Your Next Draft

Why a Page One Rewrite Is Actually Worth Celebrating


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It sounds scary, but it’s actually MAJOR editing progress.

What if the best way to make progress on your novel . . .

. . . is to go back to the beginning?

Sometimes, the most effective editing strategy is a page one rewrite.

Yes, that means exactly what it sounds like. You open a blank document and begin writing an entirely fresh manuscript.

It might feel like you’re moving backwards. But you’re not. And in this episode, I’m going to prove it to you.

You’ll learn:

  • Why I CELEBRATE when a writer starts a page one rewrite (and why you should too!)
  • Why going back to the beginning is an unavoidable part of the editing process
  • 2 tips to help you make the most of a page one rewrite
  • Why your previous draft isn’t wasted (even if you’re starting fresh with a blank page!)
  • And more!

If a page one rewrite is your best next step, consider this episode your pep talk.

You’ve got this. And it’s going to be so, so worth it.

Links mentioned in the episode:

  • Ep. 61: What It REALLY Means to Make Progress Editing Your Novel

Send me a Text Message!

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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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