IS YOUR MANUSCRIPT OBESE?
Your first novel is now complete. Or is it? Sure, the words “the
end” have been typed, but the work is far from finished. The challenging part
is through rewrites and editing.
However, shortening your manuscript should take place after the conclusion of the first draft
to avoid inhibiting the creative process. Follow these tips to help lighten the
weight of your novel:
-Keep ideas concise and avoid repetition of words, thoughts
and phrases.
-Use one adjective oppose to two or three. Example: “Astonished
by the low flying plane, young Jeff shoved his hands in his pockets, winced and
crinkled his nose, before yelling out, “Ooooohaweee.”
-Show and don’t tell. “She looked shocked.” Or, “She stumbled
back, clutching her heart.”
-According to editor, and blogger, Rachelle Gardner, “If you
cut 12 words per page in a 350-page manuscript, you’ve already shortened it by
4,200 (unnecessary) words.”
-Do away with incessant “ly” adverbs: suddenly, truly,
lovingly, surely, thoughtfully,
-Shorten Characters’ thoughts.
-Backstory that serves no purpose should be omitted.
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Heidi