Writing a second draft can seem tricky, especially after all the effort put into the first one. The first draft often feels raw and unpolished, which can lead to confusion about how to refine it into a more coherent version. The good news? You have already conquered the hardest part—getting those ideas down. Now, let’s turn that first draft into a masterpiece.
To effectively tackle a second draft, follow these steps:
- Read Your First Draft Thoroughly
- Establish a Clear Focus
- Create an Outline
- Revise Scenes or Chapters
- Enhance Character Development
- Fine-Tune Dialogue
- Edit for Clarity and Consistency
- Seek Feedback
- Proofread for Grammar and Spelling
Table of Contents
Read Your First Draft Thoroughly
The first step in writing a second draft is to read your first draft completely without making any changes. Imagine you’re a reader, not the writer. This allows you to see the story from a fresh perspective. Ask yourself these questions:
- Does the story flow logically?
- Are the characters relatable and believable?
- Are there sections that drag on or feel rushed?
For example, if you wrote a mystery novel and find yourself skimming through the first three chapters, it might be a sign that you need to tighten your pacing or add intrigue.
Tip: Use a Highlighter
Use a highlighter to mark sections that require more attention, whether for revision or expansion. This can be helpful in identifying areas needing clarification or major rewrites.
Establish a Clear Focus
Before diving into revisions, establish the main focus of your second draft. What themes do you want to emphasize? What message do you want to convey to your readers? This clarity will steer your revisions.
Suppose you wrote a romance story but realize the underlying theme revolves around self-discovery. In the second draft, emphasize character growth and decision-making that reflects this theme more clearly.
Actionable Tip: Write a Theme Statement
Craft a one-sentence theme statement that encapsulates the essence of your story. Refer back to this as you revise to keep the focus sharp.
Create an Outline
Once you understand your focus, creating a new outline can aid in structuring your second draft. An outline will help you see where elements fall flat and where new material needs to be added.
Let’s say your mystery novel has five key plot points. Use the outline to pinpoint areas that could be expanded or need clearer connections to build suspense.
Pros and Cons of Outlining
Pros:
- Provides clear guidance.
- Helps identify gaps in the narrative.
- Forces you to consider the entire arc of the story.
Cons:
- It can feel restrictive to creative writing.
- It might lead you away from spontaneous, inspiring moments.
Take the time to weigh these factors based on your writing style before committing to an outline.
Revise Scenes or Chapters
After establishing a focus and outline, tackle each scene or chapter, revisiting your highlights. Ask whether each section serves a purpose in moving the story forward or enriching character development.
For instance, in a science fiction novel, if a chapter describes the protagonist’s backstory but doesn’t relate directly to the plot, consider condensing it or embedding relevant information into other scenes where it’s more impactful.
Actionable Tip: Utilize the “Scene Check”
For every scene, ask:
- What is the purpose?
- Who is the protagonist, and what do they want?
- What obstacle are they facing, and how does this scene move the narrative?
This technique ensures every chapter feels purposeful.
Enhance Character Development
In a second draft, character development plays a vital role. Assess whether your characters have distinct voices, motivations, and arcs. Have they grown through the story?
If you wrote a young adult novel, ensure the protagonist isn’t solving complex problems with overly simplistic solutions. Authentic growth leads to relatable characters.
Example: The Evolving Hero
When revisiting a character-driven story, consider how the protagonist could react differently to a challenge than in the first draft. This evolution not only adds depth but also keeps readers engaged.
Tip: Use Character Profiles
Create profiles for each main character. List their motivations, fears, and goals to ensure consistent development throughout the narrative.
Fine-Tune Dialogue
If your dialogue sounds stiff or unrealistic in the first draft, it’s time to give it some life. Read it out loud to catch anything that feels unnatural.
Suppose a conversation between characters feels more like a lecture than a discussion. Consider breaking it down into snappier exchanges that demonstrate each character’s voice.
Actionable Tip: Use the 80/20 Rule
Ensure 80% of your dialogue serves a purpose—whether it moves the plot, illustrates character, or advances the theme—while the remaining 20% can be humor, banter, or world-building exposition.
Edit for Clarity and Consistency
Editing for clarity is crucial in a second draft. Look for sections that might confuse readers. Are there too many characters introduced at once? Does any jargon need simplification?
Let’s say your fantasy novel includes unique world-building terminology. Provide clear explanations in context to avoid losing reader engagement due to confusion.
Specific Tip: Read for Flow
Read passages aloud to grasp the flow better. Are transitions smooth? If a passage stutters when spoken, it will likely disrupt readers. Tighten up awkward sections and ensure they flow logically.
Seek Feedback
After completing revisions on your second draft, share it with trusted beta readers. Genuine feedback can pinpoint areas needing improvement that you might have overlooked.
When you receive feedback, consider the following:
- Is the comment specific?
- Does it offer constructive criticism?
- Is it consistent with what you’ve heard before?
Using multiple readers can give you a variety of perspectives. Keep in mind that not every piece of feedback aligns with your vision—filter out what aligns with your story.
Tips for Feedback Collection
- Prepare a feedback form asking specific questions related to plot, pacing, and character.
- Schedule feedback sessions with short deadlines to keep the process moving.
Proofread for Grammar and Spelling
The final step before moving forward with publishing or further editing is to proofread. Examine grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors that could interfere with a polished draft.
Using software tools can help catch common mistakes, but don’t rely solely on technology. Human eyes can catch nuances machine checks may miss.
Actionable Tip: Take Breaks During Proofreading
Let your manuscript sit for a day or two before proofreading. This brief distance allows you to come back with clear eyes for spotting errors you might have otherwise overlooked.
By following these steps, you will be well on your way to mastering the second draft, transforming your initial ideas into a well-crafted piece that resonates with readers. Each stage holds its significance, from reading critically to the final proofreading touches. Your second draft can reflect your best efforts while honing your voice as a writer.
When writing a second draft, it’s common to run into a few hiccups. Here are some practical tips for addressing specific challenges that often arise during this phase.
1. Overly Complicated Sentences:
You might notice some of your sentences are winding and hard to follow. For example, you could have written: “The old library on Main Street, which was established in 1895 and has seen countless generations of readers come and go, was finally closed for renovations.” Instead, break it down: “The old library on Main Street was established in 1895. It closed for renovations after serving generations of readers.” This makes your writing clearer and more engaging.
2. Weak Dialogue:
Dialogue can sometimes feel stiff or unnatural. If a character sounds like they are reading from a textbook, take a step back. For instance, if someone says, “I believe it is time to take action,” consider how people actually speak. Change it to something like, “We need to do something now.” This brings your characters to life.
3. Characters with No Depth:
Review your characters. If they seem flat or resemble caricatures, dig deeper. For example, if you have a character who is just a “mean boss,” add layers. What drives their behavior? Perhaps they are struggling with their insecurities at work. Adding background can make your characters more relatable and compelling.
4. Inconsistent Tone:
If you notice shifts in tone that feel jarring, it’s important to smooth those out. For example, if you switch from humorous to serious within a chapter without a clear transition, that might confuse readers. Decide on a tone for each section. If your book has a humorous feel but has a heavy section on loss, consider how you can weave in light moments without undercutting the seriousness of the theme.
5. Pacing Problems:
Some parts of your draft may drag on, while others feel rushed. If you have an action scene that wraps up in a paragraph but a character’s internal struggle that spans several pages, you might have a pacing issue. Identify these spots and adjust. Expand on the action to build tension and condense lengthy contemplations to keep the momentum moving.
6. Plot Holes:
As you revise, plot holes might become glaringly obvious. If a character leaves a scene without explaining where they went or why it’s a critical part of the plot, this can confuse readers. Revisit the narrative structure. Ensure that each action contributes to the storyline; if not, clarify motivations or adjust the plot timeline.
7. Lack of Motivation:
While revising, check if your characters’ actions align with their motivations. If a character suddenly decides to help another without any buildup, readers won’t buy in. Make sure that motivations are clear and earned so every choice feels justified. For instance, if a character risks their life for another, ensure there’s a prior history or emotional investment established.
8. Grammar and Typos:
After writing a fresh second draft, grammar and typos might still be lurking. It’s easy to overlook mistakes after multiple revisions. Read your draft out loud to catch errors you might miss visually. Alternatively, using grammar-check software can help catch those pesky mistakes before finalizing your draft.
Adjusting your second draft with these troubleshooting tips addresses common issues head-on, resulting in a tighter and more polished manuscript.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Related to How To Write A Second Draft
Q. What is the purpose of writing a second draft?
A. The second draft allows you to refine your ideas, improve the flow, and fix any plot holes or inconsistencies that appeared in the first draft. It’s a chance to elevate your story.
Q. Should I change the major elements of my story in the second draft?
A. Yes, but do so thoughtfully. If you notice weaknesses in character development or plot, this is the time to make adjustments that strengthen your story.
Q. How can I stay organized while writing my second draft?
A. Use outlines, chapter summaries, or character sketches to keep track of changes and maintain continuity. This organization can help you see the big picture while fine-tuning details.
Q. Is it necessary to seek feedback before starting my second draft?
A. Seeking feedback from trusted readers can provide valuable insights. They may notice issues you missed or suggest improvements that enhance your manuscript.
Q. How do I approach editing my second draft?
A. Start with big-picture edits. Focus on structure, pacing, and character development first. Once those aspects are solid, shift to line editing for grammar and style.
Q. What should I do if I feel stuck during my second draft?
A. Take a break. Stepping away from your work can refresh your mind. A change of scenery or a different activity might spark new ideas.
Q. How long should I spend on my second draft?
A. It varies by writer and project. Set yourself a reasonable timeline based on your schedule and goals, but don’t rush. Quality revisions often take time.
Q. Should I print out my second draft or work digitally?
A. It depends on your preference. Some writers find it easier to spot errors or make notes on printed pages, while others prefer the convenience of digital editing.
Q. What common mistakes should I avoid in my second draft?
A. Avoid making edits without a plan. It’s easy to lose focus or introduce new errors. Stick to a checklist or goals for revisions to keep your work on track.
Q. When is it time to move on from the second draft?
A. Once you feel satisfied with the improvements and believe your manuscript is cohesive, it’s time to consider moving to the next stage, like seeking additional feedback or polishing for publication.
Conclusion
Writing a second draft is your chance to refine and improve your work. Focus on clarity, structure, and character development. Don’t be afraid to cut or add sections that enhance your story. Remember, the magic of writing often happens in the editing phase, so embrace it. By staying committed and open to changes, you’ll create a draft that’s not just good but great. Keep pushing through, and you’ll be one step closer to your final masterpiece.
