The first draft is you telling the story to yourself. It’s messy, full of plot holes, and likely twice as long as it needs to be—and that’s okay. In 2025, the standard for indie publishing is higher than ever. Here is how to navigate the transition from a “vomit draft” to a polished novel.
- Step 1: The Cooling-Off Period. Do not start editing immediately. Take at least two weeks away from the manuscript to gain “fresh eyes” and clear your mental palette.
- Step 2: The Developmental Pass. Read your entire draft without fixing typos. Instead, look for big-picture issues: Do the character arcs feel earned? Is there a “sagging middle”? Identify scenes that don’t move the plot forward and be prepared to cut them.
- Step 3: The RGR Method (Read, Gut-check, Rewrite). Focus on tone and structure. Ensure each paragraph addresses one main idea and uses subheadings if it’s non-fiction.
- Step 4: Strategic Beta Reading. Before hiring a pro, get feedback from readers who understand your genre. Ask them to focus on pacing and likability rather than grammar.
- Step 5: Professional Polish. An indie author’s greatest investment is a professional editor. Whether it’s a developmental edit or a final line edit, having an objective expert is what separates hobbyists from career authors.
What is your biggest struggle when finishing a first draft? Let’s chat in the comments!