Today’s topic is about self editing your written piece.

Editing is s crucial stage in the writing process because while you may think your written piece is absolutely magnificent, it may be riddled with spelling and grammar errors you were unaware of.

Don’t get us wrong, while editing is crucial, its actually quite a challenge especially when we become so immersed in our writing and the imaginary world we have created through words. Your ideas are flowing and the right words are coming to fruition, so its easy to forget the little details.

Before you edit the work, take a step back. Relax, and reward yourself before embarking on the daunting task.

As you begin to edit, remember the crucial details in your plot. Be reckless in this endeavour – and by that, we mean that any details that have nothing to do with the major characters or plot development have to go. This ensures that the main point of your story is obviously highlighted to your readers, making it for better read and not drowned in several sub plots.

Next, we recommend reading it out aloud. This assists with the grammar and spelling side of editing – by reading aloud, you will notice any inconsistencies, awkward sentences and repetitions. In addition to that, it may also cut down the word length which is helpful if you feel the piece is too lengthy to begin with.

The next piece of advice will sound very strange and downright weird – start from the end of the piece, and read backwards. What we mean is, read the last sentence like you normally would and then read the sentence before it. As readers, we tend to connect to the story on several personal levels. By reading it backwards, you remove any personal feelings toward the piece and your mind simply looks to point out any other flaws. Hence you won’t be distracted by a multitude of feelings, and will solely focus on the editing.

Check out these resources for a freelance editor you need any more help!

Opportunities and events

We’re always on the lookout for writers to be featured as part of NYWM. If you’re happy to answer a few questions about you and your writing, please fill out this form.

The Australia Times is an online publication that focuses on niche magazines in many categories including games, theatre and fashion. They have a new site coming soon and are currently on the hunt for writers to contribute to their garden, digital and business magazines. Check out their website here and join the team here.

Hares and Hyenas, one of Australia’s leading queer bookstores, are holding a book launch for A Storytelling of Ravens: The Best of Little Raven Publishing. This is Little Raven’s first print publication and will feature performances Aimee Nichols, Talia Eilon, and Steve Smart. Entry is $20 and you receive a copy of their book. RSVP on their site.

Melbourne Writers Festival are currently seeking Box Office volunteers!Volunteers work in a variety of roles across the Festival, including administration, customer relations, marketing, events, production, artist liaison and more. We provide a friendly and supportive environment, where volunteers learn new and valuable skills, meet people who share their interests and above all, have an enjoyable and rewarding experience. All volunteers will have free access to all MWF events at Fed Square and will recieve a Festival T-shirt. If you’re interested in utilising your computer skills and applying your attention to detail in the MWF Box Office, apply as a Box Office Volunteer. Applications are now open and close Sunday 29 June.

“I’m all for the scissors. I believe more in the scissors than I do in the pencil.” – Truman Capote