For all the reviews I write, I use a five-point system. The personal explanations for the different ratings are below.

For movies & books:

  • 1 out of 5 – horrible. Should not have wasted my time. Almost anything else would be better than this.
  • 2 out of 5 – not very good. Maybe okay for mindless entertainment but no more than that.
  • 3 out of 5 – average. The majority goes here; decent entertainment but nothing I would watch or read twice.
  • 4 out of 5 – good. I really liked this and would probably still like it during the second viewing/reading. Will evoke thoughts and ideas days or weeks afterwards.
  • 5 out of 5 – excellent. A rare rating. Can easily withstand more than one pass and keeps you thinking for a long time after the fact.

For restaurants: These are overall scores only; food might be 5 stars in places where the atmosphere or other elements brings the overall score down etc.

  • 1 out of 5 – horrible. Microwave dinner is gourmet compared to this. Never coming back, no matter what.
  • 2 out of 5 – No thanks; I would return only if I was starving and there was no other choice.
  • 3 out of 5 – average. Good for a casual night out or things like dinner after a movie or when you’re too tired to cook at home.
  • 4 out of 5 – good. Very nice, will definately return. When you go dining out “for real”, not just for a quick snack.
  • 5 out of 5 – excellent. These are perfect for special occasions or taking VIPs out to eat.

In borderline cases, half-points and +/- adjustments are also awarded.