Editing + Revision
Self-Editing Tools
These tools are designed to help you refine your writing, catch errors, and polish your work before submitting or publishing. From grammar checkers to readability analyzers, these resources make self-editing more efficient and effective.
(Online Resource) - Grammarly
Grammarly offers real-time feedback on grammar, spelling, tone, and clarity. Its AI-powered suggestions are especially helpful for catching small errors that might slip past you during self-edits.
Why I recommend it: It’s an easy-to-use tool for ensuring your writing is polished before handing it off to an editor or beta reader.
(Online Resource) - Hemingway App
The Hemingway App highlights overly complex sentences, passive voice, and other readability issues, making your prose stronger and clearer.
Why I recommend it: Its clean interface and focus on simplicity help make revision feel less overwhelming.
(Online Resource) – ProWritingAid
This tool combines grammar checking, style suggestions, and in-depth reports on things like sentence variety, pacing, and overused words.
Why I recommend it: It’s a powerhouse for writers who want more than just grammar fixes—it gives you detailed insights into your overall writing style.
Style Guides
Essential references to help you maintain consistency and professionalism in your writing. These guides provide rules for grammar, punctuation, formatting, and tone, tailored to various industries and audiences.
(Online Resource) - The Chicago Manual of Style
The go-to style guide for writers and editors, particularly in publishing. It offers clear rules for formatting, citations, and grammar, as well as helpful advice for tricky style questions.
Why I recommend it: If you want your manuscript to look professional, this guide is an essential resource.
by Benjamin Dreyer
Written by a seasoned copy chief at Random House, this guide is witty, practical, and packed with advice for improving clarity and style.
Why I recommend it: Dreyer’s voice is engaging and full of humor, making this book an enjoyable read even as it teaches you how to refine your writing.
Revision Process
Resources to guide you through refining your drafts, from evaluating structure and pacing to deepening character development and strengthening themes. These tools and tips will help you take your work to the next level.
by Renni Browne & Dave King
This classic guide helps writers tackle the revision process, with advice on tightening prose, improving dialogue, and avoiding common pitfalls.
Why I recommend it: Written by experienced editors, this book walks you through the self-editing process step by step.
by Janice Hardy
Hardy provides a detailed guide to the revision process, breaking it down into manageable steps. She offers checklists, examples, and advice on how to approach your manuscript with fresh eyes.
Why I recommend it: It’s incredibly practical and geared specifically toward fiction writers.
by James Scott Bell
Bell focuses on how to take a rough draft and turn it into something polished and marketable. His advice covers everything from structural changes to line edits.
Why I recommend it: Bell’s clear, actionable tips make the daunting task of revision more approachable.
Online Resources for Revision
A curated list of websites, articles, and tools to support your revision journey. Whether you need advice on rewriting, cutting excess, or improving flow, these resources offer expert guidance to help you perfect your work.
(Online Resource) - The Editorial Freelancers Association
The EFA site offers helpful tips and resources for writers looking to understand editing standards and processes. Their blog and resource guides include advice on self-editing and hiring professionals.
Why I recommend it: It’s a trusted organization that provides solid, no-nonsense advice for writers of all levels.
(Online Resource) - The Creative Penn
Joanna Penn’s site includes blog posts, interviews with editors, and advice on self-editing. It’s a helpful starting point for understanding the different layers of revision.
Why I recommend it: It’s a great blend of professional insights and actionable advice.
(Online Resource) – Helping Writers Become Authors
Weiland’s blog includes articles on everything from structural edits to character arcs and scene rewrites. Her deep dives into revision are incredibly insightful.
Why I recommend it: Her blog is well-organized and packed with free resources that are easy to apply to your work.