The Role of Self-Editing in Writing: Navigating the First Draft vs. Later Edits

Writing a book is a complex and often painstaking process. One of the most crucial decisions a writer must make is when and how to engage in self-editing. Is it acceptable to self-edit while drafting the first chapter, or should it be reserved for later drafts? This article explores the merits of both approaches, offering guidance on how to achieve the best results while maintaining a steady writing rhythm.

Focus on Completing the First Draft First

The primary goal of a first draft is to get the story down on paper, not to produce a polished final product. It's essential to focus on finishing the initial draft without overthinking or obsessing over minor details. As Stephen King once said, "Write well, or not at all." This mindset encourages writers to keep their momentum going and complete the first draft as soon as possible.

Why Obsessing over Minor Details is Counterproductive

Many writers, particularly new ones, take a meticulous approach to editing during the first draft. They might find themselves overthinking punctuation, the placement of commas, or even the flow of sentences. While attention to detail is important, too much self-editing at this stage can be detrimental. It can slow down the writing process, making it difficult to complete the initial draft. Instead, focus on capturing the essence of your story and its characters. The details can be refined later.

Engaging in Heavy Editing Later

Once the first draft is complete, it's time to turn to more substantial edits. This stage, often referred to as revision, is when the story truly begins to take shape. The first draft provides a solid foundation, and now it's time to build upon it. Here are the key steps to follow for effective revision:

High-Level Editing

1. Pacing and Structure: Ensure that the story flows well and has a clear structure. Does it have a clear protagonist or multiple protagonists with well-defined arcs and journeys towards their primary goals? Are the plot points and story structure clear and focused?

2. Character and Plot Development: Analyze the character development and plot points. Is there a clear main plot or several subplots that can be further refined? Identify any pacing issues and clear up any inconsistencies.

Scene-Level Editing

1. Scene Structure: Check the structure of each scene for a clear inciting incident, rising conflict, climax, and resolution. Does the protagonist have a specific goal for each scene, and is the scene goal clear and achievable?

2. Description and Dialogue: Evaluate the balance between dialogue, internal monologue, description, exposition, and action. Ensure there is a good mix and that the pacing and flow are as intended.

Line-Level Editing

1. Phrasing and Flow: Review each sentence for clarity and coherence. Is the narrative voice consistent and engaging? Look for any instances of purple prose or flowery writing that might detract from the story. Check for consistency in character details, such as eye color, and ensure there are no typos or grammatical errors.

Flexible Approaches to Self-Editing

Depending on personal writing habits, some writers may find it helpful to self-edit as they go. For those who like to revise as they write, it's advisable to make changes in the current chapter and continue without revisiting earlier sections. For example, if the addition of a new character or subplot is intended, write it in and move forward without revisiting the earlier chapters. This method helps maintain a smooth writing flow and reduces the risk of getting stuck in a prolonged editing process.

Conclusion: Striking the Right Balance

Whether you choose to self-edit during the first draft or save it for later, the key is finding a balance that works for you. Writing is a blend of art and science, and each writer has their unique process. Experiment with different approaches and see what helps you produce the best work.

Remember, the most important thing is to complete the first draft. Once you have the complete story on paper, the editing process will be much more manageable and effective. Happy writing!