For many writers, the task of editing can feel tedious and overwhelming. Editing, after all, is a space of slow and somber reflection, correction, and purification. It’s where sentences are polished, grammar is improved, and the meaning of the piece – codified. It may not be the romantic picture of writing that many of us visualized as we began our endeavors. Still, ask nearly any successful writer and they’ll tell you editing is where writing happens.
Whether you’re crafting messages for a corporation or a small business, spending time editing will improve the quality and clarity of your message.
Here are a few editing tips to consider:
1) Hold off on editing until you get to the editing stage. Give yourself space and freedom to allow your writing to take shape before beginning the editing will allow for a fuller piece, which can be sharpened and refined later. While some writers prefer to edit as they go, conventionally, getting a first draft written before moving on to the editing stage will give your creativity and voice room to breathe.
2) Once you have a draft, consider reading your work aloud. Have a trusted friend or colleague read your writing aloud. This allows you to hear what your writing sounds like outside your head, enabling you to identify confusing sentences, places of repetition, gaps in communication, and/or funky flow. One of the most powerful aspects of adding another reader to your work is that, if your reader stumbles, there is something they stumbled over.
3) Go slow. Line-by-line editing may feel slow, but there’s no better way to ensure a good product. Slow down and take care to ensure each sentence is clear and well communicated. It will always be worth your time.
4) Resist the use of slang, cliches, passive voice, and other confusing or limiting language. While this terminology may feel natural, it risks losing your readership rather than drawing them in. Use editing as a chance to eliminate these pitfalls and sharpen your writing.
5) Ask for help. There are many resources available for help with editing. Everything from online writing groups, freelance proofreaders, editors, and writing tutors, to AI-powered grammar and typo editing services are available. Here are a few of the most popular resources for online editing help: Fiverr, Freelancer, and Grammarly. But there are many more. Make sure to get quotes on pricing (whether by the page, the word, or by the hour) and a ballpark on timelines before you commit.
If you have questions about proofing or editing your work you can always reach out to us here at Writers Block, we’re here to help.
Happy editing!