In my latest video, I share my top 3 self-editing tips to whip your manuscript into shape before sending it to a professional editor.
I explain how to spot passive “to be” verbs (is, are, was, were, be, being, been, am) and convert them into stronger active verbs that energize your writing.
I also discuss the power of using vivid sensory details to draw readers in.
Finally, I advise avoiding info dumps and relying more on dialogue and action.
Watch now to improve your self-editing skills and prep your manuscript for the pros! Your future bestseller will thank you.
Hello, Jane Cleland here.
How can I effectively use self-editing tools before I submit my manuscript to a professional editor?
Well, first of all, congratulations for being aware that we need to edit ourselves, and congratulations for deciding to use a professional editor. This really shows a commitment to the process that I think is impressive.
First of all, you’ve used your spell checker. Let’s assume we’ve done that. Here are three additional suggestions:
Take a look at “to be” verbs: is, are, was, were, be, being, been, am. Those are passive, and active verbs are always stronger. So instead of saying, for example, The toddler was behind the sofa, think about an active verb. What was the toddler doing behind the sofa? He hid behind the sofa. He slept behind the sofa. He cowered behind the sofa. All stronger.
Make sure you’re using plenty of sensory references: What are people seeing, hearing, tasting, feeling, and smelling? The more sensory references, the better.
No info dumps: No overly long exposition or info dumps about backstory. Rely more on dialogue and action than exposition.
So those are my three tips: to be verbs, sensory descriptions, and reducing or avoiding info dumps.
Congratulations on finishing your manuscript! I know you can whip it into professional shape. Good luck with it.
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