Guidelines on Revising Your Narrative

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The editing process is a crucial step in bringing a story to life, and it involves more than just a few tweaks here and there. Whether you're working with a professional editor or a group of beta readers, it's essential to approach the process with an open mind while keeping your creative vision at the forefront.

In the editing process, the author holds the final say in applying or discarding suggestions. However, it's important to thoroughly consider each editor's feedback before making a decision. An editing letter outlining major issues and considerations, with specific notes on the manuscript, can be a valuable tool in this regard.

Beta readers, who may or may not be writers, also provide valuable feedback. It's essential to consider the background, reading habits, and consistency of suggestions from these readers. Some betas may worry about hurting the author's feelings, and a questionnaire can help address this concern.

Waiting until all feedback is in before making changes is another crucial aspect of the editing process. This allows you to take a comprehensive look at the suggestions and make informed decisions about which ones would improve the story.

In a critique group, it's possible to identify a "Guy In Your MFA" who may not provide useful feedback. Conversely, having a small group of close critique partners whose feedback you apply almost 100% of the time can be beneficial.

It's also important to consider the source of the feedback. Editor feedback, provided by a professional trained to look for specific literary elements, carries a certain weight. However, not all feedback needs to be applied in a group setting, as a trusted writing partner can help in deciding the validity of a suggestion.

If editor suggestions seem "off" or automated, discussing them with a trusted critique partner can help clarify any confusion. It's also beneficial to have a trusted writing partner to consult when deciding whether to apply a suggestion.

In the end, remember that you, as the author, know your story better than anyone else. If a suggestion doesn't feel right for the story, it should not be used. The editing process involves shaping and reshaping the story until it becomes the masterpiece you envisioned.

The author who published the article "The Advantages of a Writing Group" in the category "Writing Articles" is not specified in the available information. However, the process of a critique group—waiting for all feedback, deciding if suggested changes would improve the story, and considering the source of the feedback—is a universal aspect of the editing process.