Your Next Draft

4 Ways to Use a Scene List, Your Indispensable Editing Tool


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Your scene list is your map to all your revisions. Here’s how to make the most of it.

If you’re doing a developmental edit on your manuscript, you need a scene list. Seriously—I can’t think of a single book I’ve edited without one.

Why? What makes a scene list so essential?

That’s what I’m covering in this episode of Your Next Draft.

You’ll learn:

  • 4 ways that a scene list will make your editing process clearer, easier, and less overwhelming
  • How to use a scene list to plan your edits BEFORE you change a single word in your novel
  • The magic of condensing an 80,000-word manuscript into just a few pages
  • And more!

Plus, I’m sharing the story of my first-ever professional editing gig—and what happened when I didn’t make a scene list. (This lesson has stuck with me ever since!)

I know it’s tricky to condense an entire novel into just a few words. But a scene list is worth the effort it takes to create. Take a listen, and I’ll show you why.

Links mentioned in the episode:

  • Ep. 8: What Is a Scene? The Ultimate Guide to Write and Edit Amazing Scenes

Send me a Text Message!

Want my support in your revision?

In Story Clarity, we’ll work one-on-one to sharpen your story’s structure and craft a revision plan that works. If you’re ready for thoughtful, personalized feedback from an editor who gets what you’re trying to do, I’d love to hear what you’re working on.

Get started by telling me about your story here.

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Your Next DraftBy Alice Sudlow

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