One of the best parts of editing for me is making my characters' reasons for doing things even clearer. When I look over a draft, I always try to show what makes my characters tick. Here are some easy tricks that have worked really well in my own writing.
First, I focus on how my characters talk. Dialogue can really show their motivations. I ask myself:
For example, instead of making a character say exactly what they want, I might show it through the tension in their conversation.
Next, timing is super important. I look at how events happen and how they connect to the character's journey. By changing the timing, I can make feelings stronger or create suspense.
Adding a character's inner thoughts can make a big difference. I try to include what a character is thinking during important scenes. This helps readers understand exactly what a character wants and why.
Finally, it’s really important to keep things consistent. I make sure a character's motivations change and grow throughout the story. If a character’s main goal shifts, it should feel natural.
In short, editing isn’t only about fixing words; it’s about highlighting what drives my characters. By adjusting dialogue, timing, inner thoughts, and consistency, I help my characters feel more real. This way, their motivations connect better with readers.
One of the best parts of editing for me is making my characters' reasons for doing things even clearer. When I look over a draft, I always try to show what makes my characters tick. Here are some easy tricks that have worked really well in my own writing.
First, I focus on how my characters talk. Dialogue can really show their motivations. I ask myself:
For example, instead of making a character say exactly what they want, I might show it through the tension in their conversation.
Next, timing is super important. I look at how events happen and how they connect to the character's journey. By changing the timing, I can make feelings stronger or create suspense.
Adding a character's inner thoughts can make a big difference. I try to include what a character is thinking during important scenes. This helps readers understand exactly what a character wants and why.
Finally, it’s really important to keep things consistent. I make sure a character's motivations change and grow throughout the story. If a character’s main goal shifts, it should feel natural.
In short, editing isn’t only about fixing words; it’s about highlighting what drives my characters. By adjusting dialogue, timing, inner thoughts, and consistency, I help my characters feel more real. This way, their motivations connect better with readers.