How to turn your messy first draft into something actually worth reading

Summary

In this 'WritersLife Wednesdays' video, Abbie Emmons shares her comprehensive process for transforming a first draft into a polished manuscript. She emphasizes the importance of decompression time, strategic revision with a clear plan, and the iterative nature of editing. Abbie also stresses the value of feedback from beta readers and the necessity of professional editing and proofreading. Her approach aims to make stories emotionally engaging and memorable, ultimately helping authors realize their author dreams.

Takeaways

• 📘 Completing a first draft is a significant accomplishment that deserves pride and recognition.
• 🔄 First drafts are inherently imperfect, but they hold the potential for greatness through the revision process.
• 🗓️ Decompression time, the period between finishing the first draft and starting edits, is crucial for gaining objectivity.
• 📝 Developing a revision strategy is essential; it's akin to remodeling a house—it requires a plan for the desired outcome.
• 🤔 Reflecting on key questions about the story, such as its strengths, weaknesses, and character development, guides the revision process.
• 📑 Printing and binding the manuscript can provide a tangible, less straining, and creatively freeing way to revise.
• 📈 Major adjustments to plot and character arcs are typically made during the revision stage, especially for older manuscripts.
• ✍️ Line editing involves a meticulous review of the manuscript for grammar, spelling, and stylistic issues.
• 📊 Feedback from trusted beta readers is invaluable for making the story more engaging and identifying areas for improvement.
• 👨‍🏫 Professional editing and proofreading are necessary steps to refine the manuscript and ensure a polished final product.
• 🔄 The editing process is iterative, with multiple passes focusing on different aspects of the manuscript from big picture to fine details.

Q & A

What is the purpose of 'WritersLife Wednesdays'?

The purpose of 'WritersLife Wednesdays' is to help writers make their stories matter and to help them achieve their author dreams by sharing tips and processes for writing and editing.

Why is it important to be proud of writing a first draft?

It's important to be proud of writing a first draft because it is a significant accomplishment, and it represents the foundation upon which a great story can be built.

Why are first drafts often described as a 'hot mess' and is that a problem?

First drafts are often described as a 'hot mess' because they are not meant to be perfect. It's a normal part of the writing process, and the potential for greatness is still present within them.

What is the significance of decompression time in the editing process?

Decompression time is the period between finishing the first draft and starting the editing process. It is important because it allows the writer to distance themselves from their work, enabling a more objective review and revision.

How long should the decompression time last before starting revisions?

The decompression time should last at least three to four months to give the writer a clearer and more objective perspective on their own writing.

What is the first step in the revision process according to the script?

The first step in the revision process is to develop a strategy or plan for the revisions, similar to having a blueprint for remodeling a house.

Why is it beneficial to print out and bind the manuscript during the revision process?

Printing out and binding the manuscript can reduce eye strain and make the text seem more pliable, allowing for easier adjustments, additions, and reworking of scenes.

What are some of the key questions to ask oneself during the revision process?

Key questions include what one loves about the story, why the story matters, problem areas, strong points, character development, and the ultimate vision for the book.

How does the speaker approach line editing in the editing process?

The speaker approaches line editing by going through the manuscript with a fine-tooth comb to look for and correct small issues like passive voice, excessive adverbs, weak words, continuity errors, spelling, and grammar.

What is the role of feedback in the editing process?

Feedback from trusted friends and beta readers provides objective opinions that can help improve the story further, making it more emotional, engaging, and memorable.

Why is professional editing and proofreading recommended in the editing process?

Professional editing and proofreading are recommended because they bring an expert's perspective to ensure the book reads smoothly and to catch errors that the writer might have missed.

What is the final step in the speaker's editing process before publishing?

The final step is for the writer to proofread their book themselves at least twice to catch any remaining errors before publishing.