Write well. Write often. Edit wisely.
You’ll find a lot of articles at this blog that encourage the new writer. Writers come to writing for many reasons, and not all will have a background in writing, fiction, or literature. And while I will forever encourage writers to begin writing at any time and for whatever reason, I do want to further […]
Don’t bother trying to polish a first or second draft. Because of the changes you’ll make to subsequent drafts, a polish before its time is a waste of time.
Practice for both ball players and writers is a necessary activity. Don’t shortchange yourself and your skills by skipping writing practice.
Don’t apologize for your characters or try to hide or downplay the kind of people they are. Write characters and story events without hesitation.
Many writers have a “something other” that makes their writing style and their stories stand out. Explore your own something other and learn to play it up to create memorable fiction.
Help your readers by learning the rules. Sometimes even big publishers don’t edit as they should—therefore you’ve got to do it yourself. Bad grammar and punctuation can turn away even the most determined reader.
Links to useful articles on grammar, punctuation, and writing fiction, especially helpful for students and educators beginning a new school year.
Entertain the reader by telling a good story. Make readers want to read what you write.
When you’re in a position to tell writers that a story needs more work before it’s published, tell them. Don’t let writers strut proudly around thinking they’ve mastered storytelling techniques, the fiction elements, and grammar if they haven’t. Share your knowledge.
Any word or line of text in a fiction manuscript can be changed. There are no golden sentences or sacred utterings that should stand unchallenged as you rewrite and edit. Writers should expect that the first draft will need extensive changes.
The reader will focus on what stands out. Turn the reader's attention where you want it to go.
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freelance editors, and everyone who loves words
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Copyright © 2010-2018 E. A. Hill Visit Beth at A Novel Edit
Write well. Write often. Edit wisely.
