Writers, whether experienced or new, frequently come across this problem. It’s easily done, I’m sure we’ve all been guilty of doing it. What is it? Overwriting. In this post, we’ll take a look at how to identify and remove instances of overwriting from your manuscript.
Category Archives: Writing
Suddenly, the editor deleted my words
A client recently asked me if I ever have an opinion on certain words. I don’t. Words are there to communicate a message – to tell a story. I do not sit with a dictionary ticking off the words I love and scratching out the words I hate.
Except one.
How to understand my editing
Editors and proofreaders all work ever so slightly differently, especially when working with Word documents. Here is a quick guide to what all the marks on your manuscript mean. If there’s anything that doesn’t make sense, is confusing, or you are unsure of, always ask. I am always happy to answer questions.
Looking ahead to 2021
After the year that was, I expect we are all looking forward to a different 2021. I hope that, for you, 2020 wasn’t too hard. I hope that you’ve managed to keep safe and well and those who you love have done so to.
A Very Sweary Dictionary
When I’m editing or proofreading, I’ll use a variety of tools and reference materials in order to get things right. Along with spelling, one of the biggest things to watch for is hyphenation, closing up or opening up of words.
On LGBTQ+ Editing: The importance of it all.
In this final part, we’ll look at why LGBTQ+ editing is so important and what you can do if you’re not an expert. In this miniseries we have explored LGBTQ+ characters and language. If you haven’t already, take a look at the previous posts and subscribe to get all the latest blog posts direct to your inbox.
On LGBTQ+ editing: Language
What is the language of an LGBTQ+ book? What makes it authentically LGBTQ+?
On LGBTQ+ editing: Characters
This is the first in a mini-series of posts looking LGBTQ+ fiction editing. By LGBTQ+ fiction, I mean any fiction that features LGBTQ+ characters. From erotica to science fiction, stopping off at romance, fantasy and historical. No genre should now be without LGBTQ+ representation.
Commas and adjectives
When do you need to use a comma when listing adjectives and why do you see no comma between some adjectives?
Self-publishing skills: Publicity
After all that hard work and investment, you can’t afford to sit back and expect the readers to fall at your feet: it’s time to start shouting about it. We’ll look at the specifics of selling in the following post, so make sure you come back for that one. Today, we’re simply looking at publicity.
