Editing is a pretty broad topic to tackle, so I’m going to
focus on exercises for three common types of editing we all face: 1) Plot
Editing, 2) Character Editing and 3) Line Editing.
Plot Editing
- Goal,
Conflict, Stakes Exercise
Write these three words at the top of each chapter in your WIP. Then, go
through and actually identify them—write your answers down at the top of each
chapter. This will help you see where the goal is undefined, where the conflict
could be better, and where the stakes could be higher.
- Plot
Matrix
Many writers use a variation of a plot matrix—including JK Rowling. She
uses the matrix to plan her novels, but since I’m more of a panster myself,
I’ve utilized this approach as a double-check to identify plot holes during
editing.
Write the chapter numbers along the far left
side of a notebook page and the major POVs or subplots across the top. Then,
summarize the key events for each character or subplot by chapter. It’s really
helpful in fixing timing issues, and since it’s visual you can more easily see
how all aspects of the story fit together…or not.
Character Editing
- Story
Bible
Take a blank piece of notebook paper for each character (or creature, or
location). Write down the details of that character, from physical descriptions
to fears, loves, allergies, backstory, etc. The list should morph along the way
as you add to it.
This story bible is extremely valuable in maintaining character consistency,
especially over a series. Most of us remember the key components of our
character, but sometimes let the small details slip.
- Assign a
Beta to Each Character
This is a fun way to get friends involved. Assign each friend one of your
characters. Then, ask them to pay special attention to that particular
character as they read. Since your friends feel strong ownership over “their”
character, they’ll become experts at spotting any holes or inconsistencies in
the character’s storyline.
- Screenwriting/Dialogue
Role-play a scene to make sure the plot makes sense and that the characters act
and sound consistent. It’s amazing how many silly errors you’ll find simply by
speaking your dialogue out loud and by acting out a scene.
Line Editing
- The
Basic
Be ruthless in avoiding words like ‘was’
and ‘had’ if possible. To further polish your novel, try reading sections of it
backwards. That takes plot out of the equation for this exercise and helps you
focus only on fixing grammar and language mistakes.
Looking for more trouble words to slay from your manuscript? Check out
this great list from Janice Hardy.
- Cutting
Down Your Word Count
1) Find
a fast-paced book. I’ve used Rick Riordan, Suzanne Collins and Karen Marie
Moning in the past. Read it in one sitting. Now, go edit.
This puts me in a speedy frame of mind, and I’m much more willing to cut or
rewrite my own sluggish scenes because I’m fresh from an example of seeing it
done well.
2) Pick
any (approximately) 100-word paragraph in your book. Rewrite it using only 75.
Now 50. Now 25.
Complete the exercise, even if you know the 25 word sentence is never something
you would use. It will help you identify the key points you’re trying to
communicate and highlight areas where you can afford to cut. After you’ve done
this a few times, you’ll start to apply that same attitude to your novel as a
whole.
