Self-editing tips

Good tips for self-editing:

1) There are MANY different acceptable styles, pick ONE and stick with it.

2) Finish your manuscript, let it rest a few days, edit.  Let it rest again, edit.  Let it rest again, edit. AND SO ON! 

3)  Beta readers can be invaluable, or not so much depending on who you select.  Make sure you are choosing different people for different roles - content-oriented vs. grammar-oriented

4) Paperback proofs are your friends! Order a paperback proof, grab a pencil and mark away.  It helps to read aloud, especially dialogue passages.

5) I personally find it helpful to edit as I write.  After half a dozen chapters I take a small break to read back through and edit.  This works for some people but not everyone.

Their/there/they're and reign/rein

There are a lot of issues with these little words.  Just a quick refresher on the general differences!

There: a place or location as in "She is standing over there"or "Yes, we will meet there"

Their: generally indicating possession  Examples: "their coffee" or "their house"

They're: contraction for they are as in "They're going to the game."

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Reign: to hold a royal office or hold influence/power over

Rein: to stop or slow down

Indie Editing

Everywhere I turn in the ebook world there are discussions about the quality of indie books.  The biggest complaint from readers is poor editing.  I have to admit I understand where they are coming from and have fallen victim to free ebooks with terrible grammar.  On the other hand, I understand the lack of reasonably priced resources for indie authors.  That's where I come in!  If you are in need of a proof-reader and/or editor who won't break your pocket then I am your gal! 

I will also be posting some random grammar and punctuation notes so check back regularly!!