OLD POST ALERT! This is an older post and although you might find some useful tips, any technical or publishing information is likely to be out of date. Please click on Start Here on the menu bar above to find links to my most useful articles, videos and podcast. Thanks and happy writing! – Joanna Penn
Many new writers are confused about what happens after you have managed to get the first draft out of your head and onto the page. [Click here to check out my list of recommended editors.]
I joined NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) this year and ended up with 27,774 words on a crime novel, the first in a new series. It's not an entire first draft but it's a step in the right direction and the plotting time was sorely needed.
Maybe you ‘won' NaNo or maybe you have the first draft of another book in your drawer, but we all need to take the next step in the process in order to end up with a finished product.
Here's my process, and I believe it's relevant whether you are writing fiction or non-fiction.
(1) Rewriting and redrafting. Repeat until satisfied.
For many writers, the first draft is just the bare bones of the finished work and often no one will ever see that version of the manuscript. Remember the wise words of Anne Lamott in ‘Bird by Bird‘ “Write shitty first drafts.” You can't edit a blank page but once those words are down, you can improve on them. [More books for writers here.]
I love the rewriting and redrafting process. Once I have a first draft I print the whole thing out and do the first pass with handwritten notes. I write all kinds of notes in the margins and scribble and cross things out. I note down new scenes that need writing, continuity issues, problems with characters and much more. That first pass usually takes a while. Then I go back and start a major rewrite based on those notes.
After that's done, I will print again and repeat the process, but that usually results in fewer changes. Then I edit on the Kindle for word choice. I add all the changes back into Scrivener which is my #1 writing and publishing tool.
(2) Structural edit/ Editorial review
I absolutely recommend a structural edit if this is your first book, or the first book in a series. A structural edit is usually given to you as a separate document, broken down into sections based on what is being evaluated. You can find a list of editors here.
I had a structural edit for Stone of Fire (previously Pentecost) in 2010 and reported back on that experience here. As the other ARKANE novels follow a similar formula, I didn't get structural edits for Crypt of Bone and Ark of Blood. However, I will be getting one for the new crime novel when it is ready because it is a different type of book for me.
Here's how to vet an independent editor if you are considering one.
(3) Revisions
When you get a structural edit back, there are usually lots of revisions to do, possibly even a complete rewrite. This may take a while …
(4) Beta readers
Beta readers are a trusted group of people who evaluate your book from a reader's perspective. You should only give them the book if you are happy with it yourself because otherwise it is disrespectful of their time.
This could be a critique group, although I prefer a hand-picked group of 5 or 6 who bring different perspectives. I definitely have a couple of people who love the genre I am writing in as they will spot issues within the boundaries of what is expected, and then some people who consider other things.
My main rule with beta readers is to make changes if more than one person says the same thing. Click here for more on beta readers.
(5) Line edits
The result of line editing is the classic manuscript covered in red ink as an editor slashes your work to pieces!
You can get one of these edits before or after the beta readers, or even at the same time. I prefer afterwards as I make broader changes of the book based on their opinions so I want the line editor to get the almost final version.
Line edits are more about word choice, grammar and sentence structure. There may also be comments about the narrative itself but this is a more a comment on the reading experience by someone who is skilled at being critical around words.
The first time you get such a line edit, it hurts. You think you're a writer and then someone changes practically every sentence. Ouch.
But editing makes your book stronger, and the reader will thank you for it. [You can find a list of editors here.]
(6) Revisions
You'll need to make more changes based on the feedback of the beta readers and line editor. This can sometimes feel like a complete rewrite and takes a lot of detailed time as you have to check every sentence.
I usually make around 75% of the changes suggested by the line editor, as they are usually sensible, even though I am resistant at first. It is important to remember that you don't have to change what they ask for though, so evaluate each suggestion but with a critical eye.
(7) Proof-reading
By this point, you cannot even see any mistakes you might have made. Inevitably, your corrections for line editing have exposed more issues, albeit minor ones.
So before I publish now, I get a final read-through from a proof-reader. (Thanks Liz at LibroEditing!) After Crypt of Bone was published, I even got an email from a reader saying congratulations because they had failed to find a single typo. Some readers really do care, for which I am grateful and that extra investment at the end can definitely pay off in terms of polishing the final product.
(8) Publication
Once I have corrected anything minor the proof-reading has brought to light, I will Compile the various file formats on Scrivener for the ebook publishing platforms. I will then back the files up a number of times, as I have done throughout the whole process.
(9) Post-publication
This may be anathema to some, but the beauty of ebook publishing is that you can update your files later. If someone finds a typo, no problem. If you want to update the back matter with your author website and mailing list details, no worries. If you want to rewrite the whole book, you can do that too (although some sites have stricter rules than Amazon around what is considered a new version.)
Budget: Time and money
Every writer is different, and there are no rules.
But in terms of time, your revision process will likely take at least as long as the first draft and probably longer (unless you're Lee Child who just writes one draft!). For my latest book, Exodus, the first draft took about 3 months and the rewriting process took about 6 months.
In terms of money, I would budget between $500 – $2000 depending on what level of editing you're looking for, and how many rounds. You can find some editors I have interviewed as well as their prices here.
I believe editing at all these different stages is important, because it is our responsibility to make sure our books are the best they can be. But if you can't afford professional editing, then consider using a critique group locally or online. The more eyes on the book before it goes out into the world, the better.
What's your editing process?
I'd love to hear from you in the comments below. Do you have a similar approach or something completely different?
Top image: BigStockPhoto old spanish manuscript, Bigstockphoto time and money
Pinkode says
Hi Joanna, I’ve just completed the 5th draft of my WIP which I began two years ago. I’ve sent to readers (beta and nonbeta) and they gave good feedbacks. But I’m a college student and don’t really have the cash for an expert editor. I was wondering if I could try my luck by pitching to an agent or wait till I have the cash for an expert editor.
Naomi says
I just completed a structural edit and my manuscript is with my agent. Have to admit it feels good when you are done. Not looking forward to Line edits, they are even scary to look at, eek! Thanks for the post!
Linda Maye Adams says
I don’t like the rewriting process because if I have to do it, I’ve really screwed up the first draft, in a major way, enough that maybe I need to restart it from scratch and pretend like the original one doesn’t exist.
I don’t outline, so ideas don’t come into me in order — and that means I have to pay attention to the flow of the story as I create the first draft. I’m always moving back and forth, dropping this idea there or rearranging something. At one point I did the “Don’t revise until you get to the end,” and that was the utter worst for me because the story was out of order and salvageable. Now, I do all the work in the first draft, then it’s a fast edit to clean up anything that got in and doesn’t need to be. A beta, a little more house cleaning, and then a proofreading.
Nichole Payne says
Hello, I have a question regarding publishing this is my first time writing and I wanted to know what would be the best route to go for a children” s book? thank you
Bekele says
I formatted my draft myself and sent it to the publishing company.But the order of titles and subtitles changes or messed up.It will somehow once I change it into pdf and send it.What should I do in order that the publishing company may find it in good order ? Thank you in advance for your advice.Can you forward me your answer thru my email please ? I thank you in advance.Bekele
Dana says
Hello,
Brilliant article here, this will help me out a lot.
I am 16 years old and have started writing my first draft of my psychological horror novel.
So far I am on 10,500 words. Iam currently writing it at slow pace and I want to speed it up, how many words are recommended that I do a day?
Joanna Penn says
Everyone has a different practice – so there are no rules. For example, I don’t write every day all the time. I write 5 days a week in first draft phase, which is where you are. I try to write between 500 – 2500 words per day – which takes 1-3 hours usually. I don’t outline, which many writers do and it will make your process quicker. Check out some of the books here for more help http://www.thecreativepenn.com/books-for-writers/
Summer says
Hello My daughter is 16. I tell her all the time just believe in yourself . See yourself as a success and dream big. I too just started writing my first book at age 40 so be happy you are starting young. I was told that if you write 1000 words a day for 100 days thats the start of a great book. Aim high Hun You’ve got this. Summer
Maria says
I just finished my short story. Should I get copyrights before getting it edited?
Joanna Penn says
Copyright is a passive right – you have it already. This will help: http://www.thecreativepenn.com/2013/07/05/a-guide-to-rights-orna-ross/
and also http://www.thecreativepenn.com/2014/10/06/legal-helen-sedwick/
Corey says
I’m currently working on or attempting to write my first book. I’ve had all the details in my head for a good decade and I’ve finally decided to let my ideas be born in writing. I’ve researched do ‘s and don’ts but I’ve oddly found no actual structure” rules”. I’m not actually a book reader so I’m hoping that will help me in writing due to the fact that I won’t actually accidentally put in details from other authors.
I thank you for your tips on what to do in the writing process and if I could afford a book for help on my writing I would but that is why I’ve decided to finally write my idea down in hopes my family and I aren’t so financially strapped and in hopes my writing van actually appeal to a crowd.
I thank you for your tips on writing and I plan to continue my research in hopes that when I can publish my book that it becomes a success.
Thank you again,
Corey
Matthias Haffner says
Hi Joanna! First of all: Thanks for the good information you give! It is really helpful! Together with a friend, I´m writing a nonfiction-book about a certain music style (I´m a musician). We did a lot of research (filming, interviews,…) for our book. Now we are both writing and trying to get things together. For our book, we have to work with several programs (music-writing-program Sibelius, Photoshop, Pages…). To get all information together, I try to import PDF´s and jpeg´s into Pages (as I work with a Macbook), which is a hell of a work and the program Pages sucks because it´s not an editor program. What can you suggest as a better program? Or should I just put all files in a chaotic way together and leave the work for a professional editor? But this will cost a hell of a money I guess…? Do I have to provide perfect edited pictures and PDF´s, or is this work of the book editor? Should I edit all by myself, and if yes: in which program?
Thanks for your help, kind regards, Matthias
Joanna Penn says
I’d recommend using Scrivener – it’s great for organizing and life changing for writers. Posts on it here: http://www.thecreativepenn.com/tag/scrivener/ and my recommended course for it is: http://www.thecreativepenn.com/scrivener
Kym Darkly says
Hey Joanna,
I love your posts.
What do you do when you are part of a writing group. You give them a finished draft, they completely trash it – but they love the characters?
Should I write it from scratch addressing their concerns and reworking the plot so that it is easier to understand?
I’m also not sure how much critique from this group is valid as I still don’t know them well yet but they do go for the jugular – lol.
Thank you
KD
Joanna Penn says
Hi KD, I’m one of those people who don’t use writing groups. I prefer to pay a professional to help me improve my writing, or do workshops with published writers who are actually making a living with their writing. How many of the people in your group who trash your characters actually have a) books finished and b) books published?
Check here for a list of pros – http://www.thecreativepenn.com/editors/
Also read – The Pursuit of Perfection and how it harms writers – by Kristine Kathryn Rusch
Kym Darkly says
Hi Joanna,
I must admit I do feel a bit discouraged today and I write a lot. In truth the other people in the group are not published but also they don’t write what I write – thriller/horror – so I also am not sure they will get it or like it because it’s not their style. Maybe I will budget for good professionals as you say.
I will check out Kristine’s book. I have heard her speak on a podcast and I think she’s great!
Many thanks for your help and your fast reply. You rock!
Kym
Joanna Penn says
I would add then that you should only use beta readers or critique partners who love the genre you write in. If you write thriller/horror, I wouldn’t share with people who write literary fiction or romance, for example. Just too different 🙂 Find some other thriller & horror writers to hang out with!
Kym Darkly says
Yes, thank you for that. I really appreciate your feedback. The interesting thing about this is that that piece got me an LA agent and 3 jobs on TV shows. I didn’t tell them that as I was just looking to update it and write it out as a novel instead of a TV pilot. Anyway great advice as always Joanna. Thank you 🙂
KD
Jonathan says
I know its a later step, but proofreading is almost a peaceful task for me. It’s mindless, largely (in my own rudimentary way), and after a beast of a draft, I enjoy it.
My first draft’s ending begins with elation that I’ve finished, relaxation as I break for a second, depression as I reread it and realize its true awfulness, panic because I think its unfixable, and then adopting a workman-like attitude to do the thing I knew I would have to do all along – write some more.
Jonathan
Rainen says
I was just wondering if you let your close friends or family read your first drafts, or is it usually a secret till its done?
Joanna Penn says
I don’t have close friends or family read any of my drafts 🙂 and they have given up reading the finished product too! Friends and family are usually the worst people to read your words as they love you and don’t want to offend you – and they usually don’t read the same things as you so they are not your market. Better to work with an editor or writer’s group and find readers from your target market. Editor info here: http://www.thecreativepenn.com/editors/
Rainen says
Thank you!
R.C. Black says
Hi Joanna!
So, for my first book, it’s a dark redemptive story with a huntress, but most of the ideas and messages will be very contrary to society, but these messages are close to me, I’ve always heard about writers needing to censor their work, explained in: “Take the Tortillas Out of Your Poetry.” Should I be afraid to write my book, let alone publish it. I’ve been working on it since 2012.
Thanks,
R.C.
R.C. Black says
I should add it’s Dark-High Fantasy. 🙂
Felix Kimani says
Hi Joanna,
I am writing my first book- or i should say second book. A few months ago i started writing a fictional book but then I don’t even know what happened and then all over sudden i stopped. Two weeks ago i decided writing a biographical book which am still writing -am probably over 30,000 words now soaring to hit about 50,000 words. Does it matter the amounts of words needed as a threshold for an average book? Another question is : This book is about my story starting from when I was in Africa all through coming to america kind of thing- How can i make my book target both African and American readers? any suggestions will be appreciated.
Joanna Penn says
The word count is more of a guide and is appropriate by genre e.g. romance books can be 50,000 words as full length, but fantasy are often at least double that. Memoir/biography varies. It’s up to you and in a digital world, it doesn’t matter so much – you just have to price appropriately.
In terms of targeting people in Africa vs people in America, for now, it’s worth focusing on the US as the ebook market is so much bigger. Africa is just getting started in terms of ebook sales. In terms of African-Americans in America, that will be about you targeting that market with your promotions. All the best.
Vatsal says
Hi Joanna, Nice to e-meet you! I have been reading the articles on your website for the past two days and the have been very enlightening. I am a physician doing residency in radiation oncology in San Antonio, Texas. I am currently working on a fiction novel (half way through my first draft) and intend to finish off the first draft by mid-January. I have put in a lot of effort in writing each scene. Do you think it will still take me 6 months to edit? I have been working on my book for the past year; however, I write very sporadically (sometimes, going without having anything written for a month). When I do write, I typically write 3000-4000 words in one sitting. Like you, I also like to write my sequences out of sequence, because it’s difficult to write in linear fashion, depending on the mood. Thank you. Sincerely, Vatsal. Vatsal Patel, MD.
Vatsal says
I meant my scenes out of sequence.
Alexandria says
Hi Joanna, thanks for all your thorough posts.
I’d like to know how you incorporate research into your schedule.
Is it something you do as you go when you run up against something, or do you set aside non-writing time to do it before you start writing based on your outline?
Joanna Penn says
I’ve just talked about this in today’s podcast – transcript also available http://www.thecreativepenn.com/2016/01/04/self-publishing-predictions-creative-writing/
Steve Shedden says
Thanks for the advise! After winning NaNoWriMo last year! I had no idea how to go forward. Now i have a template to work too! 🙂
Sara Petersen says
Love your post! I shared some of your advice and featured you in my blog! http://rainydaysandlattes.com/2016/02/26/writing-a-novel-i-finished-the-first-draft-now-what/
Melissa says
Amazing info, much appreciated! But my favorite part of this post are the photos of the edited pages…I could swear you took them of the mess of pages on my own kitchen table. I honestly feared I was doing it wrong, or over doing it, or something. But seeing that my “process” is in the right direction is comforting and encouraging. 🙂 Thanks again!
Joanna Penn says
editing is a messy process 🙂