Alternative Title: Exploring Self-Editing Choices
In the world of writing articles, understanding the importance of self-editing in the novel-writing process is crucial. This guide aims to help authors effectively prepare their manuscripts for professional developmental editors, potentially reducing costs and improving feedback quality.
Start with a Fresh Perspective
Before diving into the editing process, it's essential to let your manuscript rest for a few days or weeks. This break allows you to approach your work with fresh eyes, making it easier to spot issues that might have gone unnoticed.
Reading Aloud for Clarity
Reading your manuscript aloud can be a powerful tool in identifying problems with sentence flow, tone, and awkward phrasing. Hearing your words spoken can help you pick up on pacing issues and areas that may lack interest.
Evaluating Sections Critically
Another technique is to read sections backwards. This method disrupts habitual reading patterns, making it easier to evaluate each section on its own merits.
Multiple Revision Passes
Instead of trying to catch everything at once, make multiple revision passes. Start with large structural issues like character introduction, plot consistency, and pacing. Then, move on to smaller details.
Tailored Revision Checklist
Creating a tailored revision checklist can help ensure you don't miss any crucial elements. Focus on big-picture elements first, then move to smaller details.
Self-Editing Resources and Courses
Structured self-editing frameworks or courses can provide valuable guidance in spotting and fixing novel flaws. These resources can help you think like an editor and systematically strengthen your story.
Hiring a Professional Developmental Editor
After self-editing, it's time to bring in a professional developmental editor for expert, fresh feedback on structure and storytelling. This step can significantly improve your manuscript's quality before it goes to print.
Meet Katie McCoach
Katie McCoach, a member of Romance Writers of America and the Editorial Freelancers Association, has published her work in TrainWrite and Kalliope. She offers advice on editing, writing, and publishing through her blog. Katie's first draft of a contemporary romance novel is currently in progress. You can follow her on Twitter for more insights.
Additional Tips
Joining a writing group can offer constructive criticism and diverse opinions. Remember, revisions are necessary before professional editing.
Sharing and Connecting
This article is categorized under "Writing Articles." Feel free to share it on various platforms such as Facebook, Tumblr, Pinterest, LinkedIn, Reddit, Email, or follow Katie on Twitter.
For more tips on writing, editing, and publishing, check out our related articles: "Don't Even Think of Publishing Unless You've Done These 4 Things" and "What Can You Write in 15 Minutes?"
In the process of self-editing and preparing the first draft of a novel, authors might find it beneficial to utilize resources and courses that offer structured frameworks to help spot and correct novel flaws, thereby thinking like a professional editor. Upon completing such self-editing, it's advisable for authors to consider hiring a professional developmental editor, who can provide expert feedback on the structure and storytelling, enhancing the overall quality of the manuscript before it's published.
