Chapter 4
Self-Editing: Professional Ways to Improve Your Work
IN THIS CHAPTER
Switching to the editor’s role
Fixing problems with shortcut techniques
Activating language with strong verbs
Avoiding pitfalls that undermine clarity and impact
If you expect to create a successful email, letter or business document in just one shot, think again. Don’t ask so much of yourself. Very few professional writers can accomplish a finished piece — whether they write novels, plays, articles, websites or press releases — with their first draft. This especially includes writers known for their simplicity and easy reading.
Editing is how writers write. For them, the writing and editing processes are inseparable because they wouldn’t dream of submitting work to anyone that is less than their very best. Unfortunately, many people are intimidated by the notion of editing their own work. But equipped with effective methods and techniques, many of which are based on common sense, you can edit with confidence.
Mastering hundreds of grammar rules is not necessary to becoming a good editor. Know the clues ...
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