This article is the first of a two-part series on the importance of using a professional editor. I’ll post the second part in late September. Self-editing, beta readers, and critique partners or groups are all an important aspect of the writing process. Each step has its own benefits. Some writers…
Critique groups. Critique partners. For many writers, the idea of joining such a group or linking with another writer is scary. New writers, in particular, may be hesitant about sharing their work. Some might be afraid of what other members will say or think. Still, others may feel inferior to…
Last week we discussed a few tips to help you create a good manuscript. This week we have more tips to keep you going. Keep it Simple Long words, complicated sentences, and off the cuff tags only distract the reader. Don’t force your audience to stop to look up words…
Every writer experiences it. Distractions. Anxiety. Doubt. It can come from anywhere. And it always come at the worst time. Honestly, writing success boils down to hard work, imagination and passion—and more hard work. Give yourself every chance possible to be successful. Use these tips as guide—or better yet, print…
You’ve finished the first draft, edited, re-written, and maybe even edited some more. You’re satisfied with the results, and now it’s finally time to send your manuscript to a publisher. Or in the case of self-published writers, time to format and upload into various online retailers. But before you do…
So last week we talked about ways to get a first draft into fighting shape as a manuscript. This week, we’re going to cover the last five tips about turning that manuscript into something worth submitting. Any manuscript in its final phase has been edited so many times the writer…
We all get them. The butterflies that populate our stomachs before submitting a manuscript to a publishing company. The process is nerve-wracking enough without second guessing our submissions. It all starts with the first draft. The brainstorming, stream-of-consciousness, and outlines have all been converted into an organized draft that resembles a manuscript. Now…
It may be the first time you’re tackling a writing project or the thousandth time, but you’re not alone. We are all guilty of it at some point. “Stream of consciousness” writing. We sit down and start writing whatever comes to our minds first. For a lot of authors, this…
Whether you are traditionally published or an Indie author, self-editing is an absolute must. While there is no substitute for hiring a professional editor, there are a few tips writers can do before submitting that manuscript to an editor, publisher, or even beta readers. Look for “crutch” words Every author…
