Self-Editing Checklist for Writers

You've finished your first draft. Congratulations! Now comes the real work: revision. This checklist guides you through multiple editing passes, from big-picture structure to final polish.

Before You Begin

Let your draft rest. Distance gives you perspective. Whether it's a week, a month, or just a few days—time away helps you see your work with fresh eyes.

When you return, read the entire manuscript in one sitting if possible. Don't edit yet—just read. Note your reactions. Where did you get bored? Where were you confused? These instincts guide your revision.

Pass 1: Structure and Story

Start with the big picture. No point polishing sentences in scenes that might be cut.

• Does the opening hook the reader immediately?
• Is the central conflict clear within the first few chapters?
• Does each scene advance plot, character, or both?
• Are there scenes that could be cut without losing anything?
• Does the middle maintain momentum or sag?
• Is the climax emotionally satisfying?
• Does the ending resolve the central conflict?
• Are subplots resolved or intentionally left open?

Pass 2: Character

Focus on each major character individually.

• Does the protagonist have a clear want and need?
• Does the protagonist change by the end?
• Is the antagonist's motivation understandable?
• Does each character have a distinct voice?
• Are character reactions consistent and believable?
• Can any characters be combined or cut?
• Do secondary characters serve a purpose?
• Is backstory revealed naturally or dumped?

Pass 3: Scene-Level

Examine each scene as a unit.

• Does each scene have a clear purpose?
• Does each scene have conflict or tension?
• Is the point-of-view consistent within scenes?
• Do scenes begin as late as possible and end early?
• Are scene transitions smooth?
• Is there variety in scene length and pacing?
• Are quiet scenes balanced with action?
• Does setting enhance mood and conflict?

Pass 4: Dialogue

Read all dialogue aloud.

• Does dialogue sound natural when spoken?
• Do characters speak differently from each other?
• Is there subtext beneath what's said?
• Are dialogue tags simple (said, asked)?
• Is there too much small talk?
• Do characters avoid "on the nose" dialogue?
• Is exposition woven naturally into conversation?
• Do arguments escalate realistically?

Pass 5: Prose and Style

Now we get to the line level.

• Are sentences varied in length and structure?
• Have you cut unnecessary adverbs?
• Are verbs active and specific?
• Is passive voice used sparingly and intentionally?
• Have you eliminated filler words (just, really, very)?
• Is there too much telling instead of showing?
• Are descriptions vivid and sensory?
• Have you cut redundant phrases?

Pass 6: Common Problems

Search for these specific issues:

• Filter words: "She saw," "He felt," "They heard"
• Overused character tics and gestures
• Starting too many sentences with "I" or character names
• Clichés and stock phrases
• Overuse of exclamation points
• Echo words (same word repeated nearby)
• Pet words you overuse
• Inconsistent spelling of names or places

Pass 7: Final Polish

The last pass catches errors.

• Run spell-check (but don't trust it completely)
• Check grammar and punctuation
• Verify formatting is consistent
• Check timeline consistency
• Verify character eye color, ages, etc.
• Read aloud one final time
• Print and read on paper (catches different errors)
• Read backwards by paragraph (forces focus on each)

When to Stop Editing

Perfectionism can trap you in endless revision. You're ready to share when:

• Changes are getting smaller, not larger
• You're changing things back to previous versions
• You've addressed feedback from beta readers
• The story does what you intended it to do

Related Resources

• Write Your First Draft →
• Version Control for Writers →
• Get Beta Reader Feedback →