Improving a draft.
WHAT DRAFTING IS FOR
Getting the substance down.
WHAT EDITING IS FOR
Making it work.
WHY SEPARATE THEM
Editing while drafting prevents finishing anything.
WHAT TO DO FIRST
Leave it, if time permits.
WHY
Distance reveals problems invisible immediately after writing.
WHAT TO CHECK FIRST
Does it answer the question? Is the argument clear? Is the structure logical? Is anything missing?
WHAT TO CHECK SECOND
Does each paragraph make one point? Is each claim supported? Does each section connect?
WHAT TO CHECK LAST
Sentences, words, spelling, references.
WHY THAT ORDER
Polishing a paragraph you later delete is wasted effort.
WHAT TO CUT
Anything not serving the argument.
WHY
Almost every draft improves by being shortened.
WHAT TO READ ALOUD
All of it.
WHAT TO CHECK MECHANICALLY
Word count Formatting requirements Every reference, against the source
WHAT TO DO LAST
Read it once as a reader, not as the writer.
