Writing a novel is a two-part process. The first part is the exciting bit - the actual writing. The second part is slightly more laborious - the editing. However, if your novel is to be taken seriously, this is the most important aspect.
So here are ten of the best editing tips:
1. Re-read it.
Once you've completed the first draft of your novel, the major temptation is to send it out straight away. Don't! Be patient, and go through your manuscript line-by-line checking for any mistakes or inconsistencies. Editors will reward your efforts by reading your manuscript rather than binning it on the second mis-spelt page.
2. Check your grammar and spelling.
At the most basic level, editing is about spotting simple mistakes. You know the kind of thing. Writing 'there' when you mean 'they're' or 'their'. My boyfriend has just finished a novel and he talked about lots of different breeds of dogs and he had to check whether they had capital letters. Now that really was laborious.
3. Timing.
This is my most hated part of the whole editing process because it is something I always slip up on. Check when things are happening in your novel. Have you talked about a character going into work the next day when the next day is Sunday? Is it snowing in July? If so, change it.
4. Plot flaws.
The editing process is where you should work on any plot flaws. Characters who died in chapter two who are later spotted drinking coffee in chapter five, that sort of thing.
5. Adverbs.
I've said it before and I'll say it again, the fewer the adverbs, the sharper the read. It's as simple as that.
6. Be objective.
This is really hard. To pick up your novel and to pretend that you've never read it before and that you know no knowledge of the author. But believe me, if you can get into that mindset the results are often a lot better, if a whole lot more brutal.
7. Leave a gap.
After you've finished your first draft, try and leave a gap between writing and editing. A week, a fortnight, a month, whatever. Even if it's just a day it's better than starting straight. This way you will allow time for the manuscript to 'breathe', and you are more likely to be objective.
8. Location, location, location.
When you read through, do you always know where the characters are? And if not, is that an intentional effect or just sloppiness? Also, are the locations consistent? For instance, was the heroine's living room carpet pink on page 16 and orange on page 105?
9. Cut and paste.
Computers are the perfect editing tools as they allow you to cut and paste. Think of your novel as a jigsaw puzzle. It is very unlikely that all the pieces will be in the proper place right from the start. You can move paragraphs around and maybe even whole chapters until they feel right.
Also, don't be scared to cut some stuff for good. If a paragraph doesn't add something of real value to either plot, character or theme, then get rid of it.
10. Get a second opinion.
My boyfriend is the only person in my life brave or foolish enough to give me an honest opinion. If you know anyone who would be able to say anything other than 'Yes, it was good,' then give it to them to read. Only make sure an honest opinion is what you are really after!
Editing Tips