Self-editing is an integral part of refining and polishing your manuscript. In the next series of newsletters, we’ll delve into the process of self-editing, equipping you with the tools and knowledge needed to transform your draft into a polished piece of writing you’re ready to share with a professional editor.
This first edition lays the groundwork for successful self-editing, highlighting preparation strategies that are often overlooked but are crucial for a thorough and effective revision process. By understanding these initial steps, you’ll set a solid foundation for the detailed editing work to come.
How to Prepare for the Self-Editing Process
Step Away from Your Story: Before diving into the editing process, it’s crucial to take a step back and create some distance between you and your manuscript. After spending so much time engrossed in your story, this break is a well-deserved celebration of your accomplishment. Use this time away to refresh your perspective and to rest. You’ll find that gaining objectivity and a fresh view of your work is much easier once you’ve had some space from your completed draft. The length of time is completely up to you, but I recommend a minimum of a week.
Embrace the Revision Process: Embarking on the journey of self-editing your fiction is not just a task—it’s a path to personal growth as a writer. This process deepens your grasp of writing techniques and the nuances of your chosen genre, enriching your future works. Embracing the editing craft can be a surprisingly fulfilling experience. There’s a wealth of craft books and resources available to fuel your editing journey. Dedicate time to explore these materials; they can be a source of inspiration and guidance as you refine your manuscript.
Understand Your Target Audience: In a previous newsletter, I discussed writing vs revising for your audience. If you haven’t yet taken the time to identify and research your audience, it’s important to do so before starting the revision process. Reflect on the preferences and reading habits of your target audience. What types of books captivate them? What draws them into a story? What elements keep them engaged and eagerly turning pages? Understanding these aspects will sharpen your editing focus and align your story more closely with reader expectations.
Give Yourself a Timeframe: Once you’re ready to start self-editing, set a date for when you’d like to finish revisions by. It’s common to hesitate in sharing your story, pondering over its readiness. When editing, you may feel like the manuscript is never done. So you must decide to be done, and when. A deadline can also help you to avoid losing momentum, as it acts as a valuable tool to maintain focus and drive.
That’s all for part one!
In the next post, we’ll go over a systematic self-editing method consisting of three phases: structure, scene, and style.
For more assistance in your editing journey, check out the manuscript editing services at PassKey Publishing. Let’s bring your story to its fullest potential together.
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