How to Copyedit Your Own Novel

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By bbrassell
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Article Rating: (3 Ratings)

Perhaps one of the greatest difficulties for an author is attempting to view her own work with fresh eyes. Take a glance at the following tips on how to copyedit your own novel before you take out that red pen...or put on that third pot of coffee.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

basic copyediting manual (optional)
red pens/pencils
notebook
latest version of Microsoft Word or similar word processor

Step 1

Begin the process of copyediting your novel by putting the piece away for a bit. Give yourself time to read other materials, and let your manuscript simmer on low heat for as long as possible (at least a few weeks). When you do pick it up again, you'll be less likely to mentally "fill in" and overlook your mistakes.
Step 2

When it's time to return to the manuscript, begin editing slowly. Make a goal of 3-7 pages per hour and stick to that goal. While many professional copyeditors may be able to review a novel more rapidly, editing your own piece may make you more susceptible to oversights. As such, take your time...
Step 3

Try reading each paragraph backwards. While you will be concentrating on consistency and coherency within the novel at some point, initially you may want to do some general clean-up (this is especially useful if you plan on hiring a professional editor later, as some housekeeping ahead of time may save you a great deal on hourly charges). Reading your manuscript backwards will force your eyes to work harder, making it a bit more likely that you will catch those common errors and typos.
Step 4

Edit line by line after reading an entire paragraph. Because you'll be able to tell which sentences should be cut or rearranged only after you have read an entire passage (which can be a whole page rather than a paragraph, if you prefer), clenching that red pen with white knuckles for a few minutes longer may save you some time and frustration in the long run.
Step 5

Take notes. Use a new notebook (or several notebooks) that you can refer to throughout your project, and list questions you may have to research or forward to a professional editor. Be sure to note the manuscript page, paragraph, and line that your question refers to.
Step 6

Choose a style manual and stick by it (for the most part). A style guide is your best ally when it comes to answering those pesky, obscure questions about grammar and usage. Choose one, preferably the one that your professional editor will be using, and let it guide you in most cases. However, style guides can differ on their suggestions, so the tough calls are really up to you.
Step 7

Keep in mind that there are many free online resources for those editing their own novels in the early stages. Take a look at the resources below should you have any questions.