Writing is Revising

In my NaNoWriMo series, I suggested writers put their rough draft aside for at least a month. It helps to have some distance from your manuscript before you start revising. But should you revise your story or work on something new?

I’ve been asked that question a few times from aspiring authors and I really wasn’t able to answer it. Then I stumbled on this article: “How to Tell If the First Draft of Your Novel Just Isn’t Worth Salvaging”? by Charlie Jane Anders. The author gives great advice and offers a few tips and tests to help you make that decision.

If you decide that yes, you want to work on this manuscript, here are a couple more links to help you. Remember that revisions are a necessary step in publishing your work and this is an opportunity to develop your skills.

Writing is Revising by Samantha Hunter. This explains the different types of revising.

Revision by Robin Perini. This explains how to analyze your story and improve it.

Revising isn’t easy. Sometimes it takes longer than actually writing the book! But it will make your story better.