Self-Editing Your Manuscript

If you're looking to gain self-editing skills and wrangle your NaNoWriMo draft into something more refined, this is a good place to start. Practice making your climax land effectively by working backward — by planting seeds of tension throughout your manuscript starting in the first chapter. You'll learn about general storytelling concepts (such as story structure and tension), analyze sample works, brainstorm with classmates with regard to your own story, and apply strategies you learn directly to your manuscript.

Before the class, you'll be asked to fill out and submit (by Dec. 1) a brief survey describing your previous writing experience, the state of your manuscript draft, and your desired accommodations for the class. The survey will include a spot for a 250-word sample of your manuscript. These materials will be viewed by the instructor before the class begins to better serving your learning needs.

Details

• You must have a manuscript in progress.
• Experience level: Any experience level is welcome. This course is directed especially toward new writers who word-dumped for NaNoWriMo and want to begin revising.
• You'll be actively revising your manuscript during class, so bring your preferred drafting medium (such as a laptop).
• You may be invited to write down thoughts before sharing them aloud, so bring a notebook and pen.
• We'll take several short breaks and a 12:30 to 1 PM lunch break. Bring snacks and a lunch. There is a refrigerator and microwave on the lower level.

Class Policies

Instructors or Guides