 3 column layout, though this is really your choice. Just 2 looks pretty nice.
-I suggest having a blog archive of some sort, or if you have one, make it more obvious
-place the blog copyright and the "blog stuff" buttons in the footer.
-I suggest taking out toronto time / toronto weather. 95% of your visitors won't be for toronto, and its just wasted space, loading time, etc to have it on there.
-use more labels, and maybe incorporate a tag cloud into your website. Labels help google with recognizing what your site is, and helps a user searching reach your site -
Thanks
Actually, I change the sidebar around quite often, so your input is helpful, thanks.
I do like the widgets! I'm a widgetaholic! But when I got rid of the penguins I had a mutiny! So I had to bring them back. Now I just change the background and the number of penguins every once in a while.
I had an archive ... then I got rid of it, and added a 'what you missed' page, but you're right, people probably don't see that. Same with the labels .. I had them then got rid of them, but having it there makes sense.
3 columns would be good but then I'd have to learn html, lol ... maybe someday tho! -
haha, well if you want to make the jump, w3schools.com is a great site with tutorials to learn all that stuff.
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we;; pick also economistwems5.blogspot.com-
first impressions: Wow, orange and huge font
likes: color scheme is unique and engaging
things you could change:
-I understand you want to make money, but placing ads every place you can will not get you that, and will often turn visitors away. Try placing a few ads in strategic places and you will find it has a better outcome.
-more than one post
-place the blog archive on the left column, not in the footer.
-try not to use that big of font, it takes away from the page
-I would put the stuff u have thats not ads from the left side and move it up the page more.
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first impressions: nice, soothing layout
likes: Good layout and colors / search achive is very nice, never seen it before. / grats on all the awards
things you could change:
-maybe tag cloud? It's not for everyone, but I definitely prefer it over a tag list.
-I suggest placing contact information in the footer.
-I don't get that calendar? there's nothing on it but dates? Is that all you want it used for?
-Why show how many comments have been "purified?"
-Your pixieweather link thingy is broken.
-I suggest placing the subscribe to RSS and login stuff near the top, not in the middle of the page. You will see more subscribers when placing this in a more strategic location, a lot like ads.
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first impressions: wow plain and lots of white space!
likes: good ad placement and content / you have some good followers
things you could change:
-I think the thing that you lack most is your layout style. Everything seems so plain and bland, it doesn't engage me in any way. In order to fix this, try adding a banner at the top of the page instead of William Dipini, have some pictures and other sort of interactivity (this brings both life and viewers to your page), write more (many of your posts are less than 50 words).
-write some more in your about me section. Right now it's blank on the page. Maybe even add a picture! even if its like your icon from this, it still looks better than the nothing atm
-williamdipini (at) yahoo (dot) com has to go...just right out williamdipini@yahoo.com I don't understand why you have it the way you do.
-Take out that blogger button that is there for no reason
-Limit your posts per page a little bit.
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first impressions: why do I have to scroll over just to see the full page?
Likes: not one of the million same templates I see in many blogs / love the organization and looks of your right column / yay, you have your own domain! / good content
things you could change:
-this one isn't an option...change whatever is causing the page to be so wide so I do not have to scroll over to view the whole page, it's extremely annoying
-Why do you have admin stuff in your blog? I don't get it. Take out that title or the register / login stuff.
-Try adding the buttons for all the blog stuff in the footer. You could also place another ad there.
-in the top of the page for the title, try a different font or something, it looks too plain and simple!
-take out the google ads title, the ads themselves have a title, no need to tell everyone twice.
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Thanks for these comments! I'm doing a comprehensive revamp of my website and will certainly include your suggestions. I'm wierded out by the scrolling problem. The site appears on my screen without the need to scroll. I guess it's the resolution I'm using. Thanks again!
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yea, you most likely have a higher resolution. Make sure you cater to your lower resolution viewers as well though!
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first impressions: Why do I need to scroll over to see the whole page? Very annoying. Pretty picture though
likes: good header image (though it needs to be resized by a lot) / good stuff in the right column
things you could change:
-not an option: resize your first image. I want to get to the content, not see a huge picture that takes up my whole 19" screen. Also need to resize the page so I do not have to scroll over to view everything on the website.
-I hate to say it, but I feel as if your blog is kind of unfinished? You have some blank squares where there is nothing on them...it's just blank blocks of color which kind of confuses me. Why not move the blogging friends and blog rush up to those blank blocks? It would free up the clutter in the bottom of your page and help organization. I would also put all those buttons and things at the bottom of your page in one block across the bottom of you page, possibly taking over the blogging friends block.
You seem to have good knowledge and motivation. I'm sure with a small makeover your blog could become great -
LOL, my worst nightmare came true…you must have been on my site reviewing while I was trying to resize the pages, (I was worried that someone would be trying to review then) they were much too big, and while I was working on them, they got way worse... All better now
It is okay to say it looks unfinished! Because is isn’t finished yet, but getting there. But then again tell me what blog is ever really finished!
I’ve just got done transferring stuff from old blog host blog to new domain a few days ago (oh, my goodness, the hours that took) and I am learning html for the first time, but I am starting to catch on fast, so I still have some blank spots that need filled, and believe me they will be in time. I have a vision of what I want to do. I have to work my blog stuff in between work hours and sleep.
I would rather have the clutter as you called it (and so do I) on the bottom of the page rather then spread all over ruining the look that I am working hard to get for my blog. The extra space on the right will be used for advertisements. So, the many, odd color, odd shaped, odd looking, buttons can stay at the bottom in their nice neat little boxes.
Thank-you so much for your time and very good attention you paid on this blog. You are a wonderful reviewer..
Thanks bunches.!!
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first impressions: looks professional and very well done
likes: best layout...in a unique, attractive, and easily navigatable sense that I have seen in a long time
things you could change:
-I would move the archives list up a few slots, at least above the entrecard position.
-maybe have the register/login buttons up at the top next to the search bar? It gets kind of lost as far down as it is.
-there really isn't much to say about your site, it's damn near perfect. So I am going fancy with this next suggestion. Why not have the links at the top turn to a blue background and white text when you rollover it? I think it would be a nice touch.
-Why are there so many market leverage ads everywhere? Did they pay for all of them or what is the deal with them?
very good site overall. The columns are even at the bottom which is both rare and amazing. Great layout with high interactivity. No useless widgets or things on the right column. No clutter. Mostly everything else seems to be in perfect places.
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Here is mine: www.tamalanwar.com-
first impressions: solid looking website
strengths: great layout, solid footer
things you could change:
-the banner at the top of the page is boring and plain. Spice it up with images or a nice background to it or something. I think this is your biggest flaw in the website.
-the ads in your page could be better placed. That big banner stretching across the screen takes away from the website, and I'm sure doesn't get a great ecpm. Try out some different places for it, there are many great guides out there. I have too many blogs to review or I would tell you some good places...sorry!
-you have like 2 places to subscribe to an RSS within a couple inches of each other. I would either take out the buttons, or merge them with the one in your middle column. My opinion would be to take out the ad and the buttons, merge the buttons with the other RSS area, and place an ad under the "are you new" section of the website.
-there is a huge wall of categories which kind of turns me away. Maybe make it more attractive with a tag cloud or something?
-all of the commenters except you have 0pt. Maybe fix the point system or something? It seems a bit broken, unless you are trying to make yourself look awesome, Haha
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first impressions: Wowa pink!
likes: attractive banner that engages readers / very good right column / good page size and length
things you could change:
-the white text on the banner is hard to read. I suggest using a different color or increasing the size of the text.
-what is the point of the picture are the very bottom? Just for Kicks? It doesn't add much to the site, but if you would like to keep it, I suggest resizing it so it fits within that box in the bottom, it looks odd going over the edges.
-instead of having readers send u a message for the email thing, why not incorporate a button where users can type in their email and hit subscribe? It is a lot less work, and the less work it takes, the more likely they are to do it.
-instead of placing a picture at the beginning of a post and having the text under it, try word wrapping around the picture. Let some text be to the right or left of the picture. This makes the site look better and takes up less room. -
Thanks for the review. Kalinae. You are a layout person par excellence!
And as a former layout person myself, I agree with all the points you suggested. However, I am using a standard Blogger template (by choice) so I'm doing the best I can within the template constraints. For example, I would like to use a different font color for the header, but it's not an option. Also, in some of my earlier posts I have tried word-wrapping around the photos. That's my preference, but it's a real pain in the a** even on Blogger's good days. The current post, which uses a centered picture and centered text, came out that way because I posted the picture through Picasa. It was much easier to do that way but I lost control over the formatting of the text.
So, until I get around to getting my own domain name, custom template, and all that jazz, I'll just do the best I can with my pink-parfait blog. But I'll keep your formatting comments in mind for when that great day comes. T'anks again.
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I would be really interested on what you think of my blog.
www.thumbshots.org/article.aspx?artid=365
thanks,
Profitimo-
first impressions: busy site
likes: good banner / organization / ad placement is good
things you could change:
-the green you use on your website is ugly. I suggest using a darker green, though that is just my opinion.
-your 4 column website is way too busy and crowded. I suggest moving to a 3 column website. Right now your 3 columns are distracting from the content, which should never happen.
-maybe some pictures or something in the main content? Right now I just see a wall of text and get turned off from reading it. Pictures are nice with looks as well as helping to provide a little traffic (it all counts!)
-I don't get the point of this thumbshot thing?
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first impressions: Are those piercings near your eyebrows!?
likes: attractive site / yay pictures / u like lily allen / the girl in green in the bellydance video looks like a pirate
things you could change:
-the about me section is in the middle of nowhere. You could move it up and maybe replace one of the pictures in the left side with the about me section.
-definitely move the blog archive up.
-get rid of the title "sign."
-maybe add a subscribe by email thing directly under the RSS subscribe
-white and black is kind of boring. Maybe make the left column a shade of blue in your banner? -
The "piercings" are stickers, lol. Thanks for the ideas. I will definitely give them some thought.
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first impressions: germany eh? I love germany My mother is from Germany so I get the opportunity to go every couple of years.
likes: pleasant banner / fantastic right column with good titles
things you could change:
-place words on the banner to let viewers know where they are visiting and look more professional
-when looking at most of your posts, I see a wall of text. It turns off readers. I suggest adding pictures at least once every post. This will help to engage readers and encourage them to read the post.
-you have many posts per page. I would reduce the number of posts per page by 2 or more.
-gray white and black? How about something a little more original, exciting, and engaging?
-I like it when comments are at the bottom of posts. I decide if I want to comment on a post after I read through it all, not before. I don't want to have to do extra work by scrolling up just to post a comment or view them. -
Thanks for the advice! The thing is that I work with a pre-set template, so a lot of the things you mention about the colours and the comments for instance are things that I can't change. I'll reduce the number of posts per page though.
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first impressions: attractive layout, great colors
likes: Good layout and colors. Great banner and navigation as well. The search bar is at a good location, and I am really liking that calendar
things you could change:
-Maybe have a place where people are able to subscribe via RSS or email? This makes it easier for people that like to read lots of blogs remember to read yours, and see when the website is updated
-I'm sure with a few google adsense ads you could raise a bit of revenue. Even with low traffic I'm sure you could at least pay for your domain or even hosting through it. I do, however, respect websites without ads a lot more.
-maybe incorporate a fancier text for the "The 4th Wall" title up on top of the page?
-how about a tags section on one of the left or right column? It can make it easier for people to look for what they want, even though you do have a search.
great website overall
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I am fishing for some criticism.
xstreemfishing.blogspot.com-
likes: great banner and layout...also good pictures (nice catches in a lot of them) Definitely keeps your interest in the blog. It made me look to see what else you caught
things you could change:
-always try to incorporate at least one image in every post, I'm sure you can find at least one that would fit your post. No one Likes to see just a huge wall of text.
-your word wrapping around your pictures and overall picture positioning and size is poor, you may want to work on that.
-limit the amount of posts per page.
-I suggest creating a footer with all the buttons and such, your right column is getting really crowded.
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halfdeadanddancing.blogspot.com
Before you cut loose though....you'll need to send me an email address so I can give you access. I try not to let riff raff in. -
if you still do blogspot blogs, do check out
measledpotatoes.blogspot.com
I've been blogging for a short time only and could use some help -
likes:
-perfect ad placement
-good placement and order of everything on the right column
things you could change:
-I suggest creating a footer at the bottom of the page, maybe even below the bottom ad which contains all your other blog buttons. They look a bit dumb on the right side at the moment.
-white and gray is plain...I see it in many blogs...why not try something a little different to excite your reader? (make sure you don't overdo it though!)
-I would take out that donate button for now. It just makes you look like you write in the blog only for money which is not something good to convey. Maybe when you start receiving more hits or offer something (often downloadable) on your website that viewers might be inclined to tip you.
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Hi! I'm new to the blogosphere. Any constructive tips would be most welcome!-
start by posting your link because I have too many blogs to review and am too lazy to have to go through your stuff
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likes:
-great layout and placement of stuff on the right columns
-attractive banner
-good ad placement
things you could change:
-PICTURES! I say this in almost every review, but your sit needs more pictures. I see a huge wall of text on the left column and it makes me sad. Pictures help give your posts some depth, make it more interesting, grab my attention, and make the text look like it's not so much....not to mention brings in some traffic.
-your subscribe button is blurry
really other than that you have a solid blog.
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Sorry it has taken so long to get to you, I've been busy lately.
Likes:
-great unique layout
-good banner / logo design and placement
Things you could change:
-I'm not too sure about the blue and black in the left column. It doesnt really go with the red and white on the rest of the page. Why not stick with the same couple of colors and make it match all the way down? I'm sure the red top half and white bottom half would make the website look better.
-Make sure you try and incorporate at least one image in every post, and feel free to have the text wrap around it. No reason just to have a picture on top then all of the text below it. You did it a couple of times in your posts, feel free to experiment!
-Why not incorporate some ads? Obviously don't go overboard, but maybe an ad below the search might turn in a little bit of revenue to help pay the hosting costs! ( though I do respect sites a lot more that do not use ads!
-I would lower the max amount of posts per page that you currently have. The page runs down a lot, maybe reduce the amount of posts by 1-2. Viewers can always view the archive if they want to see more!
Nice job on the website overall
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likes:
-your travis mcray post was very interesting. It was long so I was kinda unsure if I wanted to read it, but when I started through the first paragraph I couldn't help myself but read it all, haha. You have a great writing style that is capturing.
-good layout and text font
-good banner picture
things you could change:
-Your blog archive is just a long list. A very long list at that. Maybe have them catagorized by months? I know you can do that with blogspot fairly easily.
-you don't have many widgets and things on your right side, maybe add some more?
good blog overall
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I would love your advice.....
keropidark.blogspot.com
Your Daily Dose of Frog Porn
Don't worry there is no skin -
so close, yet so far....
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I welcome constructive advice. Thanks so much!
leafsouplife.blogspot.com -
I can use a break Thanks! I am curious what could be done better with my site .. more or less, to move to "the next step". Any suggestions for that? What should I be adding? what annoys you? what's hard to find or navigate? etc.
PetLvr.com/blog/ -
I got way to many videos on my home page but you can review it.
www.crunchnow.com -
I don't really take it all that seriously. Maybe you will laugh at some of it. Or hate all of it.
welcometothesmashclub.blogspot.com/ -
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Hit me with your best shot...
...Meaning go ahead and pass judgment upon my gaming blog.
glbox.wordpress.com -
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exactly what is a semi in-depth review?
is it similar to a semi ahallow review, except slightly ... more ... um ... depther?
i know, i'm a pain, but i just want to know what I'm getting into.
thanks!-
well, ive done like 20 so far in the thread, read them and find out a couple examples of what they are, haha
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here's my blog www.bb5media.com -
i don't mind getting a little criticism for my blog. im so new at this that i need all the help i can get. my site is pinoygamingworld.blogspot.com thanks! -
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I'm at
diesellives.blogspot.com
Where do you post your reviews? Here or on our BC profiles (which would be handier)-
well, as you can see by the thread...I've been posting them here. I've been pretty busy lately, but hopefully I can get around to everyone.
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here is mine do review plz
www.computersolution.co.cc -
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Please...I haven't had much luck with these reviews..the last one said "I see you've been traveling."
www.blogcatalog.com/user/Patricia12-
I see you've been travelling! Tease.
I read your latest post about pollution in Beijing. Terrible! Funny read though. It made me laugh, the one quoted below:
” We are encouraging athletes to go for their Personal Worst,” he said. “The five minute pollution-assisted mile. The ten pound clean and jerk.”
“We will bring a whole new class of athletes into prominence,” he said. ” The pole vault bar will be set so low you will have to do the limbo to qualify. The also-ran and the under-achiever will finally have their day.” -
Thanks for taking a look. Happy to make you laugh. Can't seem to get anyone on humor-blogs to read tho...Best...
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www.technoengaged.com
kindly have a look -
Please give a look (anyone/everyone else too). I have a very small group who has been reading my blog and they seem to enjoy it. If there is something that I can do better and get more attention from a wider audience, I would be happy to do it.
www.inandoutoftruth.blogspot.com -
I'm new at this so take it easy just kidding I want you to throw everything at me so I can make it great.
chaoticallycalm.blogspot.com -
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If you get to me down this long list, I'd appreciate a review (^_~)
milacross.blogspot.com
Thanks,
-Mila -
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Hello again. I took some of your comments into consideration in doing a complete redesign of my page (see our prior discussion above). Don't know if you remember my old layout, but check out the new one and let me know what you think (the image of my old layout should still appear on my BC page) opinionstreams.com
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I wouldn't mind my blog being reviewed. I am new to blogging so I would welcome any suggestions about www.rickety.us. Thank you.
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I have three blogs. Will you review all of them or just any one! OK, it's your choice.
www.i-blog-ul.blogspot.com
www.hownottodo.blogspot.com
www.shadowstar-thestory.blogspot.com
Anyway, thanks in advance for review.
Right now, I am on your blog reviewing it. Let's see how I review a reviewer's blog! ;-) -
I can't say anything! Nice Blog.
But the black color on a darkish blue background doesn't look nice! To me atleast! -
wooooh, you're busy man. when you have time, pls do mine
peekintomyblog.blogspot.com/ -
How kind of you to take time out to review blogs. Thank you for your time and effort:)
I was trying to start up a new site with the same information on fibroviv.com, however, I am afraid some of my older fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue friends will have a difficult time finding my new site. Anyway, this the first site for your review:
fibroviv.blogspot.com/
Again, thank you very much:)
Viv2007 -
www.the3dsneaker.com
I have had it for 3 weeks and just started putting up stuff recently. Thanks for taking the time to view it. I appreciate it alot! -
www.the3dsneaker.com
I have had it for 3 weeks and just started putting up stuff recently. Thanks for taking the time to view it. I appreciate it alot! -
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My blog is less than a month old and it is all about expensive real estate listings, mega-mansions, and celebrity homes.
www.homesoftherich.blogspot.com
thanks! -
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take a look. thanks. nowandlaterpop.blogspot.com -
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first off: Very interesting topic. It's nice to see something knew...you definitely brought it.
love: banner, navigation, and layout
might want to think about changing:
-maybe pictures or something? I feel as if the blog is just a wall of text and it is hard to grab interest
-lots of white space could be filled with something interesting, or something to grab the user's attention (though the products page is amazing)
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Ok, if you have the time to do the crime, here's my blog:
www.thespiritualityblog.com/
Thanks, Kalinae! I'll be sure to visit you as well.-
first thoughts: nice, calm look...relaxes you
likes:
-good colors and banner
-terrific layout
things you could change:
-theres a bit of white space above your navigation links which kind of bothers me and serves little purpose.
-maybe limit the amount of posts per page to 3-4. There seems to be a lot on one page currently. It will help your loading time as well.
additional suggestions:
-you have a lot of side widgets and things. The further down you go the less likely people are to look at them. If you care for people to see them, maybe switching to a 3 column layout might be in your interest. If not, then you should be fine. You definitely have the space for it, though.
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likes:
-love the heading banner. Great design, though I am not too happy with the font type...did you make it with mspaint? :\
-good blog topic, i'll probably keep stopping in
-very interesting responses that actually answer the question straight up
things you could change:
-maybe change the font on the banner header, it looks pretty bland.
-the way the far left column (your main stuff) is divided can get a bit confusing. Maybe add a divider inbetween posts?
-I liked that when you quoted something it turned the text pink. Realize it or not, but it helps grab attention. When I see a post is just black text and white background without pictures or anything it can get pretty boring. I would work on spicing up the look of your posts. You have the quality, lets take it to the next level.
-Your favicon is really hard to make out.
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things you could change:
-im not sure if it is just my computer or what, but you have a 1 column layout with widgets at the bottom. Make a 2 column layout that has these widgets on the right side. It will make your website look more professional. Right now your layout is really slacking.
-careful on your advertisements. You do not want them to overwhelm the user. There are many guides that show how to make money using minimal ads just by good placement. People get turned off by websites that have many ads on them as well.
-Good job using different font sizes and bolding certain parts and everything, however, maybe add some pictures or something to further grab the user's attention. No one wants to read what they see is just a huge wall of text.
-Right now your website is really long. I would shorten the main page into maybe 3-4 posts max. Right now you have a ton, I could be scrolling down for a while. That's not something too appealing
start there and feel free to ask for another opinion later on if you would like -
Could you please evaluate my blog sent 3 days ago if you already did And I missed it Im sorry
Richard
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oops? sorry?
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do you see your review or do i need to send you a private message with it or something?
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Excellent suggestions and thank you kindly! :-) I'll see what I can do to ween my widget habit. It won't be easy LOL
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Please do me a favor to review my money making blog because I'm still working on it. Any comments will be appreciated.
www.affiliate-rocks.blogspot.com
Thanks,
Webmoney -
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here is my blog www.ghenessa.blogspot.com thank you for your time -
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Thats really nice of you, Thanks!
www.kimforthewin.com -
please pop my cherry. www.thecollegewarrior.com -
sure...mine is www.achyutktelang.blogspot.com -
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Not really sure mine would interest you but thanks. -
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Really nice offer, here is my blogger community blog: www.cyberblog.net -
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Criticism is greatly appreciated =)
freeseotipsandtricks.blogspot.com/ -
If you still feel up for reviewing blogs, I'd love to know what you think.
a-wonderful-oddity.blogspot.com/ -
Im always up for a good roast. Both gastronomically and verbally. =)
Cheers!
www.aftersyxsessions.blogspot.com -
myblog malaynewgen.blogspot.com plz visit it -
Rate mine! Ive always wanted a semi in depth review.
lifeinalimbo.blogspot.com -
Fantastic, thank you in advance for your feedback!
www.examiner.com/x-7312-Miami-Interfaith-Spirituality-Examiner
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