Podcast #5 Shownotes!

Greetings intrepid listener. 

So, you’ve finished writing and wonder what to do next. Well, here you go. I will lead you though my editing process up to the point you shove it out to your editor (and yes, you need one).

Now, truth in advertising, this isn’t an all exhaustive list and I am sure I am missing things, but the advice is still sound.

Best free writing programs? I am going to direct you to go to a Tech Republic article at https://www.techrepublic.com/article/5-free-alternatives-to-microsoft-word/.

• I read it completely on the screen. I am looking for large plot holes in this step. Things that I started writing and forgot to continue. Stuff like that.
• Print the manuscript off and reading it again, in paper form. Make notes in the margins, correct things, etc. Still looking for plot holes, but also things which are obviously wrong.
  • Windows 10 came with a thing called ‘Read Aloud’. I think you can download it from their app store too. It is a great tool. 
• Let someone else read it. What you are looking for is someone who is going to read through it and give you their honest opinion.
• Share it with some trusted beta readers. A trusted group of super friends who would be willing to read through your manuscript for you. Avoid people who say things like, “Oh, I liked it.” And that is it.
  • Provide a word document with specific questions you want them to answer. I like to use from Writing Cooperative. You can find them on the internet, posted for people to steal and use. https://writingcooperative.com/15-questions-to-send-beta-first-readers-please-steal-3ff9fa198b5
• It is time to shove it into the realm of editors. In reality you can find editors that specialize in just about anything at all. The most common are copy editors who will just handle the grammar and anything glaring. However, consider the use of a developmental editor or a proofreader. The latter will shine a spotlight on your weak spots and a proofreader will assess it for overall content and clarity. I use http://editing.xterraweb.com/, but there are tons of great editors out there in the world.

It is usually during this time that I start working the graphics angle. There are millions of different graphics artists out there. My word of caution, and one that another author gave me when I was starting out, was to make sure they can provide examples of their work. My own preference has always been to use Aspire Book Covers. https://aspirebookcovers.com/. But that is just my preference. I have used major graphics companies and I have used some guy working out of his apartment in South Africa. He actually did a really nice job for me. Again, ask for samples of their work.

In the next show I will talk about that, ISBN’s, making an audio version. And other things. Make sure you join me and remember to subscribe to this podcast!

• My website: www.bryannowak.com
• My Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/Bryanthewriter
• My Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Bryan-Nowak/e/B018GX2I20

By for now!

-Bryan the Writer

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