AuthorHi, I'm Ray Evans. I'm a certified copyeditor and proofreader. Archives
September 2023
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"Which or That: The Hilarious Pronoun Showdown You Never Knew You Needed! (Self-Edit Tips Pt 5)5/16/2023 The next grammar issue that pops up a lot is "which" and "that." These two little words are often used interchangeably, but there is actually a subtle difference in their usage: "that" is used to introduce a restrictive clause, while "which" is used for non-restrictive clauses. A restrictive clause is essential to the meaning of the sentence and without it the sentence would not make sense. It provides information that is necessary to identify the noun it modifies. The book, which I read last night, was amazing." In this sentence ☝️, the clause "which I read last night" is not essential to understanding which book is being referred to, but it provides additional information about when and how the book was read. On the other hand, a non-restrictive clause provides additional information that is not essential to the meaning of the sentence. In a non-restrictive clause, "which" should be used instead of "that." Examples:Now, let's look at an example of each type of clause:
Restrictive clause: "The car that I bought last week is already in the shop." In this sentence, the clause "that I bought last week" is essential to identifying which car is being referred to. Non-restrictive clause: "My dog, which is a golden retriever, loves to sleep in my bed." In this sentence, the clause "which is a golden retriever" provides additional information about the speaker's dog, but is not essential to understanding which dog is being referred to.
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Hello again, my wonderful word wizards! Today, I want to talk to you about semicolons. You know, those little misunderstood marks that sit somewhere between a comma and a period; the ultimate middle child of punctuation. It's just so versatile, isn't it? When I was young and immature, I turned my nose up at them but as I gotten older I’ve learned to love them and you should too! How Should Semicolons be used?It’s main uses are to:
(A clause is a group of words that contains both a subject and a predicate.) Examples of each:
And that’s all there is to it! The semicolon tells your readers that the two clauses are related to the same idea. It's like a period, but not as final. It's like a comma, but with more significance. Of course, it should only be used when absolutely necessary; otherwise, it can be pretty pretentious. (Author note: I’m something of a semicolon aficionado; my household accounts for 42.6% all semicolon usage on the East Coast. Therefore I do acknowledge that I may be a little bit biased.)
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So What's a Dangling, or Misplaced Modifier?A dangling modifier occurs when the subject of an introductory phrase is not stated BEFORE the introductory phrase. Modifiers describe, clarify, or give more detail about a subject. Dangling modifiers are a great way to confuse your readers and leave them wondering what the heck you were trying to say but not like in the good way when you metaphors or symbolism. And we want to avoid that because a confused readers will probably leave bad reviews on your book. The fix for this is to re-write the sentence to clearly specify WHO is completing the action (aka the subject of the sentence). Let's look at some, unintentionally hilarious, examples and how to fix them. Example 1Problem here is we don’t know what or who returned from the dead, the plants or my sister. Assuming this book isn't titled “Night of the Living Dead Gardners, we can fix this two ways: Example: After the plants returned from the dead, my sister took them outside. Example: My sister took the plants outside after they returned from the dead. Example: Numero Dos (that's number two)Similar to the last one, we don’t know WHO finished the dinner here.
If it was my waitress, I wouldn't be leaving a tip (but they'd get a bad Yelp review). Fix it like this: "After I finished my dinner, the waitress brought out the dessert tray." And there you have it! Self-editing your work for dangling modifiers will ensure that your writing is as crisp as a freshly-ironed shirt. And you readers will appreciate it too!
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What's the Passive Voice?Passive voice is a writing style where the subject of the sentence is receiving the action, rather than the subject actively performing the action. For example, "The ball was thrown by the boy" is passive voice, while "The boy threw the ball" is active voice. Using passive voice in writing can be confusing for readers and make your writing less engaging and interesting. Additionally, passive voice can make your writing sound dull and flat, making it more difficult for your readers to connect with your work. This can be especially damaging for authors who are writing books for profit, as readers may be less inclined to purchase a book that is poorly written. Therefore, it is generally a good idea to avoid using passive voice in your writing if you are looking to sell more of your books. Some Examples of Passive Voice1) The cookies were devoured by the hungry children. 2) The book was read by the student in one night. 3) The thief was apprehended by the police. *Yawn* I almost feel asleep while typing up those examples. They're flat and undynamic. Best way to avoid this? Hire a proofreader or editor to go through your work for you. Second-best way? Use the tips below when you self-edit your next story ⬇️ How to Avoid Passive Voice In Your WritingWhen writing fiction, it is important to avoid using the passive voice. *Confession time* In college I'd use the passive voice to pad my word count for essays. But don't tell anyone 🤫 The passive voice can make for dull, wordy writing that does not capture the readers' attention. Instead, you should focus on writing in the active voice, it is more direct and engaging for readers. You do this by making sure the subject of each sentence is performing the action and that the verbs used are strong and vivid. Additionally, you should make sure to avoid using long verb phrases and keep your sentences concise. Let's Fix the Examples from Earlier!1) The hungry children devoured the cookies 2) The student read the book in one night. 3) The police apprehended the thief. ⏫ My actual reaction after re-reading the sentences re-written in the active voice.
See how much better and dynamic they sound when re-written? Don't you want you want to write sentences that'll make you readers do the same? By following these tips, you can ensure their writing is engaging and lively.
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I understand that the English language is a confusing and tricky beast, so I wrote this article to help you navigate it with ease. Let me be your personal grammar sherpa, guiding you away from the treacherous pitfalls of misplaced apostrophes and dangling modifiers. Grammar mistakes are the best way to ensure your writing will never be taken seriously! So this series of self-editing tips is designed to help you polish your writing. Let's dive in! What is a Run-On Sentence?A run-on sentence is when two or more independent clauses, separated by either a comma or a semicolon, are combined without proper punctuation. An independent clause is a group of words that makes a complete sentence. It has a subject and a verb and can stand alone as its own sentence. It doesn't need any other words to make sense. Plus, if you want to sell lots of books, run-ons just won't cut it! Examples: 1. I love to eat ice cream it's my favorite dessert. 2. I wanted to go to the store but it was closed. 3. She was so tired she couldn't keep her eyes open. I bet a lot of you think that run-on sentences are just really long sentences that keep going and going like the Energizer bunny. Eh, not always. Run-on sentences are sentences that don't have ANY punctuation so length isn't really how we determine if a sentence is running on (like our examples above). How to Avoid1) Use punctuation, periods, commas, and semicolons as necessary to separate your clauses. 2) Use a period to separate the two clauses into separate sentences. 3) Avoid using conjunctions to join two closely related, but still separate, ideas. 4) Break up lengthy sentences into two or more concise, distinct sentences 5) Use a conjunctive adverb: A conjunctive adverb is a type of adverb that is used to connect two independent clauses in a sentence. It is used to provide additional information or to indicate a relationship between ideas. Common conjunctive adverbs include therefore, however, moreover, nevertheless, and furthermore. Now, Let's Fix The Examples from Earlier!1. I love to eat ice cream, it's my favorite dessert.
2. I wanted to go to the store, however, it was closed. 3. She was so tired; she couldn't keep her eyes open.
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Number One: Choose the Right PlatformsYou don't have to be on every social media site out there, that's just crazy. Instead, focus on the ones where your target audience hangs out the most. If you're writing young adult fiction, then Instagram and TikTok are your jam. If you're writing political thrillers, then Twitter is where you need to be. And if you're writing romance novels, then Facebook groups are the way to go. Numero Dos: Create Engaging ContentNow, this might seem obvious, but you'd be surprised how many writers just post boring-ass stuff on their social media. You don't have to be a graphic designer or a professional photographer to create content that people will love. Just make sure it's visually appealing, entertaining, and relevant to your audience. Share teasers of your upcoming book, behind-the-scenes looks at your writing process, or even funny memes or reels related to your genre. Number Three: Build a FollowingThis is where consistency comes into play. You can't just post once a month and expect to gain a massive following. You need to be consistent with your posting schedule, and engage with your audience on a regular basis. Respond to comments, ask questions, and make connections with other writers and readers in your genre. And for the love of all that is holy, don't buy followers: it's a waste of money and it makes you look like a fraud. Number 4: Interact With Your AudienceSocial media is called social for a reason. You need to be social with your audience if you want to build a loyal following. Don't just post and ghost 👻 Take the time to respond to comments, ask questions, and start conversations with your followers. You never know who might be interested in your work, or who might recommend you to their friends. Number 5: Be AuthenticThis is a big one. Don't try to be someone you're not on social media. People can smell fakeness from a mile away. Be yourself, share your personal stories, and let your audience get to know the real you. You'll be surprised at how many people will relate to your struggles and triumphs as a writer. Number 6: Measure Your Progress RegularlyYou can't improve what you don't measure. Keep track of your social media metrics, such as engagement rate, follower growth, and website traffic(at least on a weekly basis). This will give you insight into what's working and what's not, and help you adjust your social media strategy accordingly. Number 7: Have Fun 🥳Social media can be a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be.
Remember, you're a writer, and you're sharing your passion with the world. Have fun with it, experiment with new content, and don't be afraid to make mistakes. It's all part of the learning process. Alright, folks, there you have it. Seven essential tips for social media marketing success as an author. Now go out there, and start promoting your stories like a boss. And if all else fails, just remember the immortal words of William Shakespeare: "To post, or not to post, that is the question."
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As an independent fiction writer, it can be challenging to navigate the world of traditional publishing. Finding a literary agent who understands your vision and is passionate about your work is key to securing a publishing deal and advancing your career. But how do you go about finding the perfect literary agent for you? Here are some steps to consider: Step One: Determine your genre and marketBefore you start your search, it's important to know your genre and target market. Different literary agents specialize in different genres, so you want to make sure you're approaching the right agents. For example, if you write young adult fiction, you wouldn't want to approach an agent who only represents non-fiction. Step Two: Research Potential AgentsOnce you've determined your genre and target market, start researching literary agents who represent authors in your niche. You can use online resources like AgentQuery, QueryTracker, or Manuscript Wish List to find literary agents who may be interested in your work. Look at their client list, recent sales, and submission guidelines to get a better sense of their interests and priorities. Step Three: Check Agent Credentials and ReputationBefore approaching a literary agent, it's important to ensure they are reputable and have a good track record. Check the agent's credentials, such as membership in professional organizations, like the Association of Authors' Representatives or the Author's Guild. Also, research the agent's reputation online, including reviews from other authors who have worked with them. Step Four: Tailor Your Submission PackageWhen submitting to a literary agent, it's essential to tailor your submission package to their specific submission guidelines. This usually includes a query letter, synopsis, and the first few chapters of your manuscript. Make sure your submission is polished and professional, and that it accurately represents your voice and writing style. Step Five: Personalize Your ApproachWhen reaching out to a literary agent, it's important to personalize your approach. Don't just send out generic query letters to every agent on your list. Take the time to research the agent's interests and personalize your pitch to them. Mention why you think your work would be a good fit for their agency, and what specifically drew you to their representation. Step 6: Be Patient and PersistentFinding the perfect literary agent can take time, so be patient and persistent. It's not uncommon to receive multiple rejections before finding the right fit. Keep refining your submission package and continue to research new potential agents. Remember, finding the right literary agent is key to advancing your writing career. In conclusion, finding the perfect literary agent is a crucial step
for independent fiction writers looking to break into traditional publishing. By determining your genre and market, researching potential agents, checking their credentials and reputation, tailoring your submission package, personalizing your approach, and being patient and persistent, you can increase your chances of finding the right agent for you. With the right agent by your side, you'll be one step closer to achieving your publishing goals.
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How to find the editor of your dreams4/21/2023 Hey there, independent fiction authors! Looking for a book editor can be like searching for a needle in a haystack. But fear not! Here are some tips to help you find the right one and avoid getting lost in the weeds. Request a sample editMost editors offer a sample edit of about 1000 to 2000 words. Use the same sample across different editors for a fair comparison. Also, if you're considering an editing company, ask for profiles of suitable editors and choose one with the best experience in your genre. I'd go as far to say, you should only work with editors who do samples: how else are going to know if they're going to be a good fit for your story? Otherwise if like marrying someone without dating them, which has worked so well on "Love is Blind" on Netflix 🙄, you don't have any idea what you're getting into until you've made a large financial commitment. Gauge Professionalism from ResponsesIs your potential editor quick to respond to your questions? Do they stick to their deadlines? Do they understand your concerns and respond in a way that makes you excited to work with them? If they don't have basic professionalism, it's likely they won't be the right editor for you. Don't Underestimate Project ManagementEditing can be a long process, so, if you're going with a company, look one who treats your book like a project and assigns a dedicated project manager to it. This way, you won't have to communicate with a different professional every time you need a new service. Think of it like having your own agent at the service provider. Watch Out for Additional CostsEditing is an iterative process, and several rounds of editing may be required before your book is ready for printing. When you compare prices, consider the cost of additional rounds and whether they're discounted. For example, beyond the first past, I do two additional rounds or proofreading or editing at no additional cost. Ensure A Communication Channel With Your EditorMake sure your editor will be available to answer your questions and clarify any doubts you may have. Find out how easy or difficult it is to get in touch with them and how long it takes for them to respond. Using myself as an example, I'm available via, email, a secure client portal, and Voxer, which is a walkie talkie app (for the peeps that want to leave voice messages). Inquire About Their Complaints PolicyEven if you do your due diligence and select the best editor or service provider, there's still
a risk of being disappointed. Before you decide who to work with, ask about their feedback policy and how they typically resolve complaints. It's always better to be safe than sorry. So there you have it, folks! Follow these tips and you'll be well on your way to finding the right book editor for you. Good luck and happy writing!
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Do's and Don't of Social Media Marketing4/19/2023 Hellooooo, writers! Are you ready to sell your stories like hotcakes? Of course, you are! But how do you do that without coming across like a used car salesman? Social media marketing, baby! But hold on to your hats because there are some do's and don'ts you need to know. 1. Know Your Audience: You can't sell snow to a penguin, mainly because 1) penguins already have a lot of snow and they are animals and they don’t even have money to buy anything! And you can't sell your romance novel to someone who only reads thrillers. Get to know your audience and where they hang out on social media. Are they on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or TikTok? Figure it out, and that's where you need to be. 2. Respond to Comments and Messages: Social media is a two-way street. When people take the time to comment on your posts or send you a message, respond! It shows that you care about your readers and are willing to engage with them. Plus, it can lead to loyal fans who will help spread the word about your book. 3. Stay Consistent with Branding: Your social media accounts should be an extension of your brand. Use the same colors, fonts, and images across all your accounts. It helps with brand recognition and makes you look more professional. 4. Post Regularly: Consistency is key when it comes to social media marketing. Post regularly, but don't overdo it. A few times a week is enough to keep your audience engaged without overwhelming them. 1. Be Too Salesy: No one likes a pushy salesman, and that includes your potential readers. Don't constantly bombard them with "Buy my book!" posts. Instead, provide value and entertainment. Share behind-the-scenes peeks into your writing process, talk about your favorite books, or share funny memes. People are more likely to buy from someone they like and trust. 2. Engage in Twitter Wars: Negative reviews and comments are bound to happen. It's just part of being an author. But don't engage in Twitter wars or online arguments. It's unprofessional and will turn off potential readers. Instead, thank the person for their feedback and move on or don't respond to it all. 3. Spread Yourself Too Thin: Social media can be overwhelming, especially when you're trying to maintain a presence on multiple platforms. Don't spread yourself too thin. It's better to have a strong presence on one or two platforms than a weak presence on several. Figure out where your audience is and focus your efforts there. 4. Burn Out: Social media can be a time suck, and it's easy to get burnt out. Set boundaries and take breaks when you need to. Remember, social media is just one piece of the marketing puzzle. Don't neglect other marketing strategies like email marketing or book signings(more on these coming soon 😄). There you have it, folks! The do's and don'ts of social media marketing for authors. Follow these tips, and you'll be selling your stories like hotcakes in no time. Now go forth and conquer the social media world!
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Alrighty, buckle up, y'all! We're gonna talk about literary agents. Are they a must-have for authors? Or are they just a pain in the ass? Well, let's break it down with a pros and cons list. PROS: 1) Industry Knowledge: Okay, so let's start with the obvious one. Literary agents know the publishing industry inside and out. They know the right editors to pitch to, the trends in the market, and what makes a good book sell. If you're a newbie writer, having a literary agent can give you a major leg up. 2) Connections: Along with their industry knowledge, agents also have connections. They know editors, publishers, and other people in the biz who can help get your book in front of more eyes. And let's be real, as a self-published author, you're probably not going to be able to get those same connections on your own(or not as quickly). 3) Negotiation: Another benefit of having an agent is that they can handle negotiations for you. They can get you a better deal on your advance, your royalties, and any other contract details. Negotiating can be stressful as hell, so having someone who knows what they're doing can take a lot of pressure off. CONS: 1) Cost: Okay, so one major drawback of having an agent is that they take a cut of your earnings 😭. Typically, they'll take anywhere from 10-15% of your advance and royalties. And while that might not sound like a lot, it can add up quickly. So if you're self-publishing to make a full-time living, that extra percentage might not be worth it. 2) Finding the Right Agent: Another downside is that finding the right agent can be a major pain in the 🍑. You have to research them, query them, and hope they even respond. And if you do get an offer of representation, it might not be from someone you vibe with or who really understands your work. So finding the right agent can take a lot of time and effort. 3) Lack of Control: Okay, so this one might be a bit controversial, but hear me out. When you have an agent, you're giving up some control over your work. They might want you to make changes to your book that you don't agree with. Or they might want you to write in a different genre or style to make it more marketable. And while that can be helpful in some ways, it can also be frustrating if you feel like you're not in control of your own work. So there you have it, folks.
The pros and cons of having a literary agent as an author. Is it worth it? Well, that's up to you to decide. But hopefully, this list has given you some things to think about. And if you do decide to go the agent route, just remember to do your research and find someone who really gets your work. If you're looking for an agent tune in tomorrow because I've got a special gift for you 🎁 |