Writing a fantasy novel: Grammar and Editing

Step 4

A note about Grammar and Editing:

If you are going to write a book make sure you know your grammar and spelling. Even if your book has a brilliant plot, heartbreaking characters and fabulous dialogue, it will never sell if it is full of grammar and/or spelling mistakes. So know the basic rules, and use the spellcheck.

A list of some common beginner mistakes:
- Over use of commas
- Not properly separating dialogue passages from paragraphs
- Over use of adjectives/adverbs
- Spelling goofs such as using "there" instead of "their"
- Misuse of apostrophes
- Using the wrong emphasis: putting words in Bold Text or CAPITALS, instead of Italics

Mistakes are easy enough to make in your writing, (I certainly have made a few), which leads me into the topic of: Editing.

First Rule: a writer needs a good editor.

That said, you also have to self edit before your manuscript is seen by a professional editor. Be ruthless. Cut, slash and rework until the flow and tone are sparkling.
Reading your work out loud is an excellent way to see if there are clunky, awkward passages.

Here's a list of links to some helpful editing tips:

Self-editing

Forbidden Words: Advice for Writers