The Bones of Self-Editing

The Bones of Self-Editing

I gave a talk to a gathering of indie authors last month on self-editing. This is the basic handout, which writers may find useful as they develop their WIPs.

·       Learn the fundamental rules of style and grammar.

Style Guide: The Elements of Style – New Hart’s Rules – New Oxford Style Manual – The Chicago Manual of Style

·       Build a personal reference library – hone your writing skills through personal study.

·       Actively read novels, noting dialogue, description, punctuation, point of view, conflict, and character arc, etc. Take time to read outside your chosen genre.

·       Self-editing is more than correcting grammar and punctuation. The process should be slow and steady, taking one aspect of the whole at a time.

 

First Read

1.     Notebook and pen – jot down impressions

2.     The big picture – 3-act structure – Story/Plot – make sure it works

3.     Character arc\learning curve – change

4.     Are characters fully developed and consistent?   

Create a comprehensive character timeline.

 

Line-edit

                                               i.     Deep-focused comprehensive review

                                             ii.     Brutal honesty required

                                           iii.     RUE: Resist the Urge to Explain – Less is often More

                                            iv.     Pull sentences back to their bones, cutting unnecessary repetition, filter phrasing, redundant elements, negative patterns

                                             v.     Test adjectives and adverbs

                                            vi.     Are objectives being met?

                                          vii.     Each action/reaction needs to be justified

                                        viii.     Mark MC’s proactive points

                                            ix.     Considered rewriting kills first-draft issues

 

Activate Your Writing

·       Use active verbs to drive the story forward. Research dangling modifiers/participles – Test adjectives – can the noun stand alone? Have confidence in your writing and allow the power of context carry your story to the reader.

 

Dialogue

·       Get it right. Research the rules until you have them absorbed.

·       Cut unnecessary dialogue tags. Exploit action tags. Don’t use ‘said bookisms’.

 

Point-of-View

Become a pov expert. Learn the rules. Apply them. Practice makes perfect.

·       Tighten narrative distance by cutting unnecessary filter phrasing.

·       Be careful to catch tense blips, and look for consistency throughout.

 

Proofreading

·       The final job – Galley copy – Read it aloud – slow and meticulous.

 

Style Sheet – Create as you write – revise during rewrites.

·       Character details, place names, time – setting – continuity – particular spelling choices.

 

Idiot-Check – Leave nothing behind.

Taking Bookings for 2025

My calendar is now open for bookings in early 2025. If you've developed your WIP to a stage where it will be ready for its professional edit, drop me a line and we can chat about your options. You can also avail of a free sample edit.

A sample edit allows the writer see if a particular editor’s approach suits their specific requirements. On the other hand, it gives the editor a chance to determine the writer’s level, how far the manuscript has been developed, and how much work needs to be done to bring it forward.

It’s important to understand that a sample edit is just a partial view of the editor’s service, with mine being a three-phase operation entailing a substantive line-edit, followed by a deep-focus copy-edit, and finished off with a comprehensive run-through that sees the work ready for its final rewrite and pre-release/submission prepping.

What the writer receives in the sample edit is a step inside the first phase, where undeveloped material is shaped and cleansed of all first-fix issues. The recommendation, of course, and one I always make, is for the writer to connect with at least half-a-dozen editors so they can build a fairly solid comparison between several professionals’ work methods and approaches.

If the writer likes my sample and wishes to commission me, we then have a chat about what lies ahead. I am always booked into the near-distant future, but time flies and it’s usually only a short hop before work begins. I expect half-payment up front, with the remainder due before the completed first edit is returned. What happens after that is up to the client. If they have the time to focus on the rewrite, I’ll suggest a soft deadline to work towards. If life means work is stretched out, it’s not a problem – I know how things are in that department and will always work within the client’s timetable. If it takes a few weeks, months, or even a year or more, I’m good with that. My priority is to develop the work-in-progress to its full potential, and having the writer fully on board ensures that will happen.

What do you have to do? Email two chapters, from different parts of your WIP, as a Word document to clearviewediting@gmail.com and I’ll provide a sample edit from one.

Client reviews: Clear-View Fiction Editing (writingfromtheoutsidein.blogspot.com) 

My website: Clearview Fiction Editing

First Chapter Three-Phase Edit

Have you doubts about your opening chapter to your novel? Are you unsure about your writing, your characters, your story? Send me your first chapter and I will edit it through three phases - a process which will leave it highly developed, allowing you to see how your writing can benefit from such a comprehensive approach. When I return your edited submission, you rewrite it, applying my suggestions as you see fit, before sending it back to me for its second round of edits, a phase which is as thorough as the first. You then repeat the process with my second edit before returning it to me for its final round, and when you've rewritten that, you'll be able to fully appreciate just how far your piece has come from the initial submission.

I charge by the word. All you need to do is submit a Word document of your first chapter, along with a synopsis of your novel, to clearviewediting@gmail.com and I will read through the submission, give you a quote, and if you agree, we're good to go.

I have worked as a fulltime substantive editor for well over a decade, collaborating with dozens of writers from across the globe, and my reputation as a professional who cares for his clients speaks for itself. My client reviews below will confirm that.

Client reviews: Clear-View Fiction Editing (writingfromtheoutsidein.blogspot.com)

My website: Clearview Fiction Editing

                                          CLIENT REVIEWS

               

You can't beat a clear view where story development is concerned. No better place to get that than with me. My calendar is open for Spring and Summer '25.

Client reviews are always appreciated. Here are a few for your perusal. If you wish to contact me to chat about having your work edited, drop me a line at clearviewediting@gmail.com or DM me on my Twitter or Facebook pages. 

Ali Graham - Poetry and Short Fiction Writer

I discovered Clear-View Fiction Editing on social media, recommended by other writers. I made contact via email, and Eamon offered me a free sample edit, which is advertised on the website.

I received the sample edit and was gobsmacked. Eamon had taken what I had written and masterfully worked a kind-of-magic. I was now able to turn my story into a beautiful thing. After this, I sent Eamon the remaining seven short stories.

Each new edit I received filled me with excitement, nervousness, and joy. By the time I received the 3rd edit, I knew I was approaching the top of a mountain.

Unlike a workshop on writing fiction, where you expect to hone your skills, and come away having learnt something, maybe had one-to-one tutoring, I expected my short stories to just be edited and returned, but Eamon gave much more, and I have been left stunned by the process. I’ve learned so much in so little time.  My experience with Clear-View Fiction Editing has been a game changer!

I’ll be back.

David Duford - Long and Short Fiction Writer

I first contacted Eamon in 2016, after a recommendation from someone in my writing group. Up to that point, I was working full time and had been writing in my spare time. I was looking for an editor who could look at my recently "finished" first novella and guide me through a process I understood little about.

What I received was an education as to what the editing process is all about, and realizing my story wasn't nearly finished! After I received Eamon's thoughts on my first three chapters, I knew he was the man for the job. He approaches each piece on its own merits, offering suggestions and tweaks along the way, all with a refreshing sense of humor and humility. As he continually states, the final choice is up to the author, and all he is doing is offering differing perspectives to think over.

To many of you authors, what I've listed above might seem like what an editor is expected to do, yet what I am most impressed with is how Eamon goes above and beyond to challenge me. It is obvious he approaches his work from the perspective of one who enjoys reading. If he sees an opportunity for a story to improve, regardless of the work that entails, he is not afraid to put it right out there for consideration. Sometimes, after many drafts, it's hard to think about changing course, rewriting paragraphs and pages, but I have found his advice sound and logical in almost every case.

He has simply made me a better writer.

I would not hesitate to recommend Eamon and Clear-View Fiction Editing for your next project, whether you're a novice or a veteran. You'll be glad you retained his services.

Pat McDermott - multi-genre indie author of adventure and romance set in Ireland

Eamon and I became friends on FB years ago, and we occasionally meet for tea when I visit Sligo. After I wrote my last book, I thought I'd take my usual break from writing, but my writing group encouraged me to reveal more about a memorable character in the book. And so, I wrote a short story set in early medieval Ireland. Rather than spend ages going over it, and since I was curious about Eamon's editing skills, I asked if he could fit me into his busy schedule. To my delight, he could. I've written several books and worked with many editors over the years, and Eamon is among the best. He not only knows and loves his job, he's also encouraging and tactful with his comments and suggestions. My story is shining now. Thank you so much, Eamon!

Martha Higgins - currently querying debut novel

It was a pleasure to work with Eamon, of Clear-View Fiction Editing. He is scrupulous in his attention to detail. His suggestions helped me to flesh out the story and strengthen my writing. He is professional and encouraging and I learned so much from the experience. I trust his advice and knowledge knowing that he is very diligent in his work. 

Tasha Sheipline – author of The Whispers series

The editing phase of writing is not something many people look forward to doing. It is certainly a space where all of your self-doubt peaks. In honesty, I was very anxious about sending my work to an editor, knowing that it needed much work. Eamon made everything about this experience a learning opportunity. His knowledge of how a story needs to develop is extensive, and very reader centered. He has the wonderful ability to really make you think about your story from multiple angles. Not only is he considerate with his suggestions, but he brings such humor to the process, that you forget it’s even work. His advice is always spot on, Eamon is just that good. He won my trust right away. His guidance has strengthened me as a writer, and my polished manuscript is beyond what I could ever have imagined. I’m thrilled to work with him on my future projects.

Jessie Winterspring - author of In Another Time

I had my upcoming book, a time-travel romance, edited by 3 editors before Eamon. I only contacted him looking for a final read through, and get some opinion from a man's perspective. What I found was a treasure that I wish to hide and brag about at the same time. 😆

He took my manuscript, which I thought was nearly done, and showed me that work was only about to begin. He caught so many flaws and embarrassing mistakes, which made me silently scream and bang my head. However, now that it's over, I feel more confident about my story. His gentle, yet firm guidance will make any writer improve a lot. I learned so much working with him and I can't recommend him enough.

L.G. Camellia - Author

I cannot put in words how lucky and grateful I am that I came across Eamon on one of the Facebook Groups for Writers. For someone whose first language is not English, but I write in English, I thought that my novel will never see the light of day, until I found Eamon. He is absolutely the most dedicated, passionate, and committed editor out there!!! He took on my project, and created miracles with my messy manuscript. His eye for details, continuity of the story, reader engagement, etc, is just out of this world for me. Due to personal reasons, it took me 9 years to finish my novel, and it may be 10 years by the time I will see it in print; however, thanks to Eamon I am more confident than ever before that my novel will be published. I have no doubt now. After his edits, I am also going to pitch agents again. Don't hesitate, if you are looking for an editor, he is the man! I will be forever grateful for his incredible edits. 

Mary M. Trant - Author of Life Between the Mountains and the Sea

As a first-time writer, I cannot put into words how lucky and grateful I am to have found Eamon the editor behind Clear-View Fiction Editing. It would be extremely difficult to find someone, who approaches his work with such kindness, passion and dedication to the craft, as he does. His eye for detail, reader engagement and all-round attention to detail are absolutely amazing. If you are looking for an editor, I highly recommend Eamon and I will be forever grateful for his incredible editing of my manuscript.

Birgitte Necessary - author and ballerina

I approached Eamon for editing help with a little trepidation. I wasn't familiar with his abilities, but I'd reached a place in the writing of my novel where I was desperate for help in sorting out my ideas, my direction, my concept, but more importantly my fear that the mess I sent him wasn't worthy of his time or mine.

Eamon returned his detailed notes with kindness, directness, and a wordsmithing skill that floored me. He was as unfamiliar with me and my work as I'd been of him, yet he was able to drill right down to the core of what I was writing and show me the strength of it, and step me through the problems that needed sorting. And sorting we did. And are still doing, because I've become rather addicted to his brilliance, and convinced I can't finish this work without him.

For the first time in almost a year, I feel excited again about my story, my characters, and my own ability, and that's largely due to Eamon and his knowledgeable and guiding editorial hand.

If you're on the fence about hiring Eamon, let me be the one to push you off. Do it. Do it now. Your story is waiting.

Phillipa Vincent-Connolly - author of the Timeless Falcon series

Eamon is a wonder with words! What helps is no matter what level your writing is at, he critiques, edits and completely changes for the better, any manuscript he works on, with humour, genuine interest, and a passion for what he does. You can rest assured that your work will be developed into its very best state ready for publication. Eamon has worked with me on three manuscripts now, and I love his thought process when he comments on my work.

Tom Equels - author of The Horseman's Tale

I want to extend a big thank you to Eamon. He is a wonderful editor. Much of my 'horse' novel takes place in Ireland, so I wanted an Irish editor. Eamon was highly recommended to me, and his insights were extraordinary. He was true to his schedule, highly competent, professional, and I felt I got tremendous value. I am pleased to say the finished novel is powerful, compelling, pertinent and engaging.

 

MY RATING: 5 STARS!!!

David Barreto

I had the pleasure of working with Eamon during the production of my first historical non-fiction book which should be released at the end of this year. I knew that non-fiction and my genre in general weren’t his typical commission, but nonetheless, I received a professional and exceptional service. Since finding a publisher, I have worked with great editors but it all started with Eamon. He guided me through the most important stages of the production of my manuscript. His knowledge and patience were much appreciated. I can truly say that the success of any manuscript that passes through Eamon’s hands is due to his talent as an editor and writer as much as the author’s. I will definitely be seeking his services again.

Victoria Wolfe - novelist

Just wanted to say that Eamon is definitely one of the best editors out there!! I’m onto my second book with him already, with my first getting to that next phase – to be published. Let’s say it was in pieces, and he put all them together and gave me a book!! He is very thoughtful and thinks of so many different things to add. Honestly, Georgiana and Daughter of the Forest wouldn’t be the same without you, Eamon. 😝👌 And thankfully he gets my bits of humour I try get in there. 😂

 

5 Starsss all the way!!!!

Antoinette Edwards - author of the memoir: Bitter Sip of Wine

I highly recommend Eamon Ó Cléirigh of Clear-View Fiction Editing. Eamon's outstanding expertise has helped me to transform my memoir into a publishable book. His editing format was well organized, making it easy to follow as he guided me firmly into the rewrite. His emotional empathy and psychological understanding of the character in my story helped me to go deeper, to add more insight for the reader to grasp. Eamon is stellar in professionalism and wonderful to work with. I enjoyed his humorous side notes and insightful comments. His positive input on my writing abilities has made me more confident in my quest as a writer. I'm looking forward to working with Eamon again as I proceed to write the sequel to my book. Thank you, Eamon!

Joanna Foley - author of novels, short stories, and poetry

I had the luck of being referred to Eamon by a writing friend of mine. My first novel (not yet published) was finished, but no matter what I tried to add or remove, it was more than lacking in the ability to be read in a concise way – it was all over the field!

The thought of hiring an editor was a scary one for an anxious fusspot such as myself, and yet when my email dinged with a prompt response, I felt rather at home with the friendly and casual tone of the exchange. It was clear to understand what Eamon would be doing in his role as editor and I felt like I was speaking to a professional.

He did a sample edit for free, so that I could see if his editing style was right for me, and of course my testimonial here must prove that I was elated. Eamon gave much advice to improve various aspects of my storytelling in a concise and constructive way. Grammar, punctuation, and formatting were abilities I was not adept with, yet with great attention to every detail, these were all placed where they belonged – I learned a lot from Eamon through his thorough and insightful notes.

As more work was done, the edits felt almost like I was chatting with a dear friend, and I felt like I got to know Eamon and his little dog Cú, as if they were both cheering me along from their side of the internet like the most loyal of personal cheerleaders!

Now, with my writing refined and polished, I am nearing the next stage of my writing voyage. I know that Eamon will always be just a message away with any questions I might have or advice that I may need. Eamon is not alone a mender of words, but a comforting presence through battles uphill and down.

I would recommend Clear-View Editing to anyone, be it a short story, memoir, or novel...here you will find that you are in expert hands.

Bobby Burke 

I would just like to thank Eamon from Clear-View Fiction Editing for all the work he put into my short story recently. He helped guide the narrative and raise the level of not only the write, but also this writer.

Eamon edits your work in a manner that strengthens your draft and also educates you to the whys with little nuggets of wisdom along the way.

Cannot thank him enough, and cannot recommend him enough. If you have a manuscript sitting or something you are working on, tidy it up to your best level and contact Eamon at Clear-View Fiction Editing. You will not be disappointed.

Vivienne McPhail

Eamon's honesty, encouragement, and keen eye has helped improve my writing and my confidence. He is a master of his craft and a pleasure to deal with. I'm grateful to have found him and look forward to future projects under his guidance.

Melissa Saint-Hilaire 

I can't say enough good things about Clear-View Editing! Eamon raises the bar. He's funny and kind in his suggestions and always on point. He has single-handedly made me a better writer. I highly recommend him!

Casey King - crime novelist

Within weeks of Eamon working his magic on the final edits of my novel, I received several requests for full manuscripts, and I’m now signed with an agent. He helped me to pull the best from my book and have it reach its full potential. I would highly recommend Eamon and Clear-View Fiction Editing, as his skills are second to none.

Mary Bradford - multi-genre novelist

I've known Eamon for a number of years and when I need advice and editing for my, he is my go-to-man. He is someone who is thorough, professional, and above all else brilliant in working with you to bring out the best in your writing. Eamon is approachable on all aspects of writing and I have no hesitation in recommending him to anyone who is seeking an editor, they will not be disappointed.

Ray Ronan - author of To Die For and Molding Men

Working with Eamon as an editor is a trans-formative experience for both book and author... Having passed through other editors, it wasn't until I worked with Eamon that I really saw the value in my book and was proud to have it up there and published. I now felt I had something as professional as anything traditionally published. I'd highly recommend working with Clear-View. If you don't believe me, go read my book, To Die For... There. Review and pitch in one. If there are any errors in this review, that's all down to me. Eamon had nothing to do with it. 🙂

Attracta Fahy - Poet

I engaged Eamon in Clear-View Fiction Editing to support me with a personal project, which was a very complex and convoluted process. I found Eamon's approach to be professional, proficient, and extremely competent in the overall editing, structure, and proofreading of this work. Eamon's clarity in his work, attention to detail, insight and knowledge in his craft was invaluable.

I worked with Eamon while undertaking a Master’s Degree in Writing. His precise expertise and advice was a huge contributory factor in my overall achievement of an Honours Degree.

One quality that stands out is Eamon's honesty, and his advice in outlining realistic suggestions. Eamon is reasonable in price, offering very good value for work. Eamon is also easy to work with, he has a particular respect for the essence of what is being expressed in the writing itself. I have no hesitation in recommending him for any project.

It's Worth the Wait

I always make room in my schedule to provide sample edits for writers interested in seeing if my editing approach meets their requirements. And I’m a fan of writers approaching several editors in their search for one that suits them. It’s a healthy practice, and no editor will hold it against you for contacting as many as you like. It’s part of the wonderful process that is script development, and all part of bringing a top-quality product to the reader.

When a writer likes my editing approach and decides to commission me, some come in hard and fast, expecting me to begin more or less there and then. It goes without saying many are disappointed to learn that their editing slot may not become active for several months because the simple reality is that my work calendar is usually booked out into the relatively near future, with ‘relatively’ being the important term. For me, the months fly in because I’m always busy with first edits and rewrites, but the writer’s focus is honed on their work-in-progress they’ve probably been developing over the last year or so, maybe longer. In that regard, they feel the time more than I do, and the prospect of waiting ‘so long’ for the first edit can prove daunting.

That’s why I encourage writers, through my Twitter and Fb pages, to look ahead while they’re developing their early draft, so when they book an editor they have the potential wait of several months to bring their wip as far as they can before submitting. That way the wait is progressively filled, often with the writer applying tips from my sample edit to the rest of their wip.

So, dear writer, if you’re currently working on your early draft, now is the time to connect, sending me one or two chapters from your wip. Then, if we decide to work together, you won’t feel frustrated at the inevitable wait before your editing slot becomes active. Drop me a line at clearviewediting@gmail.com and we’ll take it from there.

One-Page Synopsis

 

Apart from my proven and popular three-phase editing service, I also offer a separate, affordable service to tighten and polish your synopsis down to one page. Why? Because, in my experience, many writers find it relatively easy to create a multi-point synopsis, except it often fills three or more pages, and we all know agents/publishers prefer the synopsis to be on the one page – nice and tight – with all superfluous elements taken out so pertinent plot-progression and character-arc details gain enhanced impact.

If you’re interested, send me your synopsis in a Word file, which I will read to see how much work is required. Then I’ll furnish you with my proposed fee and you can decide if you want to commission me. If we agree to work together, I’ll pull your synopsis into shape and return it to you, and you get to return it to me for another pass after reviewing it.

My details are below:

My email: clearviewediting@gmail.com

My website: https://clearviewfictionediting.com

Catch my reviews on my Fb page: https://www.facebook.com/clearviewfictionediting

A Little Green Therapy Goes A Long Way

I took a well-deserved break from work today and drove out to the wonderful Hazelwood demesne in Yeats' Country, just outside Sligo Town. It has to be one of my favourite places in the world, a rustic walking trail around a woodland peninsula on Lough Gill. It doesn't matter what time of year I visit, when the forest is skeletal in winter, flushed with green life in summer, or in the height of autumn's ochre-rich decay, it still infuses me with its magic, soothing all the hard edges developed from hours of intense focus as I edit through my working day. 

The photo above is a view from the bench at Sector 13, a peaceful spot I've come to love over the twenty years I've walked the loop. Just sitting there, breathing it in, savouring all aspects of the moment: the birdsong; the rustling leaves; glinting ripples across the water; the ever-changing shadow vista of the hill opposite; and the otherworld held within reflections, it leaves me...connected, content, and relieved of the weighty stresses of real life.

All creative souls know the benefits of taking time away from the work station, and there's no better way to do that than by losing yourself in the arms of a green therapist. Breathe deep and allow the softness of the moment hug you, for as long as it takes. Believe me, it's worth it. After my visit, I'm ready once again for the world, and hungry to get back to work.

Visit my website, or read through my blog to get a better idea of my editing approach. If you want to chat about your work in progress and having it professionally edited, drop me a line at clearviewediting@gmail.com - I'm always happy to correspond about writing and editing.