Revision

A sensitivity read checks your manuscript for stereotypes and false notes. Here’s what it is, who does it, what it costs, and whether your book needs one.

Finished a draft? This 4-step first revision process helps you get distance, find the real problems, and fix them in the right order.

Not every critique sounds like one. Here are 3 sneaky types of writing feedback, from “I didn’t finish it” to “No notes!”, and how to act on each.

Really, very, that, thing — three categories of overused words that weaken otherwise strong writing. Here’s when to cut them, when to keep them, and what to use instead.

CMS, APA, AP, AMA, MLA — choosing the right style manual depends entirely on what you’re writing and who you’re writing it for. Here’s how to find yours.

More words don't mean more meaning. This practical editing guide shows you three types of wordiness to hunt down in any draft—and how to decide whether to cut, condense, or keep.

Learn how professional proofreaders read book proofs—from checking front matter and tables of contents to catching widows, orphans, and composition errors. A step-by-step process for authors and editors.

Learn how to create a manuscript style sheet from scratch—and why every author needs one. This step-by-step guide covers what goes on a style sheet, when to start it, and how editors use it throughout the publishing process.

Perfectionism doesn't make your writing better — it stops you from finishing. Here's what 21 years in publishing taught me about quality, errors, and knowing when to call it done.

Finished your first draft? Here's how to tackle your first revision efficiently—when to start, what to look for, and how to plan your attack.

Your manuscript has bugs. Beta readers are how you find them before your readers do. Here's how to build the beta reading team that will actually make your book better—and who to use with caution.

The time you spent on the manuscript that isn't working is already gone whether you quit or not. The only question is what you spend next.

Too many characters and readers lose track. Too few and the story feels empty. Here's how to find the right cast size—and what to do when you have too many.

Three Evernote templates for writers who want to organize their projects, track submissions, and research markets—plus how to set up a writing life that actually stays organized.

If you had a single tool that could organize your entire revision process—from plot hole to final polish—would that make your book better?