Revising a novel can be a daunting process. Many writers finish their first draft and feel overwhelmed when faced with the task of making it better. The key problem is this: How do you take a rough manuscript and turn it into a polished piece ready for publication?
The answer is to approach revision with a structured plan that addresses various dimensions of your story. By breaking down the revision process into manageable steps, you’ll transform your rough draft into a compelling read.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Revision Process
Revision isn’t just about fixing typos or correcting punctuation. It’s a deep exploration of your story’s structure, characters, and themes. Let’s take a closer look at these aspects.
- Content Revision: Focus on your plot, characters, and setting. Ask yourself whether the story flows logically if the characters are fully developed, and if the setting enhances the narrative.
- Line Editing: This is where you look at sentence structure, word choice, and tone. The goal is to enhance clarity and improve the reading experience.
- Proofreading: The final step involves checking for grammar, spelling, and formatting errors before sending your novel off for publication or submission.
Guide to Revising Your Novel
Step 1: Take a Break
Once your first draft is complete, step away from your manuscript. Taking time away allows you to return with fresh eyes. This part of the process helps in identifying problems that might have been overlooked.
Example: A writer named Sarah finished her first draft in July. She set the manuscript aside for a month and used that time to read other books and recharge her creative batteries. When she returned, she was shocked to discover plot holes and character inconsistencies that she hadn’t noticed before.
Step 2: Learn to Love Feedback
Getting feedback can be tough, especially if it includes criticism. Yet, this step is essential. Share your manuscript with trusted beta readers or join a writing group. Gather their insights and suggestions; remember, the goal is to improve your work.
Let’s say you receive feedback stating that your protagonist is unlikable. Instead of getting defensive, consider how you might enhance their character. Perhaps they need a more substantial backstory or a relatable conflict. Use this feedback as a tool for growth.
Step 3: Structure Review
Rethink your novel’s structure systematically. This process can involve outlining your chapters, identifying key plot points, and examining pacing. A solid structure ensures your story maintains momentum.
Example: Consider hypothetical writer John, who had a great plot idea but scattered scenes. By creating a chapter outline, he mapped out his story arc, ensuring each chapter contributed to the overall theme. This not only improved coherence but also made spotting redundancies easier.
Step 4: Character Development Examination
Characters are the heartbeat of your novel. Revisit each character’s arc. Ask yourself questions like:
- Do they have clear goals?
- Are their motivations compelling?
- Do they evolve throughout the story?
If your character is stubborn and never changes, readers may find them frustrating.
Example: Take Lisa, a character in a romance novel. Initially, she was portrayed as aloof. Through revision, the writer layered moments of vulnerability that made Lisa more relatable.
Step 5: Focus on the Theme
Every story has themes, even if they’re not readily apparent. As you revise, identify the central themes of your novel. Reflect on whether they resonate throughout your narrative. Are they effectively communicated?
Example: Hypothetically, Nick discovered that his novel revolved around friendship and sacrifice but realized he hadn’t illustrated this through action or dialogue. So, he revised key scenes to showcase these themes better, providing depth and resonance to his story.
Step 6: Scene-by-Scene Analysis
Every scene in your novel must have a clear function. Take a red pen and evaluate each one critically. Does it drive the plot forward, develop characters, or enhance the theme? If not, consider cutting or rewriting it.
Example: Amanda found a lengthy scene that added little to her plot’s progression. She decided to cut it but used elements from it to enhance other, more impactful scenes. This approach kept the essence of the scene without dragging down the pace.
Step 7: Improve Dialogue
Dialogue should sound natural and align with each character’s voice. Go through each line and assess it. Is it engaging? Does it sound like how people actually speak, or does it feel stiff?
Example: A screenplay writer named Tom had a character who spoke in long-winded monologues. After revising, he trimmed his character’s dialogue, adding interruptions and humor to make it flow better. This approach aligned the dialogue with the character’s personality while maintaining reader engagement.
Step 8: Master the Art of Pacing
Pacing is critical in maintaining a reader’s interest. Examine whether your novel has a good rhythm. Does it slow down at vital moments, or does it rush through significant events?
Example: Consider a thriller writer named Kelly whose climax felt rushed. To improve pacing, she extended the build-up to the climax with suspenseful scenes. This built tension while keeping readers on the edge of their seats.
Step 9: Line Editing
Once the structural and thematic elements are in place, shift your focus to line editing. This part of the revision hones in on language. Examine every sentence for clarity, conciseness, and impact.
Example: Imagine Jeff, a science fiction writer, who had a habit of over-explaining concepts. During line editing, he focused on simplifying his language. By eliminating jargon and using direct phrasing, he made the story accessible to all readers.
Step 10: Final Proofread
After completing the content and line edits, it’s time for the final proofread. This step is all about catching any lingering errors, such as typos or grammatical mistakes.
Mark your manuscript and read it aloud. This technique helps identify awkward phrasing or hiccups in flow. For example, you may find an incorrect character name while reading a section aloud. This small detail could have confused your readers.
Step 11: Get a Professional Edit
Once you’ve done as much as you can, consider hiring a professional editor. They provide an objective view of your manuscript and identify weaknesses you might not notice.
Example: Brian sent his draft to an editor who pointed out unclear passages and provided suggestions. This professional insight helped him refine his work even further, making it ready for submission.
Step 12: Prepare for Submission
If you are looking to publish, take time to familiarize yourself with submission guidelines. Each agent and publisher might have specific requirements for format and content. Follow these guidelines precisely to increase your chances of acceptance.
Example: Sara meticulously reviewed her manuscript before sending it to agents, ensuring she met all submission requirements. This attention to detail helped her secure interest from several publishers.
Step 13: Stay Open to Further Revisions
Even after receiving feedback from agents or editors, be prepared to revise again. The publishing world often requires flexibility and willingness to adapt.
Example: John faced this multiple times when working with an editor who suggested major changes in character arcs. Instead of resisting, he embraced the feedback and ultimately ended up with a stronger manuscript.
Step 14: Celebrate Your Effort
Lastly, acknowledge the hard work you put into revising your novel. It’s a significant achievement to go through this extensive process, and it deserves recognition. Reward yourself for the dedication and creativity you’ve dedicated to your story.
Pros and Cons of Different Revision Strategies
Revising isn’t a one-size-fits-all situation. Here are some approaches, along with their pros and cons:
1. The Full Manuscript Approach
- Pros: It helps you see the overall picture and structure.
- Cons: It can be overwhelming if you fixate on the minute details early on.
2. Chapter-by-Chapter Approach
- Pros: Allows focused attention on specific parts and helps catch incremental issues.
- Cons: It may lead to a lack of cohesion in the overall story if not later reviewed as a complete work.
3. Feedback-First Approach
- Pros: Gaining outside input can shine a light on blind spots.
- Cons: Too many conflicting opinions can confuse and stall the revision process.
Common Pitfalls in the Revision Process
- Over-Editing: It’s possible to over-polish your writing, making it sound robotic. Keep the voice that makes your writing unique.
- Ignoring Theme: Don’t get so caught up in the mechanics that you lose sight of the message you want to convey.
- Avoiding Necessary Cuts: It’s hard to remove beloved scenes, but if they don’t serve the plot, decide to cut them.
Additional Tools and Resources
1. Manuscript-Review Software
Tools like ProWritingAid can help streamline the editing process by highlighting errors you might not easily notice.
2. Writing Groups and Workshops
Being part of a community can provide support and diverse feedback. Engage with other authors to share insights on the revision process.
3. Revision Checklists
Keep a checklist handy that covers the major areas to revise. This practice aids in staying organized and focused.
Troubleshooting Common Issues While Revising Your Novel
Revising a novel can sometimes feel like trying to navigate a maze with a blindfold. Here are some common issues you might encounter and straightforward strategies to tackle them.
1. Lack of Character Development
Issue: Your main character feels flat, and readers struggle to connect.
Solution: Dive deeper into your character’s backstory. Create a character profile that includes their dreams, fears, and motivations. Ask yourself what makes them tick and incorporate small details into your narrative. For instance, if your character is anxious, show this through their actions, like fidgeting or avoiding eye contact, instead of just telling the reader they are anxious.
2. Pacing Problems
Issue: The story is dragging in some spots and racing in others, making it hard for readers to stay engaged.
Solution: Identify scenes that feel excessive or underwhelming. If a chapter drags, consider cutting unnecessary dialogue or description. If a scene feels rushed, add more detail or a character’s internal thoughts to slow it down. Use the “scene checklist.” Does this scene advance the plot or develop character? If not, it may need a makeover or removal.
3. Plot Holes
Issue: A reader points out inconsistencies that leave them scratching their head.
Solution: Create a timeline of events to see how they line up. Highlight major plot points and look for gaps. Consider enlisting a trusted friend or fellow writer to read your draft for any confusing elements. If your detective character solves a case too quickly, ensure they’ve gathered enough clues for the resolution to feel earned.
4. Dialogue Sounds Stilted
Issue: Characters’ conversations feel unrealistic or clunky.
Solution: Read your dialogue out loud. If it sounds awkward to you, it probably will to your readers. Make sure each character has a distinct voice; consider their background, age, and personality. Use contractions and natural speech patterns to make dialogue feel more authentic. If one character uses formal language while others are casual, clarify that difference in their backgrounds or education.
5. Point of View Confusion
Issue: The narrative shifts between characters’ perspectives without clear transitions.
Solution: Stick to one point of view per scene or chapter. If you want to switch perspectives, use clear chapter breaks. Make sure each point of view adds something unique to the story and is easy to follow. If you’re using first-person narration, keep the focus tightly on that character’s thoughts and feelings; avoid slipping into other characters’ heads.
6. Theme Overload
Issue: Readers feel overwhelmed by themes that are not clearly defined.
Solution: Identify the core theme of your novel. Is it love, betrayal, or forgiveness? Once you’ve pinpointed the main idea, revisit your scenes and check how they connect to this theme. Simplifying your focus will help create a stronger narrative thread. If your theme is about redemption, ensure each character’s arc reflects this in a way that feels cohesive.
7. Inconsistent Tone
Issue: The overall vibe of the novel shifts unexpectedly, confusing readers.
Solution: Review each chapter to determine its tone. Highlight areas where the tone shifts drastically; for example, a comedic scene that follows a serious one might throw readers off. Aim for a balance that feels authentic, and think about how any funny bits might weaken serious topics or the other way around. Keep the tone steady and in harmony with the genre to ensure a seamless reading journey.
8. Over-Info Dumping
Issue: Readers are bombarded with excessive background information that slows down the story.
Solution: Weave information into the narrative more subtly. Instead of dumping exposition in one go, sprinkle details throughout the story. Reveal character backgrounds slowly, allowing readers to learn through action rather than exposition. If a character has a tragic past, show it through their actions or reactions rather than a lengthy paragraph explaining everything.
9. Unsatisfying Endings
Issue: Readers are left feeling unfulfilled or confused by the conclusion.
Solution: Ensure your ending resolves the primary conflicts and answers key questions. Revisit your story’s setup and make sure all threads come together by the end. Test alternative endings with beta readers to see which resonates the most. If the climax feels weak, consider raising the stakes or providing a final twist that ties back to your main theme.
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to revising a novel. Regular checks against these common issues can help refine and elevate your work to its fullest potential.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Related to How To Revise A Novel
Q. What is the first step in revising my novel?
A. Start by reading your draft from beginning to end. This approach helps you see the story as a whole and identify parts that need improvement.
Q. How do I know which areas need revision?
A. Look for inconsistencies in plot, character development, and pacing. Take notes on sections that confuse you or where the story drags.
Q. Should I focus on grammar and spelling first?
A. No, it’s better to focus on the overall structure and content first. Fixing grammar too early can distract you from bigger revisions.
Q. How can I make my characters more relatable?
A. Go through your character’s actions and motivations. Ensure they have clear goals and face realistic challenges that evoke empathy.
Q. What if my plot feels weak?
A. Analyze your plot and ask if it has clear conflict and resolution. Consider adding subplots or enhancing character arcs to add depth.
Q. Is it helpful to get feedback from others?
A. Yes! Sharing your work with beta readers or writing groups can provide fresh perspectives and identify issues you might have missed.
Q. How many times should I revise my novel?
A. There’s no set number, but be prepared to revise multiple times. Each round should focus on different aspects, like plot, character, and language.
Q. What should I do if I feel stuck during revisions?
A. Take a break! Sometimes, stepping away from your work can give you new insights. You can also brainstorm new ideas or talk to fellow writers.
Q. Should I change my writing style in revisions?
A. Only if it enhances the story. Stay true to your voice, but consider making adjustments to improve clarity and engagement.
Q. What’s the best way to stay organized during revisions?
A. Create an outline of your novel and track changes with notes. Keeping everything organized supports concentrated attention on areas needing refinement.
Conclusion
Revising a novel is a journey that demands perseverance, commitment, and sharp attention to specifics. By following this article, you can elevate your manuscript into a refined piece of work that truly shines. Remember, revising isn’t just about fixing mistakes. It’s about enhancing your story and ensuring it resonates with readers. So, grab your favorite brew, roll up your sleeves, and dive back into your draft. Your masterpiece is waiting to be unveiled!