If you find writing a non-fiction manuscript challenging, editing it can uncover even more challenges on this journey. Editing a non-fiction manuscript is tough due to the need for accuracy, clear presentation of complex information, and consistent formatting.
Non-fiction editors are burdened with balancing clarity with every detail and engaging the reader at every step of the way. This can get overwhelming more often than you think.
While editing a non-fiction manuscript can feel challenging, it is not an impossible endeavor. Here are some of the best tips to help you improve your non-fiction manuscript.
Make a Connection
If you think that writing non-fiction is all about conveying information, you are mistaken. In fact, focusing solely on the informational aspect of a non-fiction book may be one of the biggest reasons for the failure in this genre.
Writing a non-fiction book that wins over the hearts of your audience relies on creating a connection with the readers first and then informing them. If you are trying to provide information at the expense of personal connection with the readers, you may be missing out on a lot.
You can convey your message best when you successfully engage your readers by telling them a story first and relaying information later.
Avoid Passive Voice
One of the worst things you can assume is that the voice you use to write your fiction book does not make a major difference in the outcome. Expert nonfiction editors always focus on minimizing the use of passive voice in a nonfiction manuscript.
It is evident that authors who use active voice in their work are perceived to be more honest, as compared to those who use passive voice. Active voice reduces vulnerability in your writing and lets you connect with your readers easily.
Reconsider the Length
Readability is one of the most important things for an author. They know that all their hard work and efforts can go to waste if they fail to engage the readers. While there are several ways to improve the readability of your manuscript, the length of your sentences is the most important factor to consider.
The ability to connect with an audience relies on the clarity of your content. You can achieve it by readjusting the sizes of your sentences and paragraphs. Of course, the ideal length of your sentences can vary depending on your audience and their preferences.
You must be focused on creating clear and digestible content by keeping your sentences and paragraphs at a meaningful yet easily understandable length.
Use Simple Language
A common mistake made by beginner non-fiction writers is the use of verbose and complex sentence structures. They might think that using complex language makes them sound more informative, but it can actually have the opposite effect.
If you have followed the same approach in your manuscript, the editing stage is your opportunity to make the necessary changes, such as simplifying the language. Instead of coming off as pretentious to your readers, try to be conversational and establish an unforgettable connection with them.
Cut Down on Adjectives
Adjectives are a great part of speech that help authors add value to their content. They can help you create imagery for the readers, convey emotions, add depth, and do so much more. However, it does not mean that the excessive use of adjectives will not ruin the readability of your book.
If the meaning of your sentence changes when you remove the adjective, it means that the adjective is necessary. If your sentence still conveys the same sense without the adjective, then it may be unnecessary.
Removing unnecessary adjectives from your sentences instantly improves the readability of your manuscript. Removing unnecessary content can feel like removing speed bumps from your readers’ reading journey.
Get Rid of Extra Adverbs
Just like any other non-fiction author, you must also have the goal of conveying a crisp and clear message to your audience. Excessive adverbs may be the biggest enemy you face on this journey. You must look for a way to eliminate them from your work as soon as possible.
Adverbs are used to qualify verbs and play a significant role in boosting the readability of fiction prose. However, this is mostly not the case in non-fiction. Once you start editing your manuscript, you will notice that most sentences will read better when you take adverbs out.
Write with a Purpose
As a non-fiction writer, keeping up with a predefined word count can be a challenge at times. It is easier for writers to feel distracted and lost at times. In such circumstances, you do not have to write just for the sake of writing. This approach may work with fiction, but things are very different when it comes to writing non-fiction work.
Non-fiction cannot stand out without clarity, and it cannot be achieved if you do not write with a purpose. When writing, you must ensure that every sentence has a clear purpose and adds value to your message. Avoid filler words and phrases that do not contribute meaning, as they disrupt the flow and waste the reader’s time.
Create a Conversation
If a reader does not feel engaged while reading a nonfiction book, it may need improvement to be more conversational. Otherwise, you will have no hope of forming a connection with your readers, increasing the chances of them putting the book down.
You do not need beautiful words and lyrical sentences to make a connection with the readers. As long as you are maintaining clarity and delivering your message in a conversational manner, there is no way your readers can help but turn to the next page.
Using a simple and conversational tone enables readers to not have to interpret every small aspect of your manuscript while trying to learn bigger things from your book. Fiction readers always appreciate the use of simple language as it makes it easier for them to comprehend bigger concepts and understand the core message of your non-fiction book.