This is so personal, but I’ll share. Everyone ends up with a different kind of first draft. So this may make no sense to some! In my first draft, I start out with a couple of sentences, increase those sentences to a solid outline including dialogue. I then change the outline to actual narrative. My first draft is readable, but I wouldn’t want anyone but myself reading it!
On my first edit pass I start with this “first draft” and make these changes:
- Anchor the reader in the scene (who, what, where, when, why).
- Answer any outstanding questions I may have had while writing that first draft.
- Make sure the characters don’t watch and observe, rather have them in action and conflict.
- Use scenery and description to set the mood.
- Show – don’t tell!
- Layer in similes, metaphors and personification.
- Add layers – sound, smell, taste, feel, sight (include lighting).
- Use specific nouns and verbs to help paint a stronger picture in the readers mind.
Before I am done, I verify that I have about 1200 to 1500 words for the scene. Not too long. Not too short.
How about you – any writing tips for that first draft? More tips in a few weeks for finalizing that first draft!