Alternative Phrase: Exploring Editing Choices: A Guide to Your Options
In the world of writing, publishing a manuscript is a significant milestone. But before you even consider taking that leap, it's essential to ensure your work is polished and ready for the eyes of readers. Here are four crucial steps to take before publishing your novel.
Firstly, complete your first draft. This is the foundation upon which you'll build your masterpiece. However, this article is not about writing a manuscript in 15 minutes, as another article might suggest. Instead, it focuses on the prerequisites for publishing.
Secondly, self-editing is an important part of the editorial process, but it does not replace the work of a professional developmental editor, copy editor, and proofreader. Effective self-editing techniques for a novel before professional editing include several key strategies.
Start by ensuring overall story coherence. Stick to your original outline or story problem to avoid unnecessary scenes that do not move the plot forward. Break your manuscript into manageable chunks such as chapters or scenes, and confirm that each part has a clear purpose, with varied pacing to maintain reader engagement.
Next, systematically revise your fiction elements. Adjust scenes when location, timeframe, or point of view changes; check pacing and scene length; focus on vital aspects like character actions, dialogue, background information, and tone; and avoid redundant or overly complex dialogue. Reading your manuscript aloud is highly recommended to catch awkward phrasing, pacing issues, and dialogue inconsistencies.
Digital tools can greatly support self-editing. They allow scene rearrangement, tracking changes, and managing research and notes in one place. Tools like Google Docs enable easy collaboration with beta readers by facilitating comments and suggestions in real time.
Thirdly, taking a break from the manuscript for a month or longer is recommended. This allows you to approach your work with fresh eyes when you return. During this break, consider joining a writing group for constructive criticism. A writing group can offer support and provide a variety of opinions and insights.
Lastly, remember that professional editing is specialized and can complement—but not substitute for—your self-editing efforts. A polished, well-structured, and thoroughly revised manuscript improves the effectiveness and value of any subsequent professional editing you undertake.
Katie McCoach, a member of Romance Writers of America and the Editorial Freelancers Association, emphasizes the importance of these steps. So, before you hit the publish button, take the time to self-edit, take a break, seek feedback, and consider professional editing. With these four things done, you'll be well on your way to publishing a successful novel.
This article provides links for sharing on various social media platforms (X, Facebook, Tumblr, Pinterest, LinkedIn, Reddit, Email). So, spread the word and help other writers on their publishing journey!
Books are essential for providing entertainment, and self-editing is crucial in ensuring that the first draft of a novel is polished and ready for professional editing. A well-structured and thoroughly revised novel will benefit greatly from professional editing, enhancing its quality and potential for success in the publishing world.
