Interesting article on self-editing your fic

[dbskyler]

I came across this article on self-editing, and it has some really great advice that applies to fanfic as well as to original fiction:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/kristen-lamb/six-easy-tips-for-selfedi_b_3838124.html

I have to admit, I have been guilty of doing some of the exact things it says not to do! At least I know there's room for improvement in my writing, right?

Comments

[aralias.livejournal.com]

I have to admit, I have been guilty of doing some of the exact things it says not to do!

me too... begun ironing is the main one. i even edited it out of someone else's work this morning (at actual work...) - largely for space reasons, but still. it does give a different meaning to the sentence. i think. maybe i am just deluding myself. anyway - interesting list!

[dbskyler.livejournal.com]

I once had a beta reader edit something like that out of my fic, and I remember thinking "ooh, yes, that does sound better." But I still don't look for it in my writing. I think you're right and it can convey a slightly different meaning, which is fine if that's the meaning you wanted. The trick is to use it on purpose.