The Question

Ask this question to support your storytelling

by Rochelle Melander

NPR talks about “driveway moments”—when you sit in your driveway to finish listening to a story. I had one last week in my garage. On NPR’s Go Fact Yourself (episode 136), the hosts interviewed director John Badham.

He said this about directing, “You have to approach everything like, what’s the point of this? What are we trying to accomplish during the scene? What’s the goal of our leading man as they’re flying helicopters down through the LA riverbed and being chased by guys with machine guns in another helicopter?”

That might be the only editing advice you ever need.

When you write, put it all in. The main story, the research details that make your heart sing, the easter eggs you know your readers will love.

As you’re editing your book, look at every single scene or section of your book and ask: What’s the point of this? What am I trying to accomplish during this scene or section?

If you don’t have an answer, then you need to revise or cut.

What’s your measuring stick for editing?

Write Now! Coach Rochelle Melander is an author and ADHD-trained professional certified coach. She’s helped hundreds of people write and publish books. If you’re struggling to start or finish a project, connect with Rochelle to create a personalized plan for overcoming procrastination, dealing with distraction, and staying focused. Book a private consultation: https://writenowcoach.com/consultation/