Where do you begin to revise your first draft? Is there a step-by-step process to make the revision process less chaotic?
In this episode, I’ll walk you through 3 phases of revision, with actionable tips for turning your messy first draft into a polished manuscript.
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Episode at a glance:
[03:57] The Mindset Of Revision
Our first drafts are supposed to be messy. First drafts are for getting the story down, not getting it perfect. What you want to go for is momentum, not perfection.
Your early draft isn’t sacred. It’s the first stage of your story. Rewriting requires emotional distance, so the first step is to put the manuscript away for at least a few weeks before starting your revision.
[05:59] Phase 1: The Big Picture Rewrite
This is where you address structural and developmental issues in your story: character arcs, plot and pacing. Do the stakes escalate? Are there major turning points? Where? Learn the structural elements to implement in your big picture rewrite.
[11:02] Phase 2: The Scene Level Rewrite
Once the major structure is sound, you refine scene by scene. Does every scene have a story purpose? Does it deepen the character or escalate the conflict? Is every scene moving towards the culminating event at the end?
[13:52] Phase 3: The Line Level Rewrite
This is the editing and polishing stage, where you refine the language itself. Here you’re looking for clarity and precision, rhythm and flow. Learn how to make your sentences strong and vivid.
[13:52] Rewriting Tips and Tricks
Learn the 10 Percent Rule, the Highlighter Technique, and the Manuscript Surgery Tip.
Episodes Mentioned In This Episode
Episode 163: 5 Tips For Writing Stronger, More Structured Scenes
Episode 193: 5 Must-Have Scenes To Include In Your Story
Episode 112: 5 Tips For Writing Dynamic Dialogue
Episode 179: Writing Dialogue: 5 Do’s and Dont’s
Episode 56: 3 Quick Editing Tips To Craft Riveting Sentences
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