In this episode of Indie Author Blueprint, Michelle explores the nuances of self-editing your manuscript to make it shine before sending it to an editor. Learn essential strategies to enhance readability, improve structure, and fix common mistakes. No, it doesn’t replace hiring an editor, but you’ll discover valuable tools to help polish your writing and potentially reduce editing costs. Perfect for indie authors seeking to refine their craft and produce compelling, polished manuscripts. Join Michelle for practical insights to elevate your writing.
Topics Covered in this Episode
1. Structure and Flow
Clear Introduction and Conclusion
Logical Flow
Transitions
2. Voice and Style
Consistency
Point of View (POV
Show, Don’t Tell
3. Sentence Structure and Readability
Sentence Length
Active vs. Passive Voice
Clarity
4. Grammar and Punctuation
Spelling and Grammar
Punctuation
Overuse of Exclamation Points
5. Word Choice and Repetition
Avoid Redundancy
Avoid Clichés
Strong Verbs and Descriptive Language
6. Dialogue
Natural Sounding
Dialogue Tags
Pacing
7. Formatting and Consistency
Chapter Headings and Subheadings
Font and Style
Page Breaks
Self-Editing Tip Sheet
Looking for more? Look for the Self-Editing Tip Sheet post for paid subscribers. This printable guide is available for download at any time you start your subscription to Indie Author Blueprint on Substack.
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Elevate Your Writing with Self-Editing