Gwen Reads
asked
Elizabeth Eulberg:
Hey! I was wondering how many times you would recommend reading over/reviewing a piece of work? i've just finished a novel, and i'd really like some tips or advice on how to improve it/ bad little things to look out for.
Elizabeth Eulberg
Hello Quinn and congrats on finishing your novel--that's a HUGE step and I hope you celebrated!
There isn't a set answer for how many times you should review a manuscript. I do about two revisions on my own, reading through it and figuring out what needs to be added/cut/re-worked. Then I give it to a reader who I know will give me feedback--I don't want to hear "it's great" because I know there is always ways to improve it. Then I do another revision, I may find another person to read it before I give it to my agent or editor. My editor generally sees the fourth or fifth draft of something. Basically, it's at the point where I can't look at it critically anymore. A fresh pair of eyes is always a book's best friend.
Happy writing!
There isn't a set answer for how many times you should review a manuscript. I do about two revisions on my own, reading through it and figuring out what needs to be added/cut/re-worked. Then I give it to a reader who I know will give me feedback--I don't want to hear "it's great" because I know there is always ways to improve it. Then I do another revision, I may find another person to read it before I give it to my agent or editor. My editor generally sees the fourth or fifth draft of something. Basically, it's at the point where I can't look at it critically anymore. A fresh pair of eyes is always a book's best friend.
Happy writing!
More Answered Questions
Wordy Nerd
asked
Elizabeth Eulberg:
I once wrote you an email and wished you had answered but I did love your book Take A Bow. Here are my questions: why do you write the kinds of books you do? Is writing easy for you? What would you suggest to someone who wants to be a writer to start doing? When you begin writing your story, do you know what the ending will be? How long does it take to complete one of your books? Can you describe your writing style?
About Goodreads Q&A
Ask and answer questions about books!
You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.
See Featured Authors Answering Questions
Learn more
