Tags
adverbs, Pat Holt, Self-editing, Show Don't Tell, writers, writing, Writing Mistakes, writing tips
I’ve read everything I can get my hands on about self-editing. I think of self-editing as getting rid of the clutter – housekeeping if you will. When the writing is tidy, the story shines through, unburdened by extra words and empty adverbs.
I “Stumbled-Upon” this helpful post from the blog “Holt Uncensored.” The post is from 2009 but warrants another look.
Ten Mistakes Writers Don’t See (But Can Easily Fix When they Do)
Ms. Holt gives us a list of ten mistakes writers make but don’t see. Many of the “mistakes” and “tips” on how to fix them are things we have all seen before, such as avoid adverbs at almost all costs and the ubiquitous “show don’t tell.” However, the guidance she gives is different and precise. Ms. Holt’s post spurred me to look at my novel again and I spent most of yesterday clearing away clutter with a fresh eye.
I’ll leave you with this . . . imagine editing your writing before computers. Making revisions on a typewriters must have been a pain.
Robin Coyle 
I used to do editing and copywriting for the Texas A&M University Press, the A&M College of Science, and the A&M Department of Chemistry back in the 1980s. We were so excited when we got our first computer and an awesome HP LaserJet.