Choosing the Right Level of Editing: 4 Tips for Authors On Developmental Vs. Copyediting
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Choosing the Right Level of Editing: 4 Tips for Authors On Developmental Vs. Copyediting
Navigating the editorial process can be a daunting task for authors, each manuscript presenting its own unique challenges. This article demystifies the choice between developmental editing and copyediting, drawing on the wisdom of seasoned industry professionals. Readers will find practical tips to refine their writing process and make informed decisions for their work.
- Write When Inspired
- Set Small Daily Writing Goals
- Break Down Into Manageable Goals
- Schedule Specific Blocks for Work and Personal
Write When Inspired
I started writing my book in a very non-traditional way. I worked with Inspirational Book Writers and did their writer's retreat where you write your book in a week. Now, I did not complete my book in a week or a month or even a year; however, there were quite a few people who had a whole book or at least 30,000 words by the end of the week.
The best advice I can give an aspiring author is this... You don't have to write your book on your laptop. I wrote a lot of my book in a notebook and on my phone in voice memos which I then transcribed. I "wrote" while I was out for a walk or sitting on the beach as this is when the book was flowing for me.
The second piece of advice is this... don't force it! Work on your book when you feel inspired. When you're in a flow state, because if you try to force it, you're most likely going to end up with the dreaded writer's block. This is why voice memos work so well.
Set Small Daily Writing Goals
Oh, writing a book while juggling everything else in life can definitely feel like trying to keep a bunch of plates spinning in the air! When I was in the thick of it, what worked best for me was setting small, daily writing goals. Rather than overwhelming myself with the thought of finishing a whole chapter, I focused on writing maybe just a couple hundred words each day. Consistency, no matter how small, really builds up over time!
For other aspiring authors, I'd recommend carving out specific times for writing. Early mornings worked wonders for me because the house was quiet and my mind was fresh, but you might find late nights or lunch breaks better suit your schedule. The key is to make a schedule and stick to it as best as you can. Remember, every word you write gets you closer to that finished manuscript. Don't be too hard on yourself if life gets in the way; just pick up where you left off and keep moving forward.
Break Down Into Manageable Goals
Break it down into small, manageable goals. Instead of thinking about writing an entire book, focus on one chapter, section, or even a few paragraphs at a time. Setting daily or weekly word count goals keeps progress steady without feeling overwhelming.
Consistency builds momentum. Block writing time daily, even if only for five minutes, and stick to it. Tell yourself it's okay to stop after five minutes, but do those five minutes NO MATTER WHAT. Writing daily trains your brain to focus faster, making it easier to get into a creative flow.
Ignore writer's block. If you're stalled or procrastinating, stop thinking about it and write. You might think you're blocked, but you're not. Putting words to paper (even if gibberish at first) will push your brain into gear, and the words will come.
Schedule Specific Blocks for Work and Personal
One way I do this is by scheduling specific blocks of time for work and personal activities, ensuring that each gets the attention it deserves without overwhelming the other. I set clear boundaries by designating work hours and making sure to disconnect during personal time-evenings or weekends fully-so I can recharge and be present with family or hobbies. I also ensure that my brand aligns with my values, so when I share professional content, it still reflects who I am authentically, making it easier to maintain consistency without feeling like I'm oversharing or sacrificing personal time.
