Just Write It
Don’t: Edit while you write
One of the most common mistakes new writers make is trying to perfect their first draft as they write, thinking this will save time later. But writing and editing are two distinct processes. Trying to combine them only creates more problems, and some writers find themselves constantly rewriting certain sections without ever moving forward. Far from saving time, it’s a great way to never finish.
Do: Get your ideas down, then edit them
Professional writing is never a straightforward, beginning-to-end process. In fact, experienced authors will often write the introduction last. Much of what you initially write will likely change drastically or even end up scrapped, so there is no point in trying to “perfect” it in the first draft. But every word that moves your writing forward has value, whether or not it makes the final cut. So start by writing down whatever comes to mind and see where it takes you.
As your writing begins to take shape, it will become ever clearer what you need to add, cut, or rewrite, which simplifies editing. But once you have a complete manuscript, however rough, don’t be afraid to wield the red pen to trim and reshape your writing into a coherent message your readers can easily follow.
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