As an indie author, you’ve likely been through the rollercoaster of writing your manuscript. There are moments of inspiration and creativity, followed by hours spent on editing, rewriting, and perfecting each sentence. But before you dive headfirst into the next stage of the process—editing—there’s one crucial question you need to ask yourself:
Is your book truly finished?
It’s an essential question that every writer, whether they’re indie or traditionally published, needs to answer honestly. But what if you’re not sure? What if your manuscript still feels incomplete or rough around the edges?
Don’t panic—you’re not alone, and this feeling is part of the process. The truth is, many authors face this uncertainty. Even after months (or years) of work, the question of whether the book is truly “finished” can feel daunting. The good news is, if you’re not sure, there’s a solution: this is the perfect time to reach out for support from a book coach or a writing group.
How to Tell if Your Book Is Finished
Before we explore support options, let’s look at how you can tell if your manuscript is truly ready for editing:
- You’ve completed the first draft (or multiple drafts).
While it may still need polishing, your manuscript should have a beginning, middle, and end. The plot should be clear, and the characters should have depth. - You’ve read through it several times.
Ideally, you should have read your manuscript from start to finish a few times, making sure the story flows logically. It’s normal for some areas to still feel “off,” but if you’re unsure where to go next, it may be time to step back and seek feedback. - You’re experiencing writer’s fatigue.
Sometimes, we’ve spent so much time on a project that we can no longer see it with fresh eyes. If you’re feeling burnt out or stuck, it might indicate you’ve done all you can on your own and need outside perspective.
Why You Shouldn’t Edit Just Yet
Editing is an essential part of the writing process, but diving into it too soon can be counterproductive. If your manuscript still feels incomplete, there’s a risk that you’ll waste time fine-tuning sections that might ultimately need to be rewritten. The real value of editing comes once your story is solid and your vision is clear.
But what if your manuscript still needs work before it's truly "finished"?
Seeking Support: The Power of a Book Coach or Writing Group
If you’re unsure whether your book is ready for editing, this is the ideal time to turn to outside help. Book coaches and writing groups can offer invaluable support, guidance, and constructive feedback to help you cross the finish line before diving into the editing process.
Book Coaches:
A book coach can help you clarify your vision for the book, structure your story, and provide one-on-one support as you refine your manuscript. They bring expert knowledge of storytelling, pacing, and character development, and can help you address any weaknesses in your plot or writing style before you move on to editing. With a coach, you’ll have the benefit of personalized guidance tailored to your specific needs as a writer.
Writing Groups:
Joining a writing group, whether in person or online, provides the chance to get feedback from other authors who are also navigating the writing process. These groups can offer support in many forms, from critique partners who provide detailed feedback on your manuscript to general encouragement and advice on overcoming writer’s block. Writing groups can also offer the camaraderie of shared experiences, which can keep you motivated to finish your book.
How Seeking Support Helps You Cross the Finish Line
When you seek feedback or support from a coach or writing group, it helps you:
- Gain clarity: Sometimes it’s hard to see your own work clearly. A coach or fellow writers can point out areas that need more development or places where the story might feel disjointed. This feedback allows you to make necessary changes before diving into editing.
- Build confidence: Self-doubt can often creep in, especially for indie authors. Having someone to talk through your work with can give you the confidence boost you need to move forward and know that your story is ready to take its next steps.
- Refine your story: Book coaches and writing groups can offer suggestions on plot, character arcs, pacing, and more—helping you refine and strengthen your narrative, making it more compelling and ready for the editing phase.
If your manuscript still feels unfinished, don’t worry—you don’t have to do it alone. Seeking support from a book coach or a writing group is a powerful way to ensure your story is in its best possible shape before tackling the editing process. With the right help, you’ll gain clarity, confidence, and the direction you need to bring your book to completion.
Remember, every writer goes through moments of doubt, but that’s what makes the journey so rewarding. Keep pushing forward, and with the right support, you’ll be one step closer to seeing your book through to publication.
Happy writing!
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