Editing
Editing the Lies by Pamela Mytroen
Fear has lied to us about our writing. It is time to edit those lies and re-write truth on our hearts and minds instead. Cycle of Lies/Cycle of Truth 1. I will not start writing because it has to be perfect. Re-write it into truth. “I will write to the best of my ability. It… Read more »
Add Shine with Revision by Violet Nesdoly
You’ve just had an amazing idea. Like a good writer, you jotted it in your notebook and later wrote about it. Trouble is, your piece didn’t turn out nearly as brilliant as you thought it would. Before you “Delete” or toss your handwritten draft into the round file, try revision on it.
Develop the Killing Instinct Part II: Fine-Tuning with a Jack-Knife — Pamela Mytroen
In Part I of “Develop the Killing Instinct” I suggested writers use a sword to slash a large volume of words and distill the piece into one key sentence. This method slims a piece down to its purpose, allowing no extra fat, which editors appreciate. Only then may the writer pull out the jack-knife to… Read more »
When and How NOT to Do It Yourself — Jack Popjes
Writers want to grow in skills, become more professional, and be published. Some of us may still be amateurs, but all of us want to improve in every area of the writing profession. Whoa! Wait a minute! Every area? Is that realistic? Is that doable? Is that even wise? I know some people are described… Read more »
Develop the Killing Instinct: Reducing the Word Count — Pamela Mytroen
How does a writer keep to the posted word count without losing all those inspired phrases? And why does it matter? Editors have reasons for setting a maximum word count. Besides the premium of space in a publication, a stipulated word count attracts and creates writers with clear and effective writing. Slashing words from a… Read more »
The Elusive Comma — Carolyn Wilker
In writing classes, particularly when it comes to grammar, we often get in a discussion over commas. While one throws up her hands and says, “Let the editor fix it,” another asks, “Tell me again where they go.”
3 Editing Tips to Eliminate Extra Words — Carolyn Wilker
You’ve looked through the guidelines and editor’s notes a second time after researching, outlining and writing the article, and you realize there’s one thing you missed, or forgotten. There are at least a hundred more words than the editor wants.