The Secret to Writing and Revising: Why Multiple Readings Improve Your Novel

Writing a novel is a tedious yet rewarding process. It involves multiple readings and revisions to ensure that your story flows smoothly and resonates with readers. In this article, we will explore the importance of multiple readings during the writing process, strategies for effective revisions, and the key steps to self-publishing a successful novel.

Understanding the Importance of Multiple Readings

In the writing process, it is not uncommon to read your manuscript multiple times. For instance, when I wrote my most recent romantic comedy novel, I read it at least ten times, with some parts requiring more attention than others. While some sections flowed naturally, others needed thorough refinement.

Each reading allows you to refine and polish the story, ensuring coherence and clarity. Reading it as a cohesive piece helps you identify areas for improvement and enhances the overall quality. This is a necessary step in crafting a compelling and well-structured narrative, even if it means revisiting the manuscript numerous times for a thorough and thoughtful revision.

Frequent Revisions and Their Benefits

Getting started with self-publishing can present some challenges, but these can be overcome with the right approach. After publishing over 200 books on Amazon and running 120 million Amazon ads, I have discovered the secret to making self-publishing a smooth and successful endeavor.

The key is to break down the steps into manageable, bite-sized chunks. I recommend using a self-publishing secrets checklist to guide you through the process. By following these steps, you can streamline the self-publishing journey and increase your chances of success.

Revising and Improving Your Manuscript

Revising your manuscript is an integral part of the writing process. It is not uncommon to read your writings very frequently and repeatedly, especially when editing and tweaking. This is because ensuring that the story flows smoothly and that everything in the novel is well-placed for the reader is crucial.

Some parts of your novel might come more easily, requiring fewer reads, while others might need several rounds of editing. For instance, during the writing process of my most recent novel, I read it at least ten times. Each read-through allowed me to identify and address issues, making the story more coherent and engaging.

After completing your novel, don't rush to publish it. It's often a good idea to set the manuscript aside for a few months (at least three) to gain some distance. This fresh perspective can help you see the story with a clearer eye and make necessary adjustments before final publication.

Cleaning Up as You Go

My approach to revisions is to “clean-up as you go.” This method helps you maintain the narrative flow and pacing while ensuring that the story remains engaging. Re-reading the last chapter or two frequently helps recapture the narrative voice and fit into the current pacing.

During this process, you might notice a few errors or areas that need improvement. For example, you might realize a typographical slip-up, a line of dialogue that could be improved, or a note that you haven't added yet. Addressing these issues as you go ensures a smoother writing experience for the next scene.

Final Revisions and Polish

After making substantial revisions, you might want to read the entire manuscript to see how it holds together. As part of my current revisions for a previous novel, I read it top to bottom at least twice, in addition to re-reading sequences with a lot of edits. This comprehensive review helps you ensure that the story flows seamlessly and all elements align.

The Role of Tools and Resources

Tools and resources can significantly aid the process of writing and revising. For instance, using software like Grammarly can help you catch typos and improve your writing. Additionally, having a beta reader or a critique group can provide valuable feedback and insights.

By understanding the importance of multiple readings and following a structured revision process, you can significantly improve the quality of your novel. Whether you are a seasoned writer or a new author, revising your work thoroughly is essential for creating a compelling narrative that resonates with readers.

Conclusion

Multiple readings and thorough revisions are crucial steps in the writing process. By dedicating time to fine-tuning your manuscript, you can craft a compelling and well-structured narrative. If you follow the steps outlined in my self-publishing secrets checklist, you can make the self-publishing journey easier and more successful.