Enhancing Your Writing: Grammar, Tense, and Tone Corrections on Wattpad

Introduction

Writing on Wattpad is a wonderful way to share your storytelling with a wide audience. However, even the most passionate stories can benefit from professional guidance to ensure they reach their full potential. In this article, we will explore some common issues in writing, specifically focusing on grammar, tense consistency, and avoiding Indian-ism or MTI (mis-translated idioms), and discuss the steps one can take to improve. We will also address common questions about editing services and provide contact information for those seeking expert assistance.

Common Issues and Corrections

One of the primary challenges writers face is grammar and punctuation. Errors in these areas can detract from the overall readability and impact of a story. Additionally, inconsistent tense switching can confuse readers and disrupt the flow of the narrative. Let's address these issues one by one.

1. Grammar and Punctuation

Good grammar and punctuation are essential for clear communication. This includes both spelling and sentence structure. While automated tools like free wordcounters and plagiarism checkers can catch many issues, manual proofreading is still crucial. Manual editing ensures that your narrative flows naturally and avoids common errors such as misspellings, awkward phrasing, and inconsistent use of conjunctions and commas.

2. Tense Consistency

Consistent tense usage is vital for maintaining the narrative's flow and coherence. For instance, the term “half cutted” does not exist. It should be corrected to “half cut” or “half-cuts” if that is the intended meaning. The use of correct tenses can significantly enhance the clarity and professionalism of your writing. Here are some examples:

Past Tense: Had cut, was cut Present Tense: Am cutting, is cutting Future Tense: Will cut, will be cutting

Practicing these tenses will improve your writing over time. Additionally, using tools like Grammarly can automatically suggest corrections and provide guidance on proper tense usage.

3. Avoiding Indian-ism and MTI

Indian writers often fall into the trap of using idioms or phrases that may not have the same meaning in English. Terms like “like hell” are not universally understood and can be replaced with more appropriate expressions like “certainly” or “definitely.” Here are some common offenders to watch out for:

Incorrect: You need not to Correct: You needn't or You need not

Replacing Indian-ism and MTI with clearer and more context-appropriate English can make your writing more accessible and engaging for a broader audience.

Seeking Professional Help

Editing and proofreading services can be a valuable resource for writers looking to refine their work. Many freelancers offer their services on platforms like ProBlogger, Upwork, or Fiverr. These services can offer valuable insights and improvements that you might not catch in your initial drafts.

Contacting Editors

If you are seeking professional editing, here are some steps to follow:

Email: You can reach out to freelance editors through an email. Be sure to include a sample of your work and a clear description of your needs. Charges: The cost for editing services can vary. Reporting issues like grammar and tense consistency can typically be done for a lower rate than full manuscript editing. Freelance rates may range from $0.01 to $0.05 per word, depending on the editor's experience and the nature of the project. Geographical Consideration: Editors can be located anywhere in the world. However, if you are in India and already familiar with local market rates, you might find more affordable options within your country. Consulting with editors from your region can be beneficial, especially if you need adjustments for regional language use.

For a more personalized experience, you might want to send the matter to the email: youremail@

Conclusion

Writing on Wattpad is a fantastic way to share your creativity and connect with readers. By improving your grammar, tenses, and avoiding Indian-ism and MTI, you can enhance the readability and appeal of your stories. Whether you opt for automated tools or seek the expertise of a professional editor, taking the time to refine your writing will pay off in the long run.