Writing can be one of the most fun jobs out there. The key is to know when to stop, and that comes from knowing how to edit and fine-tune your own work. This will give you peace of mind before you send it on. This is easier said than done; we have a few tips and tricks to share with you.
You reach a point where you just have to send it on and cross your fingers, otherwise you will forever be rewritingthe same piece.
Some might call it editing; others call it rewriting and fussing.
It is important for a writer to be able to edit their own writing even if they have an editor. Having some editing skills in your toolbelt might be the best way to save yourself from endless rewriting.
Don't move, because media update'sAlrika Möller provides some tips and tricks for editing your own writing below.
Create a checklist
Most writers are not editors by trade, so it helps to create a checklist of what you want to look for. Every writer has the thing they want to look for or address. Whether it is something that comes up in most of the feedback you receive, or a writing pet peeve you want to avoid, adding it to your list can remind you to keep an eye out.
If you are a more creative writer, you can sometimes fall into the trap of focusing on the creativity of it all and forget that grammar and spelling exist. It's okay — we have all been there, which is why you add spelling and grammar to the checklist.
Decide on the voice
No matter what kind of writing you are doing — academic or creative — your writing will have a voice.
We can sometimes find ourselves jumping from one voice to another within the same piece. You start writing in one voice, and halfway through or after your coffee break it sounds like a whole other person. This is why we decide on an overall voice.
While deciding on one before you even start writing sounds like a good idea, we all know how things can change as you go. This is why we commit to an overall voice when editing. If you need a little reminder, it can help to write it down.
Fresh eyes can help
Nothing can complicate an editing process more than editing the momentyou finish writing. Your mind is not clear, and some of the words and images are still floating around in there, clouding clear judgement.
Take the time to clear your mind so that you don't read every word, knowing exactly what will come next. That is about the least objective thing you can possibly do.
Take a walk or go get a coffee. Start writing something else entirely, or put the project on pause until the next morning. You can do whatever you need to do to start anew and look at it with fresh eyes and a clear, hopefully, objective mind.
Take it line by line
We get that your piece is all about the big picture and how it all works as a whole; but when editing, that way of thinking is not always the best. The person reading it at the end won't have the big picture. They will read it line by line, which is ultimately how you should edit.
Working line by line is also a great way to find those pesky grammar errors or spelling mistakes. Editing your work is not about changing what you are saying but rather making sure that it reads easily and correctly.
Be open to digital tools
Many, many writers can be a bit sceptical when it comes to digital and AI tools, but the truth is that you have nothing to be scared of. As long as you use it in the right way, you don't have to worry about a programme taking your job or changing your content.
blogpay
Writing can be one of the most fun jobs out there. The key is to know when to stop, and that comes from knowing how to edit and fine-tune your own work. This will give you peace of mind before you send it on. This is easier said than done; we have a few tips and tricks to share with you.
Total Comments: 0