Make it great.

You’ve probably heard it before, and perhaps you believe this doesn’t apply to those in creative fields but I’ll say it again because I believe it’s more true for us: Take a Break! You deserve it. Your story deserves it. And you’ll come back with a fresh perspective to tackle the editing journey.

Listen to your story! Even if it’s just one chapter or less a day, take the time to listen or read your story out loud. Do all the plot points make sense? Are you hearing any strange gaps in storytelling or noticing any grammatical errors?

After you’ve listened, can you create a chapter by chapter summary? Try to create a reverse outline. Your story has something to share with you!

You know that section you said you’d write when you were feeling more inspired? Or that scene you know felt flat and now have to go back to? Tackle those first. Focus on plot points, characters, any political or magical systems, themes, & purpose. Remember to keep it all consistent & clear, which is step 4.

Throw away the rule book, for now at least. Seriously-ish. Let yourself play with words if it augments and propels your story. Sure, you’ll need a good grasp of the language you’re writing in, but don’t let it deter you. Instead, keep it consistent. Consistency and Clarity are key. Did you write brown eyes in chapter 1 but green in chapter 17? Make sure to double check. It helps to have a style guide here or a Book Bible.

Sure, this could have been step number one, but I write it here because it’s good to remember even at the very end. There’s a reason for your story. A story you know so well only YOU can write it. If something within your manuscript doesn’t fit your purpose, remove it. If you haven’t, make sure to have a list of things that are crucial to your story. Let it guide you.

When you remember your purpose it’s easier to cross your Ts and dot your Is.

If you’re ready, hand over your draft to your editor!