Separating the Editor from the Writer

Writer: creator of the story and designer of the plot and characters
Editor: number one critique and the voice of reason

Ah, the editor. That wonderful voice that says you can't do this, do this instead. As writers, we sometimes create stories that are less than...amazing because of a lack of editing. Which is fine, really. In order to make good fiction, you've got to take some risks. But you also need someone (whether that person is you or someone else) to tell you when it's time to be sensible.
Today, in the light of this matter, we are going to talk about how to separate the creative writer and the sensible editor in all of us.
In my mind, there is no better way to do this than give a couple of lists. One for the drafting stage, one for the editing stage. During drafting stage are rules for writing without letting the editor barge in. During editing stage are rules for editing.
Well, here we go:

Stay Back Editors!: Rules for Drafting
1. Do NOT edit as you go. Write straight through without a backward glance at what you've already written. No fixing grammar, plot, characters, anything until the draft is complete. This ensures that you don't get lost in your editing before the story is done.
2. Repeat after me: It's not perfect and that's okay. Who ever heard of a perfect draft? Heck, who ever heard of a perfect book? Writing is not about perfection, it's about truth. And to find that truth you are going to have to experiment a little.
3. Be cautious about sharing your work at this stage. Now, I am not saying you can't show anyone and it must be locked down tight. Trust me, I know the troubles of a writer's secrets. What I am saying is that you should be careful who you show. Some may critique the writing you are just beginning to have confidence in it. Even if they are trying to help, sometimes you need to get through the draft before any kind of editing (self or otherwise) is done.

Listen to Me: Rules for Editing
1. Look at your writing with a critical eye. It can be helpful to look at your writing as the reader would. If you were reading this book, would you be confused? Would you find it enjoyable? These are crucial questions at this stage.
2. Split the editing process up. This is a long, often times, strenuous stage. It's best to do several revisions, with several different kinds of editing (such as plot, characters, setting, voice, grammar, etc.).
3. Don't get overwhelmed. Easier said than done, I know. Sometimes, while editing, it may seem that you have far too much work to do. Don't get discouraged! Writing is a process and an adventure. Often times, opinion overrides fact. Be critical but not overly so. You have something to bring to the world of books, don't you forget that!

Alright! So those are my two pieces on writing and editing. Tune back in tomorrow for my plan from prewriting to publishing in Ideas to Print: My Plan on the Road from Prewriting to Publication.

Thanks guys! Leave a comment below!