Proofreading and Editing Your Writing

 

It's time to talk about editing once again. Editing is important not just today, but every day. Gone are the days when you were such a beginner that you thought the first draft and final draft were one and the same. Any successful writer would put a gold star next to editing in a list of what writers should do. I would also add proofreading.

What is the difference between proofreading and editing? When you proofread a piece, you're looking for mechanical errors like spelling and punctuation. In editing, you are looking for clarity and whole ideas that need revision. You're looking for awkward sentences. For me, proofreading is just a subheading under editing. 

Our poster photo today tells us we should edit because it is the right thing to do. I agree. It is the right thing to do if you want to have a chance at having your work accepted for publication. It is the right thing to do if you want to have a piece of writing that you can be proud of. It's the right thing to do because you should always strive to be the best you can be. 

What should you look for when proofreading and/or editing?

A. Spelling errors--most word programs have a spell check

B. Proper punctuation--if this is a problem for you, make an effort to learn the rules, then use them

C.  Repetition of words close to one another. So easy to do and just as easy to remedy.

D.  Awkward sentences--the writer understands, but you must make sure the sentences are clear to the reader.

E.  Overly long sentences and incomplete sentences. An occasional incomplete sentence used for effect is alright.

F.  Redundancy of points made or ideas.

G.  Looking for sensory details--add some or delete if overdone

H.  Get rid of the parts that are extraneous.

I.   Replace as many passive verbs with active ones as possible.

J.  Pare down the number of adjectives used for each noun. One is good, two is alright at times, but three is over the limit.

K.  Check dialogue for content--is it clear, is it necessary. Check for proper punctuation in dialogue

L.  Cut words if you are writing for a specific word count and you have run over.

Yes, there are a great many things to be checked after that first draft is written. If you take the time to do a good proofreading and editing, you'll have a stronger piece of writing that should be something you are ready to submit for publication. After the final proofreading, of course!