"The first draft is just you telling yourself the story."
- Terry Pratchett
Editing is where the magic happens. It’s the step that turns your raw draft into a polished, cohesive manuscript ready for the world to see. Self-editing can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, it becomes an empowering part of the writing journey. Let’s dive into some practical self-editing tips that can help you strengthen your manuscript.
Tip 1: Take a Break Before You Start Editing
After finishing your manuscript, resist the urge to jump straight into editing. Instead, take a break. Stepping away from your work for a few days (or even a week) will allow you to return to it with fresh eyes. This time away helps you spot inconsistencies, awkward phrasing, and other areas that need improvement.
Taking breaks isn’t just about rest; it’s about gaining a new perspective. With a fresh outlook, you’ll see the parts of your manuscript that need work more clearly. This approach makes your editing process more effective and less overwhelming.
Tip 2: Start with Big-Picture Edits (Structure & Plot)
The first step in self-editing should always be a big-picture review of your manuscript. Look at the overall structure and plot to ensure they flow smoothly. Does your story have a clear direction? Is the pacing consistent, or do some sections drag on too long?
Focus on your characters’ growth arcs. Are they evolving throughout the story, or are they static? Be honest with yourself about what works and what doesn’t. This is the time to adjust scenes, remove unnecessary subplots, and clarify your narrative.
A strong structure is essential, and once it’s solid, you can move on to the smaller, more detailed edits. Without a strong foundation, no amount of fine-tuning will make your manuscript truly shine.
Tip 3: Polish Grammar, Spelling, and Punctuation
Once you’ve tackled the big-picture aspects, it’s time to focus on the details—grammar, spelling, and punctuation. These may seem like minor issues, but they can easily distract readers from your story. Poor grammar and careless spelling can also harm your credibility as a writer.
To catch errors, use tools like Grammarly or ProWritingAid. However, these tools aren’t foolproof. It’s important to read through your manuscript yourself to catch mistakes that automated tools might miss. Look out for common issues like comma splices, run-on sentences, or inconsistent tense use.
Tip 4: Read Aloud or Use Editing Tools to Catch Issues
One of the best ways to improve your manuscript is to read it aloud. Hearing your words helps identify awkward sentences, repetitive phrases, or areas where the flow feels off. If something sounds strange when spoken, it likely needs revision.
Additionally, make use of editing tools that can help with readability and sentence structure. Tools like the Hemingway App highlight overly complex sentences, passive voice, and sections that could benefit from simplification. These resources can guide you toward a clearer, more engaging manuscript.
Self-editing is an essential skill that every writer must develop. By taking breaks, focusing on big-picture elements first, and gradually refining the finer details, you can transform your draft into a manuscript that’s engaging, polished, and ready for submission. Editing is a craft that improves with practice. If you find yourself struggling, remember that every publisher (including us) should offer professional editing so you don’t have to be perfect right out of the gate. Your writing deserves to be the best it can be.
Ready to take your manuscript to the next level? If you’re interested in becoming a published author, we’re here to help you get started. We offer manuscript reviews at the start of our projects to provide as much support as we can before we even start the Editing Phase.
Submit your inquiry today and take the first step toward becoming a published author. We can’t wait to see where your imagination takes you!
Written by Jessica Cassick, M.S., PhD(c)
Jessica Cassick is the CEO of ImagineWe Publishers (Est. 2016), a mother (and soon-to-be wife), writer, scholar, and published author of several original books we’ve published since we first began. A passionate advocate for self-discovery, post-traumatic growth, and holistic success, she blends her academic expertise with her entrepreneurial journey. Jessica is currently finishing her PhD in Creative Leadership for Innovation and Change and writes on a variety of topics, from publishing insights to personal and professional growth strategies. Once a fast-paced achiever with a future-focused mindset, she is now learning to embrace the present, seeking balance, peace, and a deeper sense of purpose in both her professional and personal life.
