About this episode

This episode provides 10 tips for revising a first draft to transform it into a compelling novel.

What separates a decent first draft from a truly compelling novel? In this episode, we’ll provide you with 10 tips on the art of revision and explore the strategies that transform rough manuscripts into powerful stories readers can’t put down. Whether you’re tackling your first revision or your fifth, this episode will help you approach the process with clarity, confidence, and a sharper editorial eye. SHOW NOTES: Walk Away Read Through Identify your Core Story Focus on Big Ideas First Revise in Layers Strengthen Character Motivation Raise the Stakes Cut and Move Check Scene Purpose Sharpen Openings and Endings SOURCES & LINKS “How to Revise a Novel,” Holly Lisle https://hollylisle.com/how-to-revise-a-novel/ “Novel Revision Checklist,” Nathan Bransford https://nathanbransford.com/blog/2022/06/revision-checklist Books on story structure, character, motivation and stakes Story Genius, Wired for Story by Lisa Kron Save the Cat Writes a Novel by Jessica Brody Related ATB Episodes: Editing and Revision Methods, Episode 21 (backwards outline, color coding, notecards…) Editing (interview with 2 editors), Episode 51 Tension and Conflict, Episode 61 DO NOW: Determine where you are in…

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