Writing a manuscript is a monumental achievement, but the journey doesn’t end with the final word. Self-editing is a crucial step before sending your work to a professional editor. This process not only helps you refine your manuscript but also ensures that your story is as strong as possible before it undergoes further scrutiny. Here are essential steps to master the art of self-editing.

1. Take a Break

Believe it or not, the first step is, in fact, take a break. Before diving into self-editing, give yourself some distance from your manuscript. Taking a break allows you to return with fresh eyes and a clearer perspective. This break can be as short as a few days or as long as a couple of weeks, depending on your schedule. When you return, you’ll be better equipped to spot inconsistencies and areas that need improvement.

2. Read Through Completely

Start by reading your manuscript from start to finish without making any changes. This initial read-through helps you experience your story as a reader would. Take note of any plot holes, pacing issues, or character inconsistencies. This overview will guide your editing process and highlight the areas that need the most attention.

3. Focus on Structure

Ensure that your story has a solid structure. Check if your plot has a clear beginning, middle, and end, and if the pacing keeps readers engaged. Look for any scenes or chapters that feel out of place or unnecessary. Make sure each scene advances the plot or develops your characters. A well-structured story provides a strong foundation for further edits.

4. Refine Your Characters

Characters are the heart of your story. Ensure that each character is well-developed, with distinct voices and motivations. Check for consistency in their behavior and dialogue throughout the manuscript. Eliminate any unnecessary characters and combine roles if needed to streamline the story and maintain focus.

5. Strengthen Your Prose

Pay attention to your writing style. Look for repetitive phrases, clichés, and awkward sentences. Focus on clarity and conciseness, and eliminate unnecessary words. Vary your sentence structure to maintain reader interest. Strong, clear prose enhances the readability of your manuscript and keeps readers engaged.

6. Check for Continuity

Consistency is key in creating a believable world. Ensure that character names, descriptions, and locations remain consistent throughout the manuscript. Pay attention to timelines and the sequence of events to avoid confusion. Continuity errors can distract readers and undermine the credibility of your story.

7. Polish Dialogue

Dialogue should sound natural and reflect the personalities of your characters. Read your dialogue out loud to ensure it flows smoothly and sounds authentic. Remove any unnecessary dialogue tags and replace them with action beats to convey emotion and movement. Effective dialogue brings your characters to life and enhances the overall narrative.

8. Proofread for Grammar and Spelling

While a professional editor will catch many errors, it’s important to proofread your manuscript for grammar, spelling, and punctuation mistakes. You can use tools like grammar checkers, but it’s important not to rely solely on them. Reading your manuscript aloud can help you catch errors you (or AI) might otherwise miss. A clean manuscript shows that you take your work seriously and respect the editor’s time.

9. Get Feedback

Before sending your manuscript to an editor, seek feedback from beta readers or critique partners. Fresh perspectives can provide valuable insights and help you identify issues you might have overlooked. Be open to constructive criticism and use it to further refine your manuscript.

So What Does It All Mean?

Self-editing is an essential step in the writing process that prepares your manuscript for professional editing. By taking these steps—gaining distance, reading through your work, focusing on structure, refining characters, strengthening prose, checking for continuity, polishing dialogue, proofreading, and getting feedback—you’ll ensure that your manuscript is as strong as possible. Mastering the art of self-editing not only improves your current project but also hones your writing skills for future endeavors. With a well-edited manuscript, you’ll be ready to collaborate effectively with your editor and bring your story to its full potential.