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This week's #WednesdayWritingTips are about editing, as requested!
You've done draft one. You're staring at the manuscript. What on earth do you do now?
You've done draft one. You're staring at the manuscript. What on earth do you do now?
Everyone's methods of editing are different, and there is no right or wrong way to do it. These suggestions are some of the things I do. Editing process can also be different for different books, so always start with an open mind.
#WednesdayWritingTips
#WednesdayWritingTips
1) Back up EVERYTHING
As you tinker with the drafts, adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing your text, keep the different versions. If you have to cut a bit you like, save it in a 'Bits I Like' document for future ref. There's a reason you like it.
#WednesdayWritingTips
As you tinker with the drafts, adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing your text, keep the different versions. If you have to cut a bit you like, save it in a 'Bits I Like' document for future ref. There's a reason you like it.
#WednesdayWritingTips
2) Be honest with yourself
Can't say this enough. We usually have a nagging feeling that something isn't working but can often ignore it. Address that sooner rather than later to save time and BEFORE you submit anywhere.
#WednesdayWritingTips
Can't say this enough. We usually have a nagging feeling that something isn't working but can often ignore it. Address that sooner rather than later to save time and BEFORE you submit anywhere.
#WednesdayWritingTips
3) Go through area by area
Some people like to go through a draft several times, focussing on a different aspect each time to make it less daunting. e.g. checking plot, then finessing character, then theme, voice, word count, etc. It's another method to try!
#WednesdayWritingTips
Some people like to go through a draft several times, focussing on a different aspect each time to make it less daunting. e.g. checking plot, then finessing character, then theme, voice, word count, etc. It's another method to try!
#WednesdayWritingTips
4) Focus and streamline
Check that everything is there for a reason. Does every scene move forward plot? Or develop character? Or explore theme? Or build the world? Or bring humour? If not, is it slowing pace?
#WednesdayWritingTips
Check that everything is there for a reason. Does every scene move forward plot? Or develop character? Or explore theme? Or build the world? Or bring humour? If not, is it slowing pace?
#WednesdayWritingTips
5) Re-place favourite bits
If there's a part you like, but it's slowing down the pace where it is, try weaving it into another section of the story. Is there a quiet moment you could use?
#WednesdayWritingTips
If there's a part you like, but it's slowing down the pace where it is, try weaving it into another section of the story. Is there a quiet moment you could use?
#WednesdayWritingTips
6) Double-check
If you're cutting and pasting a lot, check for logic and continuity errors. You can do these as you go, but it's helpful to do a read-through near the end of the editing process, specifically focusing on continuity.
#WednesdayWritingTips
If you're cutting and pasting a lot, check for logic and continuity errors. You can do these as you go, but it's helpful to do a read-through near the end of the editing process, specifically focusing on continuity.
#WednesdayWritingTips
7) Don't Panic
Some people enjoy editing, some find it daunting. Often the first draft is about emptying our heads onto a page, so expect it to need a lot of work. Take it a step/session at a time, and know that in the end, your book will be much stronger.
#WednedayWritingTips
Some people enjoy editing, some find it daunting. Often the first draft is about emptying our heads onto a page, so expect it to need a lot of work. Take it a step/session at a time, and know that in the end, your book will be much stronger.
#WednedayWritingTips
8) Final thoughts
Draft 1: Write with your heart
Draft 2: Write with your head
Together, they make a great combination. Good luck!
#WednesdayWritingTips
Draft 1: Write with your heart
Draft 2: Write with your head
Together, they make a great combination. Good luck!
#WednesdayWritingTips
