How to Edit Your Own Book for a Polished Final Draft

how to edit your own book
by David Harris // March 6  

So, you’ve just finished writing your manuscript and are feeling like a literary rockstar. But now comes the hard part: editing your book. The task can feel overwhelming, and the challenges can seem insurmountable. But don’t worry—editing your work is not only possible, it can also be empowering.

You can edit your book effectively by approaching the task methodically and with fresh eyes. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you tackle your manuscript with confidence.

Step-by-Step Guide to Self-Editing Your Book

  1. Take a Break
    After completing your first draft, set it aside for a while. This distance helps clear your mind and allows you to return to the manuscript with a fresh perspective. Let’s say you finish writing your book on a Friday—take the weekend off, and dive back in on Monday. You’ll see things you missed before.
  2. Print It Out
    Editing from a screen can be tempting, but printing your manuscript offers a different experience. There’s something about the feel of paper that might help your eyes catch errors faster. Imagine you’re editing like it’s the 1990s, red pen and all! You might discover clunky sentences and typos that were invisible on your screen.
  3. Read Aloud
    Your ears can be great editors. Reading your manuscript aloud can highlight awkward phrasing and pacing issues. If you stumble while reading, it’s likely your readers will too. Simply say the words out loud—whether you feel silly talking to yourself or not—and listen for those troublesome bits that just don’t sound right.
  4. Focus on Structure
    Examine your chapters. Do they flow smoothly from one to the next? Verify that each chapter has a clear purpose and contributes to the overall story. For example, if you’re writing a mystery, each chapter should build suspense and intrigue. Consider this like laying out a puzzle—every piece should fit together seamlessly.
  5. Check Character Development
    Your characters should evolve and resonate with readers. Ask yourself if they are believable and dynamic. If your protagonist starts as a timid mouse, make sure they gradually become more assertive. Imagine if Harry Potter remained scared of everything—would we call him the Boy Who Lived? No, we love him for his growth!
  6. Refine Dialogue
    Dialogue should sound natural, revealing character and moving the plot forward. Eavesdrop on conversations around you and take notes on how people converse. For instance, if you’re writing a conversation between two friends, remember they don’t have to be formal. Add humor, colloquialisms, or interruptions to mimic real life, and don’t be afraid to let your character be a little quirky!
  7. Eliminate Redundancies
    Cut any repetitive phrases or ideas. If you find yourself repeating concepts, strengthen them instead of dragging them out. For example, instead of saying “The car was fast and speedy,” just stick with “The car was fast.” Be ruthless; it’s your job to make the final cut.
  8. Tighten Your Prose
    Aim for clarity and conciseness. Go through each sentence and verify whether every word serves a purpose. Ask: Is this sentence necessary? If the answer is no, it gets the axe. Use strong verbs and eliminate unnecessary adjectives. For example, instead of “He ran very fast,” just say, “He sprinted.”
  9. Consistency Check
    Ensure consistent use of terms, names, and stylistic choices. Are your characters’ names spelled the same throughout? Is your tone in line with the genre? A thriller should feel different from a rom-com. Consistency builds trust with your readers.
  10. Use Tools Wisely
    Various editing tools can assist you, such as Grammarly, Hemingway, and ProWritingAid. Use these as aids, but don’t rely solely on them. They’re like training wheels; ultimately, your judgment is what matters.
  11. Seek Feedback
    Once you’ve done your best, find a few trusted beta readers to look at your work. Choose people who enjoy your genre and can provide constructive criticism. Maybe a fellow bookworm or your uncle Bob, who’s too honest for his good—both can offer useful insights.
  12. Create a Checklist
    Having a checklist of common mistakes can help during your final edits. This list might include common grammar mistakes, plot holes, or inconsistent character behavior. Refer to this list as you comb through your manuscript again. Think of it as your editing Sherlock Holmes detective kit!

Pros & Cons of Self-Editing

Pros:

  • Creative Control: You get to decide which paths to take in your manuscript without the influence of others.
  • Cost-Effective: You save money by not needing to pay a professional editor right away.
  • Deep Understanding: You know the story and characters better than anyone. This flow of knowledge aids in making informed choices during the editing process.

Cons:

  • Bias: You are too close to your work to catch errors easily. It’s like seeing your child in a school play—you can’t help but overlook their onstage blunders!
  • Fatigue: Reading your writing multiple times can lead to fatigue, causing you to miss mistakes. This is where breaks come in handy.
  • Overwhelm: Editing can be a daunting task that leads to frustration. Keep your positive affirmations handy! You wrote a book; you’re basically a wizard!

Best Practices for Effective Self-Editing

  • Edit in Stages: Don’t try to edit everything at once. Break it down into manageable parts. First, focus on major structural changes, then refine dialogue, followed by grammar and spelling.
  • Set Timers: Consider the Pomodoro Technique to stay focused. Set a timer for 25 minutes of editing, followed by a 5-minute break. You’ll be amazed at how much you get done!
  • Stay Organized: Keep all your versions well-documented. Save significant changes in different files or use track changes on Word. You don’t want to accidentally revert to an earlier draft where your protagonist had a pet rock!

Potential Pitfalls to Avoid

  • Ignoring the Bigger Picture: Don’t get bogged down in minor errors at the expense of larger issues like plot holes or character arcs.
  • Editing Too Soon: Editing immediately after writing will cloud your judgment. Give your work the time it needs to breathe.
  • Refusal to Cut: Sometimes, you may need to get rid of scenes or characters that don’t serve the story. Remember, killing your darlings can be tough but necessary for a better book.
  • Neglecting Grammar and Typos: If you’re not careful, simple typos can distract readers from your message. So, double-check even if it feels tedious!

Additional Tips for Self-Editing Success

  • Use Different Tools: Consider using sticky notes or colored pens to flag sections that need work. If you prefer a digital approach, harness the power of comment features in documents to make notes for yourself.
  • Stay Positive: Editing is about improving, not just detecting flaws. Celebrate each progress checkpoint, and reward yourself with a delicious coffee or snack break!
  • Give It a Second Look After a Rest: The final touch is often where you’ll notice those pesky last-minute mistakes. After you think you’re done, come back one last time. It’s crucial for perfection!

Editing your manuscript may seem like a Herculean task. Still, with patience and a methodological approach, you can polish your work into a gem ready for publication. So grab that red pen, and let’s make your manuscript shine!

Troubleshooting Common Issues When Editing Your Own Book

Editing your own book can feel like solving a Rubik’s Cube blindfolded—challenging but satisfying once it all clicks. Here are some real-world scenarios you might encounter and how you can tackle them.

1. Inconsistencies in Character Details

Imagine you’re halfway through your manuscript and suddenly realize your character, Jane, has blue eyes in Chapter 3 but green eyes in Chapter 15. Yikes! To fix this, create a character sheet for each of your main characters. List their traits, including hair color, eye color, and any quirks. Refer back to it as you edit to ensure consistency throughout your book. If Jane’s eyes change color due to plot devices (like turning into a chameleon), make sure to explain it clearly and maintain that detail across your chapters.

2. Pacing Problems

You might notice that your readers are losing interest in Chapter 8. It feels like a slog. To adjust pacing, look for sections with overly long descriptions or unnecessary dialogue. Try reading them out loud—if you find yourself zoning out, your readers might too. Shorten long paragraphs or break them into shorter, punchier sentences. One reader might describe it as the “moments of boredom” syndrome; if that’s the case, it’s time to add a dash of action or a fun plot twist to keep things lively.

3. Too Many Adverbs

You might love using adverbs (seriously, who doesn’t enjoy a good “ran quickly”?) until you realize they’re creeping into every sentence. It’s like adding sprinkles to a salad—not quite fitting! Go through your manuscript and highlight each adverb, then ask yourself if the verb can stand on its own without them. Instead of “said quietly,” try “whispered.” A stronger verb can often replace the need for an adverb altogether, giving your writing a cleaner, sharper look.

4. Dialogue That Doesn’t Sound Natural

Sometimes, your characters might have dialogue that reads like a robotic script. To avoid this, consider recording yourself reading the dialogue out loud. Pay attention to how it sounds. Does it feel realistic? If characters are having a deep conversation at a coffee shop, it shouldn’t sound too formal. Make it relatable—think of how you actually talk with friends. If it feels stiff, rewrite it until it flows like a casual chat.

5. Plot Holes the Size of Texas

You’re cruising along with your plot until—bam!—a gaping hole appears. Maybe your protagonist suddenly has a superpower that nobody mentioned before. To fix this, take a step back and outline your story. Create a timeline of events. Ensure each plot point logically leads to the next. If the superpower’s introduction feels jarring, either place hints earlier in the story or cut it out entirely. Consistency is key!

6. The Overuse of “Said”

You might fall into the trap of using “said” so frequently that it starts to sound like a broken record. It can be helpful to switch things up, but do so sparingly! Instead of “she said” or “he said” after every line of dialogue, consider using action tags to show what your characters are doing as they speak. For example, instead of “I’m hungry,” he said, you might write, “I could eat a horse,” he said, rummaging through the fridge. It adds depth and keeps the reader engaged.

7. Overly Complex Sentences

You know those sentences that make your reader stop and re-read them three times? Yeah, those. If even you are scratching your head, it’s time for a rewrite. Aim for clarity. Break long sentences into shorter ones. For example, instead of “Despite the fact that the rain poured heavily and the wind howled, she continued to walk toward the station,” you could simplify to, “The rain poured, and the wind howled, but she kept walking to the station.” Clear and concise wins the race!

8. Typos That Seem to Multiply

You might have proofread your manuscript twenty times, yet those pesky typos still lurk. To combat this, change your medium: If you’ve been editing on a computer, try printing it out. The fresh view can help you catch mistakes you might have missed. Alternatively, read your manuscript backward—yes, backward—sentence by sentence. It forces you to focus on the text itself rather than the story, making typos jump out like an unscheduled pop quiz.

When tackling your self-editing journey, approach each of these common pitfalls with a mix of diligence and a sprinkle of humor—because if you can’t laugh at the number of times you used “smiled” in the first draft, it might just be a long road ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Related to How To Edit Your Own Book

Q. What’s the first step in editing my own book?
A. Start by putting your manuscript aside for a while. A few days or weeks away will help you come back with fresh eyes. It’s like letting your writing take a nap!

Q. Should I edit for grammar and style first or focus on content?
A. Focus on content first! Addressing big-picture issues like plot holes or character development is more important than worrying about grammar. After all, polishing a rough draft that still requires significant work is challenging!

Q. How can I spot typos or grammatical mistakes in my writing?
A. Reading your work out loud can help you catch errors. If it sounds wrong, it probably is! Additionally, it offers an opportunity to hone future audiobook narration skills.

Q. Is it helpful to have someone else review my manuscript?
A. Absolutely! A new perspective can detect errors and offer valuable feedback. Just remember to pick a reader who will be honest and not just give you a compliment sandwich!

Q. How do I avoid getting overwhelmed while editing?
A. Break it down into smaller tasks. Set goals like “I’ll edit one chapter today” instead of saying “I’ll finish the whole book.” Rome wasn’t edited in a day, after all!

Q. Should I use editing software, or is a good old-fashioned printed page better?
A. Both have their merits! Editing software catches a lot of errors but might miss context issues. A printed page is great for seeing the big picture. Use both for maximum efficiency!

Q. Can I edit too much and ruin my voice?
A. Yes, you can! Just be sure to trust your instincts. If a section feels off after several edits, step back and ask, “Is this still me?” If it isn’t, it’s okay to dial it back!

Q. What’s a common editing mistake I should look out for?
A. Overusing adverbs! If you find yourself modifying verbs with “very” or “really,” it might be time to punch up your verbs instead. Save some adverbs for when you’re out on the town, not in your writing!

Q. How can I know when my book is ready to be published?
A. When you’ve gone through it several times, had others read it, and you can’t find any more changes you want to make. If your heart races at the thought of someone reading it, congratulations, you’re almost there!

Q. What’s one final tip for editing my own book?
A. Keep your reader in mind. Ask yourself, “What’s in it for them?” If your edits are improving their experience, you’re on the right track! Happy editing!

Conclusion

Editing your own book might seem like looking for a needle in a haystack, particularly when that haystack consists of your own words. But with patience, a clear process, and a dash of humor, you can polish your draft into a shining gem. Remember to take breaks, use tools to assist you, and don’t be afraid to ask others for feedback. The more layers you peel back, the better your story will become. So grab that red pen (or your favorite editing tool), channel your inner critic, and prepare to turn your manuscript into a masterpiece. Happy editing!

About the Author

David Harris is a content writer at Adazing with 20 years of experience navigating the ever-evolving worlds of publishing and technology. Equal parts editor, tech enthusiast, and caffeine connoisseur, he’s spent decades turning big ideas into polished prose. As a former Technical Writer for a cloud-based publishing software company and a Ghostwriter of over 60 books, David’s expertise spans technical precision and creative storytelling. At Adazing, he brings a knack for clarity and a love of the written word to every project—while still searching for the keyboard shortcut that refills his coffee.