So we've discussed the times at which to reread your work and their benefits, but what should you actually be looking for when you reread? Another piece of advice is to reread as you go, reread after you've finished writing, but then take a break before your final read. This gives you time to distance yourself from your own ideas and take a fresh perspective on your story as a whole.
What to look out for:
1. Any plot holes or things left unexplained. Your reader will pick up on this much more easily than you, so it's great if you can give your story to someone else. Another way to fix this is to write down your plot as a flow chart. How do things relate to each other? Do they all link together? Does the order make sense?
2. Could your writing be pacier? This was something I got picked up on a lot when I started writing. When there is action going on, let it happen without interruption. You don't need to waste words telling us how fast your main character is breathing or what they're thinking; there is always time for reflection afterwards.
3. Spelling and grammar. This is obviously the main thing to look out for in your writing, especially if you are submitting your work to a competition or magazine rather than a publisher. If your spelling, punctuation and grammar are not perfect, a lot of competitions will skip right over your entry: this is your responsibility, not theirs!
4. Repetitive words or phrases. You don't necessarily notice these as you write, but when you reread your work they will be painfully obvious. Synonyms are your friends: even Microsoft Word has a synonym feature! Make sure not to use the same word too often or too close together.
5. The ending. Is it the right ending for the story? Does it leave you feeling how you intended (i.e. shocked, happy, sad, reminiscent, etc.)? Does it end on the perfect line? This may take a lot of redrafting, but every time you read it ask yourself these questions.
Of course, these are only a few main things to look out for, but it should be obvious when you read your work if anything isn't quite right. Sending it to someone else to read is also a great idea for a fresh pair of eyes and a new take on your story.
Happy writing!
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