You’ve heard of writing prompts, now we have revision prompts! Each prompt will give you a specific writing issue to check for in your WIP, along with tips on how to fix each. Going through this process one issue at a time will not only help polish your current novel but will also teach you specific ways to improve your writing for your next story.
DIALOGUE STYLE: Dialogue needs to be in the paragraph with the actions and thoughts of the character speaking. You do not start a new paragraph when someone speaks.
CORRECT:
John hit the button to retract the roof of the red Mustang. Now to hit the road and feel the wind on his face. He saluted the huge Ford sign in front of the dealership as he pulled out onto the road, then hit the gas. At the roar of the engine, he shouted, “Suh-weet ride!”
INCORRECT:
John hit the button to retract the roof of the red Mustang convertible. Now to hit the road and feel the wind on his face. He saluted the huge Ford sign in front of the dealership as he pulled out onto the road, then hit the gas.
At the roar of the engine, he shouted, “Suh-weet ride!”
One of the keys to publication is a willingness to learn. We hope our Revising Prompts will help you learn more about the craft of writing and speed you on your way to publication.