Questions to ask as you revise your first draft

Hello, fellow storytellers! Let's talk about the beast that is your first draft. You've finally put your story down on paper (or the digital equivalent), and now you're staring at it, wondering, 'What next?' Well, now comes the fun part – revising. This is the stage where you get to play detective, questioning every choice you've made and every character you've created. It's like being Sherlock Holmes, but instead of solving a crime, you're solving plot holes, character inconsistencies, and wayward descriptions. So, put on your detective hat, grab your magnifying glass, and let's dive in!

Your story is your suspect

Just like a good detective, you need to interrogate your manuscript. Are there parts that reflect your own judgements and biases? If so, are they intruding on the story, or are they adding a unique perspective? We're writers, not robots, and it's natural for some of our worldviews to seep into our stories. But remember, we're here to tell a story, not preach. So if your biases overshadow the narrative, it's time for some tough love.

Is your style playing nice with your point of view?

Next, let's talk about style. Has your writing style evolved organically out of the story's point of view? Or is it like that awkward cousin standing out and making everyone uncomfortable at a family gathering? Make sure your style and point of view are two peas in a pod, complementing each other instead of clashing.

Every character matters

No one likes feeling left out, and your minor characters are no exception. Are they underdeveloped or two-dimensional? Remember, even though they're not in the spotlight, they're still a part of your story's world. Give them some love, and your readers will thank you.

The dance of the scenes

Have a look at your scene sequence. Is it a beautifully choreographed dance, or is it more like a toddler's first steps – a bit wobbly and all over the place? Consider if reshuffling the scenes could make the story flow better.

Avoid the cliché trap

Let's turn our attention to dialogue and thought tags. Have you fallen into the trap of using stock-standard ones? Your characters are individuals, and how they speak and think should reflect that. So if you've used 'he said' and 'she thought' a few too many times, it's time for a change.

Setting the stage

While setting descriptions can add depth to your story, there's a fine line between being immersive and being a travel guide. If your descriptions are starting to sound like they belong in a Lonely Planet guidebook, it might be time to trim them down a bit.

Flashbacks: Handle with care

Flashbacks can be a powerful tool when used correctly, but they can also be a sledgehammer to your narrative if used crudely. Are your flashbacks adding value to your story, or are they just confusing your readers?

Are you keeping them on the edge of their seats?

Lastly, let's talk about tension. A story without tension is like a joke without a punchline – flat and unsatisfying. Have you built enough tension to keep your readers hooked?

Revising your first draft can feel like unravelling a knitted sweater – pull the wrong thread, and the whole thing can come undone. But armed with these questions, you'll be well-equipped to tackle the task. And remember, it's your story – you're in control. Now go forth and revise!

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