How can you get the best feedback on your writing from editors?
As a writer, you know how important it is to get constructive feedback on your work. But sometimes, it can be hard to communicate with editors and understand their suggestions. How can you make the most of the editing process and improve your writing skills? Here are some tips to help you get the best feedback on your writing from editors.
Before you submit your writing to an editor, you should have a clear idea of the purpose and audience of your piece. Is it an informative article, a persuasive essay, a creative story, or something else? Who are you writing for and what do you want them to learn or do? Knowing the answers to these questions will help you align your writing with the editor's expectations and goals. It will also make it easier for you to accept and apply their feedback, as you will understand the rationale behind it.
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Cuando vamos a compartir, hay que tener en cuenta el público, la empresa o la editorial. Y los temas que sean conforme a los principios de literatura, que manejan estos asociados. El talento en esta área debe tenerse muy claro, si es para niños o si es para adultos. En mi caso, he escrito para todo tipo de público. La sencillez es algo que es el sello que lleva la escritura y el audio visual, porque sin esto es un poco difícil, agradar al mundo que recibe cada día, la sabiduría que esperan recibir.
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Let the editors know you are brave. What? Yes. Editors know how sensitive writers can be. If you allow them to be ruthless, they will give you the best feedback. I remember when I first started. The editor kept sending my work back. Luckily for me, they saw potential. Else they would have rejected me outright. But you have to allow yourself to deal with ruthless feedback. That's the only way to become your best as a writer.
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Getting the best feedback from editors on your writing can be a valuable learning experience and help you improve your work. Here are some tips to help you receive constructive feedback from editors: 1. Choose the right editor: Look for editors who specialize in your genre or field of writing. Research their background, experience, and the types of work they have edited to find someone who aligns with your goals. 2. Be clear about your expectations: Clearly communicate your expectations to the editor before they start reviewing your work. 3. Be open to criticism: feedback is meant to help you grow as a writer. Approach the process with an open mind and be willing to accept constructive criticism.
When you send your writing to an editor, don't just ask for general comments or suggestions. Be more specific and ask for feedback on specific aspects of your writing, such as the structure, the tone, the clarity, the grammar, or the style. This will help the editor focus on the areas that you want to improve and give you more concrete and actionable advice. It will also show the editor that you are serious about your writing and that you value their expertise and input.
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I'd say allow the editors to tell you what they see. In some situations, I have paid editors and given them free reign. You want their honest feedback not feedback that makes you feel good. A good editor can help you connect with your audience if you let them. But it all comes down to trusting the editor's judgement. And, you have to be willing to shed a few tears, if that's what it takes!
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As a writer, you probably already have an idea where your work feels the weakest to you, so asking an editor/reviewer about that aspect will draw their eyes to it and net you explicit feedback about your concerns. A general review is fine in some circumstances, but if you have a concern, don't make it a guessing game and hope the reviewer gives you something to work with. Asking for specifics focuses their attention and may offer unexpected insights.
One of the most important skills for a writer is to listen and learn from feedback. Don't take it personally or defensively. Remember that the editor is trying to help you improve your writing and make it more effective and engaging for your audience. Try to understand the editor's perspective and reasoning, and ask questions if you are not sure about something. Don't argue or dismiss their feedback, even if you disagree with it. Instead, try to find a compromise or a solution that works for both of you. And most importantly, thank them for their time and effort.
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I try not to get too attached to my writing. Seasoned writers and journalists have probably heard the expression "Kill your darlings." In other words, don't be afraid to take out portions that are too clever or poetic for their own good. Often those parts end up being distractions from the larger message. I've had times when I've had a knee-jerk negative reaction to an editor's feedback but when I slept on it, I ended up coming around to their wisdom. You don't need to accept every edit verbatim, but it's often a signal that that a specific portion isn't working.
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Sometimes, a simple tweak to a story can lead to a stunning transformation. An adept editor can add a Midas touch, turning even the most straightforward narratives into something special. It is crucial, therefore, to embrace feedback with an open mind. Remember, constructive criticism is to improve your work. Should you need clarity on specific aspects of your writing, do not hesitate to ask targeted questions. Engaging with different editors can also be enlightening, as each may offer unique insights. When you receive their feedback, take the time to reflect and revise your draft. You'll be surprised at how even minor adjustments can significantly enhance the overall quality of your work.
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I would say before you submit your draft do go through it once or twice to ensure minimum errors and proper seamless flow. Listen to the editor's viewpoint and also present your own. This need not necessarily be an argumentative process. There is a lot you can learn from an experienced editor, particularly one who has subject knowledge in the field. They can bring new perspectives to your article and improve its readability and fit to the target audience.
Once you receive the feedback from the editor, don't just file it away and forget about it. Apply it to your writing and revise it accordingly. Make sure you address all the issues and suggestions that the editor raised, and check your writing for consistency, coherence, and accuracy. Don't be afraid to make changes or rewrite parts of your writing if necessary. The editing process is an opportunity to polish and refine your writing, not to limit or restrict it.
Getting feedback from one editor is helpful, but getting feedback from multiple editors is even better. Different editors may have different opinions, perspectives, and preferences, and they may notice things that others missed. Seeking more feedback from different editors will help you diversify and improve your writing skills, as well as expose you to different styles and standards of writing. You can also compare and contrast the feedback from different editors and see what works best for you and your writing.
The best way to get better at writing is to keep practicing. The more you write, the more feedback you will get, and the more you will learn and grow as a writer. Don't be discouraged by negative or critical feedback. Instead, use it as a motivation and a challenge to improve your writing. Don't be complacent by positive or flattering feedback. Instead, use it as a confirmation and a reward for your writing. And don't be afraid to experiment and try new things. Instead, use it as a way to express and explore your writing.
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Editors give you a fresh pair of eyes to look over your content. You don't have to agree with what they say. Still, at the very least consider what they say to you. You may discover something you have missed. Writing is a skill that you'll always keep improving. And working with editors is one of the secrets to becoming better really fast. If you can, find a good editor for you work!
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I call my editor my florists. Every flower presented is organized into a beautiful bouquet. Like a florist she rearranges what I present to her. She is my first reader, and she understands what I am trying to communicate and where I am coming from. She edits my manuscript for a global audience, adding perspectives I would not have considered. But she allows me to accept or reject her suggestions. She is careful to maintain my author's voice. Finding an editor who work with you than for you is a great blessing.
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