An Author’s Journey
If you read this post on ordering a proof copy, you’ll know I recently got my copy of The Hidden Haven. The question is: What do I do with my proof copy? I’m going to give you a rundown of what I like to do with my proof copies:
Read it multiple times
I like to read my proof copy several times. Once as a reader, and then another time from the author’s perspective. When I read it from a reader’s perspective, I force myself not to take any notes. To simply enjoy the story. Laugh at the funny things characters say, marvel at the world in which the story takes place, and grip the pages as the climax heightens. I read it as a reader, and I don’t want to give myself any critiques yet. I like to enjoy the story for what it is.
Take notes
After I’ve read it from a reader’s perspective, I then go to reader it as the author. This time, I take notes. Sometimes I write in the margins of the page, and edit the grammar directly onto the page. For bigger things, like plot problems, I write those down in a notebook and create a list of things I need to edit in the manuscript.
Lend it to people
Usually, when I get physical copies of my book, I get two. One for me to take notes in and another to lend to family members and friends. Having other people read your book is so helpful! Readers notice things that I as the writer completely missed or didn’t think all the way through. I like to take note of the feedback I get from others. Though taking feedback can be hard, it is important to learn from your readers. Being a writer has taught me how to properly handle feedback and critique from others.
Make changes
Having a physical copy is also useful to help me see what I do and don’t like about the book. I can then make changes according to what I think is best.
Once I’ve done my two read-throughs, I go through the book again and compare it page by page on my manuscript, editing things like grammar and formatting. Then I go through my “to-do” list and begin fixing and completing those. This takes a little more time if I have to edit parts of the story, but it is worth it to have a polished manuscript.
Conclusion
So there you go! Now you know what I like to do with my proof copies. 🙂 My method may be different than other writers, and that’s okay! This is what works best for me. If you have any questions about proof copies, feel free to reach out below in the comments!
See you on the next page,
-E. Q.