5 Steps to Edit the Second Draft of a Novel

The simple editing process to turn your messy first draft into a second draft you love.“I’ve written first drafts before, but I’ve never edited a second draft. How do you actually do it?”A writer asked me this a few days ago. And they’re not alone—it’s a question I hear a lot.How do you actually edit a novel? Is there a process? A system? A strategy? Something, anything, to guide you after you finish the first draft?Yes. Yes, there’s a process to edit a novel.Better yet, it’s a simple process. (That doesn’t mean it’s easy—don’t get those confused. But it’s not complicated.)And in this episode, I’ll walk you through this process step by step.You’ll learn:The 5-step editing process I use with all my one-on-one clientsHow to customize this process to make it work for YOUThe trap you risk falling into if you don’t use this processWhere the REAL work of developmental editing happens (hint: it’s not about changing the words in your manuscript!)Why this process will make your editing clearer, more effective, and more efficientAnd more!If you’ve ever felt lost, confused, daunted, or completely overwhelmed by the very idea of editing your novel——or if you’ve been editing, but you can’t tell whether you’re making progress or just spinning your wheels——then this episode is for you.Links mentioned in the episode:Work with me: alicesudlow.com/contactEp. 31: 3 Ways to Create a Scene List That Makes Your Editing Process (Almost) EasyStory Structure: The 6 Essential Elements of Every Novel, Act, and SceneCharacter Arcs: Three-Act or Four-Act Structure: Which Is Best for Your Novel?Theme: Your Story Has Deep Meaning. Do You Know What It Is?Point of View: The Most Important Principle When Choosing Your Point of ViewSend me a Text Message!Support the showRate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts "I love Alice and Your Next Draft." If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more writers through the mess—and joy—of the editing process. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap the stars to rate, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Loving the show? Show your support with a monthly contribution »

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