A Quick Reminder

By the time you reach the editing stage, I trust you’ve already combed through your lengthy manuscript and addressed those pesky typos that plagued your narrative. If you haven’t done that yet, please start there before moving forward.

While there are countless ways to edit, I’ll share the method that has proven most effective for me. However, it’s essential to find a technique that suits your personal style.

Print Your Manuscript

I could apologize for the environmental impact here, but remember, your final book will ultimately be printed, right? Holding a physical copy of your novel is one of the most effective ways to initiate the editing process. It enhances your focus on the story and prevents you from jumping into corrections immediately when you notice an issue.

This approach will also streamline the subsequent steps.

Gather Your Editing Tools

Before you dive into editing, take a stroll down the stationery aisle at your local store. There’s no need to overspend; a simple 50-cent notebook and a few colored pens will suffice. Aim for a red and black pen, along with one or two highlighters.

With your supplies ready, your printed manuscript in hand, some snacks, and your favorite beverage, you’re all set to begin your reading.

Read Without Making Edits

Prepare yourself; this step can be quite challenging. It’s time to shift from the mindset of a writer to that of a reader. Get cozy and read through your manuscript from start to finish. Keep your notebook handy to jot down page numbers of sections that require attention, but resist the urge to edit as you read. Focus solely on experiencing your novel as a reader would.

After spending so much time crafting your story, there may be elements that seem clear while writing but may not translate well in a reading context.

Start with the Big Picture

Now that you've completed your initial read-through, I hope you find enjoyment in your story—because you’ll be revisiting it several more times during this process.

Begin by focusing on the larger issues: identify plot holes, inconsistencies, pacing problems, and note any scenes that need to be added or removed. Consider whether certain passages are simply dumping information on the reader. Once you’ve made these observations, head back to your computer and start addressing the overall structure of your manuscript.

Focus on the Details

Think of this stage like a snowball melting in the warmth of spring. If you’ve made significant changes, consider printing a fresh copy. Once you’ve tackled the broad issues, it’s time to zoom in on the finer details.

A great technique is to read your manuscript aloud while guiding your eyes line-by-line with a ruler or a sheet of paper. This method helps catch errors you might have glossed over when reading silently. You’d be surprised by the number of glaring mistakes that can escape your notice!

One of my favorite strategies is to use a text-to-speech application to read my manuscript aloud while I follow along. This ensures I don’t rush through the text, even if it’s my hundredth read.

Utilize your red pen and highlighter generously during this phase.

Editing can often feel more daunting than the initial writing process, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Take it step-by-step, and remember, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone.

Consider printing multiple copies and exchanging them with critique partners. Organizing meet-ups to discuss your work over snacks and drinks can be both productive and enjoyable.

Best of luck!

With affection,

B.K. xo xo

P.S.:

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