Much like deconstructing the writing process, the editing process can also be broken down into its component parts.

Editing isn’t just one task—it’s four:

1. Substance
2. Style
3. Voice
4. Proofreading

Let’s look at each of the four edits more closely.

Substance Edit

The first edit is all about the big picture. Forget grammar, punctuation, and word choice for now. Focus on the substance of your writing.

Here are the key questions to answer during the substance edit:

• Why am I writing this? (i.e., What is my purpose?)
• Who am I writing to and why should they care?
• Am I saying everything that needs to be said?
• Where are the holes in my logic?
• Are my stories interesting?
• What can I cut out?

Style Edit

Writing style doesn’t mean using frilly language and clever turns of phrase. It’s simply how you deliver your content in a way that’s most effective. The goal of the style edit is to make your writing clear and interesting.