Being in the flow of writing is wonderful. The words rush to our fingertips, barely able to keep up as our brain hurls instructions. That’s why the first draft must never be the last.

Book deals and writers’ reputations have been lost when an unedited manuscript has been sent out into the world.

Some writers hate editing. They liken it to tackling an untamed monster. (I happen to love it.)

Editing is not a luxury.

Practice self-editing.

Think of yourself as the hero overcoming the dragon to make the world a safer place for your prospective publisher, agent, and readers.