Write it Right: The Ground Rules for Self-Editing Like the Pros

Dawn Josephson and Lauren Hidden
Cameo Publications (2005)
IISBN 0974496626
Reviewed by Kim Peterson for Reader Views (5/06)

Numerous jobs require strong writing skills, yet studies reveal that many members of the American workforce lack the writing essentials. Basics like proper spelling, grammar and punctuation come to mind when people discuss writing. However, well-chosen words, clear-cut thinking and strong structure also compose important aspects of written communication. Often, those who write fail to develop the important self-editing skills needed to perfect their work. Whether writing comprises one aspect of a person’s job or is the main component, taking time to polish the writing is essential.

“Write It Right” serves as a handy self-improvement tool for writers. The authors begin by helping self-editors identify their weak spots by evaluating problem areas. The next phase of the book assists writers with switching gears from writing to editing. Writers need to relinquish ownership of their work and don the editor’s hat, refining the material. Like other books on self-editing, this handy guide reminds self-editors to compile an editing checklist, build in time for the editing phase, and edit on paper, not the screen—essential steps to prepare the editor.

Section three walks self-editors through the editing process and dispels any illusions that one time through the document will catch everything. The fourth portion teaches how to use teamwork for better success at editing. The fifth section encourages continued refinement of, and building confidence in, the newly-acquired editing skills.

The book’s real-life samples identify organization and transition problems, passive sentences, spelling errors and more. The Frequently Asked Questions segments anticipate readers’ questions and provide valuable answers. The appendices also supply important information on editing under pressure, avoiding self-sabotage, knowing grammar rules and usage, and using handy forms and checklists to simplify the process.

As a professor of writing, I found this handy guide to be thorough in covering the basics. I believe it would assist workers whose job description includes writing, college writing majors early in their training, other college students who want an edge when joining the workforce, and high school students who desire stronger writing and editing skills when they leave for college. For those who don’t want to immerse themselves in the Chicago Manual of Style or other tools used by professional editors, applying the “Write It Right” ground rules will produce definite benefits.

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