The 10-step revision pass

1. Test the opening

Does the first paragraph create pressure, curiosity, or tonal authority? If not, rewrite it.

2. Find the real story engine

What is changing? What is at risk? If you cannot answer quickly, the story may still be static.

3. Check scene pressure

Each scene should shift something: information, tension, status, or emotional temperature.

4. Cut repeated information

Most drafts say the same thing twice. Keep the sharper version.

5. Protect the voice

Revision should improve clarity without sanding down the story’s tonal identity.

6. Tighten dialogue

Cut exposition disguised as speech. Keep what creates friction or reveals character.

7. Remove decorative filler

If a sentence is pretty but inert, it is probably slowing the piece down.

8. Test the ending

Does the ending land, or does it explain itself? Strong endings do not apologise for the story.

9. Read aloud

Awkward rhythm, false notes, and over-explained passages reveal themselves immediately when heard.

10. Decide whether you need outside diagnosis

If you are circling the same draft decisions without confidence, professional editorial feedback is often the fastest way forward.

What this checklist cannot do

A checklist helps with execution. It does not replace editorial judgement. If the piece has a strong premise but weak delivery, you may need targeted notes rather than more solo tinkering.