 Self-editing is invaluable. It saves you time, and it saves you money when you begin moving through the editing process. In fact, one of the most common misunderstandings I encounter is authors seeking a manuscript evaluation when they would actually benefit from a developmental edit. So, what’s the difference? Hint: Self-editing plays a big role. Let’s unpack the benefits of self-editing and dig into some easy and effective tips you can start applying today. Who Benefits from a Self-Edit? The short answer: every author. Self-editing is the single most effective method for reducing your editing expenses. It helps you flesh out missing components in your characters, setting, scenes, and plot. And it allows you to deliver a more well-developed story for your readers. How Can a Self-Edit Save Me Time and Money? Let’s go back to our initial point. Frequently, I’ve been contacted for a manuscript evaluation when the author needs a developmental edit or book coaching. They wrote the manuscript and immediately sought editorial help. And that’s great. There’s nothing wrong with seeking a professional editor right away, but it will cost more. You see, editing isn’t a one-time event. It’s a journey. It takes multiple passes through a manuscript to make it into the best version it can be. Even for best-selling authors. If you are willing to make some of those editing passes on your own by utilizing the self-editing tips here, you will save time by reducing the number of passes back and forth with an editor. And you will save money by doing the heavy lifting yourself. No one knows this story better than you. And while there comes a time when you need to pursue professional editing to make your story shine, initially, you can do so much to grow and develop your story by simply using the tips provided here. So, back to the example. How does an author know if they need to pursue a developmental edit or a manuscript evaluation? Developmental edits are best for first-time authors and those who don’t have access to reliable alpha readers to provide initial feedback on the story. It is not helpful (or economical) for me to tell you that you need to turn passive voice into active voice or balance your dialogue and narrative when the manuscript has giant plot holes. Developmental edits or even book coaching are best at this stage. Manuscript evaluations are a less in-depth and less costly version of a developmental edit. For authors who have a completed manuscript, have used alpha readers to uncover any plot inconsistencies or character issues, and have self-edited and improved the manuscript the best they can, a manuscript evaluation is the next step. This is also often a good choice for authors who have already written and published previously and have a good understanding of story structure. Taking the time to effectively edit your manuscript before contacting a professional editor means you may be able to seek a manuscript evaluation rather than a more in-depth developmental edit. Manuscript evaluations take less time and cost you less money. Win-win. Tips for a Successful Self-Edit So, now that we’ve covered the benefits of a self-edit, how do you get started? Get Some Distance The first step is to get away from the manuscript for as long as possible. Put it in a drawer and leave it for several weeks at least. You need time away from the story to edit objectively. Your brain and eyes need time to be refreshed. You want to be in a position to view the story through your reader’s eyes, and you can’t do that if you’re too close. Change Your Perspective Next, read through the manuscript as a reader. It is helpful to use a format that will make it more difficult to edit as you go. You want to hear the whole story as it is currently structured. It will allow you to recognize plot holes, unfinished threads, inconsistent information, head-hopping, flat character arcs, or sagging structures. One option may be to print out the manuscript. This allows you to take some light notes as you go without getting caught up in the editing process. Another option may be to use a feature such as Read Aloud in Word. You can listen to your document rather than reading it, providing you with the opportunity to hear inconsistencies or missing information in your manuscript. Whatever method you choose, your goal is to experience the manuscript as one of your readers. Know What to Look For As you read through the manuscript, analyze the structure.
Next, look at characters.
Finally, review the setting and story world you’ve created.
Review Your Plan After you have created a revision plan, take a look at what needs to be added, cut, or rewritten. Focus on one issue at a time. Cut your plan into bite-sized pieces with the biggest issue being addressed first. You don’t want to work on sensory details when your plot has holes or unfinished threads. Work big to small. Give yourself time. And be ruthless, or at the very least, as objective as possible. If a scene or character doesn’t enhance the story, consider cutting it. Enlist Help If you have difficulty resolving a specific issue, enlist the help of a book coach. This is often an affordable option when you need input in a specific area before submitting your book to a developmental editor. Most importantly, take time to pray about the direction of your manuscript. Ask God to guide your hand as you make revisions. After all, he put the story on your heart. He will help you bring it to completion. Conclusion: Developing Your Story Shine Self-editing is more than a second or third look at your manuscript. It’s a tool. A resource to help your story become the best it can be. It sets you apart as a professional author. It grows your skills. And it builds your confidence as you prepare for professional editing. Categories
0 Comments
Your comment will be posted after it is approved.
Leave a Reply. |
About MeNycole Sinks is the owner and editor for Positive Proofing. With a background in business and education, she has a passion for helping authors share their stories with the world. 
Archives
May 2025
Categories |
RSS Feed