How to Make the Most Out of Writing Clearly

Words, aren’t they lovely? It’s why we’re in the business we are, and embracing your creativity is what makes writing unique. Arguably the most enjoyable part of writing is using fancy flourishes, but we believe there is professional value and fun to be had when you adhere to the following 3 ‘c’s of writing: be clear, concise and consistent. 
Clarity is an important part of the editorial process. Once that first draft is finished and you feel ready to let it go, you must return to it with a new role firmly in your mind--that of an Editor. Ideally this should be you in the first instance, followed swiftly by a professional before final publication. A manuscript which is not written clearly stands out for all the wrong reasons. At Rowanvale Books, we can provide editorial support at all stages of this process.  
 Let’s dig a little deeper:  

• Be Clear.

 First, you must have clarity of plot. Keep the ‘elevator pitch’ of your novel or non-fiction work in mind and check that your writing is doing what you promised. Second, keep your audience at the forefront when you edit. Is the vocabulary clear or have you occasionally changed voice? Lastly, if you’re writing in a particular genre, make sure your storyline doesn’t deviate too far away from this--be sure you know who you’re writing for and what you’re trying to say.  

• ​Be Concise.

The writing process is supposed to provide you with room to breathe and delve into your characters or subject matter. However, at the end of your manuscript there will inevitably be a lot that can remain unsaid without losing the arc of the plot or your academic argument. If you can make the same point with less words, you should. Each word needs to earn its place, each sentence needs to drive the plot or argument forward. Sometimes, you just have to let go of a favourite line or word. Save these in your compost heap and use them in a future piece of work, but don’t keep them just because they’re beautiful.  

• Be Consistent.

When in the flow of writing, it can be tempting to edit as you go. However, this often impedes the muse and stifles the story, so it’s best left until the end. Even the most competent stream of consciousness writer will make errors in consistency--either in vocabulary (repetition of a phrase, inconsistent acronyms or change of spelling), or even in plot (perhaps a character has changed location, but you forgot to say why). Clarity of writing is closely entwined with consistency; you will pull readers out of your story or argument if they spot grammatical or plot-driven errors. Take a manageable section at a time, a cup of tea and a notepad and make sure that your readers can rely on your steady hand. 

So, what’s the best way to do this before sending your manuscript over to a professional? Well, the best advice we can give is to read your work aloud one section at a time. It is amazing what you will ‘hear’ that sounds out of place, clunky, unnecessary or repetitive. You will also discover what is working well, what propels the story forward, and what lines shimmer like clear cut crystal.  
Still need of an extra pair of eyes or simply don’t have the time to edit your own work? Rowanvale Books has a range of editing services, including access to experienced BETA readers. Worried about cost? We frequently assess market prices to ensure we remain competitive; our most basic proofreading option starts from as little as £102 and access to BETA readers comes in at £130 for 5 readers up to 10k words. If you would like a tailored quote for your manuscript, get in touch here.