Macro vs. Micro

Editing your novel, after months and years of a painful pregnancy can be a monumental task.

It helps to do some micro editing along the way and at the completion of a draft to do a macro edit followed by one last micro edit.

The differences between the two edits are:

Micro editing; entails correcting the text for appropriate language including grammar, syntax, spelling, punctuation, clarity of expression, consistency (both language and visual consistency), and correct citations.

Macro editing; in addition to the above, ensures that the structure, content, language and style of the document are appropriate to its intended function and readership.

This is where the value of critique groups skyrockets. For the most part, word processing programs and inexpensive editors can help create well spelt, grammatically correct papers. But meeting regularly with other writers help decipher whether your character is consistent or weak. Or whether your story rambles on and on without actually going anywhere.

Or perhaps sometimes, they’ll just pat you on the back as you sob—when can’t retype one more word.

If you’re having difficulty finding a critique partner(s), join Writers of Kern. We have online critique groups that meet “in person” via Google Hangouts.

We’re here. Ready and willing to help,

Clarissa