Embracing the Editorial Process

For many scientists, the pandemic has given us time to write. From our home offices and kitchen tables, we are constructing grants, manuscripts, qualifying exams, science communication pieces, and theses. Personally, I love writing; it's my favorite part about being a scientist. But my enthusiasm isn't shared by all of my colleagues and friends. For many, writing is a necessary evil, and regardless if you enjoy or loathe the writing process, afterward comes the true nightmare, editing.
 
My Master of Science thesis was my first major editing experience. Previous to this writing venture, I was lauded for my writing ability. During my master's program, writing assignments usually landed me good grades and praise. Heck, I was a writing tutor; I knew my stuff. The first draft of my thesis manuscript was written carefully over the course of my final semester. I sent the draft to my PI, expecting to get an email back with minor edits and complements for my well-written work. (Oh, the naivety.)
 
My first draft was marked up in strikeouts and overflowed with comments. Surprised, I braced myself, read through her comments, and made draft #2. I figured I was done now that I had addressed her edits. Nope, more edits came. Draft #3 was written, and she sent along more edits. I edited five drafts in all and probably would've had more if we hadn't run out of time. The editing was hell, but undeniably, my thesis was astronomically improved due to the monotony of rereading and rewriting the fifty pages over and over.
 
Since my thesis, I've had numerous writing ventures, and rather than dread the editing phase, I have learned to embrace it, not as a chore I begrudgingly endure, but as an opportunity to sculpt my work as a piece of art. This change in mindset has decreased the anxiety and stress associated with editing. So, I am sharing my tips with you on how to improve your editing attitude.

1. Set realistic expectations. Don't make the mistake I did and expect your editor to love your work as is (it isn't their job to do that). Whenever asking someone to look over your work, anticipate criticism, and understand their notes are for your benefit.
2. Prepare for major edits. A common misconception I observed as a writing tutor is that editing is for fixing spelling and grammar errors. Spelling and grammar are the least of your worries and are usually addressed in one of the last drafts. Edits should check for flow, clarity, and tone. Notably, your work needs to be designed specifically for your audience.
3. Understand that edits are not insults. It's quite easy to get offended by edits, especially since your editor is probably not sugar coating their comments. Their edits are not a slight on you; they are an opportunity for you to improve.
4. Schedule ample time for editing. Don't spend all your time on the first draft and expect editing to happen overnight. Give yourself weeks before your deadline for both self-editing and for your colleagues to look at your work. I find its best to write a quick sloppy first draft and dedicate most of my writing time to editing.
5. Edit yourself first. Don't send out your first draft for edits! Make multiple passes over your first draft before sending it out for review. Also, I encourage you to walk away from your writing and come back to it on another day. You'll be surprised how critical your future self will be of your current writing.
6. Slash! Whole sentences and paragraphs you may be proud of may not make the final cut. Once you get the hang of slashing, it can be quite liberating. (This listicle initially had 10 tips instead of 8.) So, go ahead, hit that delete button!
7. Pick your battles. We may not always agree with our editors' comments, but often we do not have the choice to disagree if the edits are from our PI or a reviewer. Sometimes it's best to swallow your pride and make the edits you aren't happy to make. By not arguing over every edit, you give yourself leverage for the significant issues you wish to fight.
8. Get more than one opinion. The more eyes, the better! Have multiple colleagues look over your work. Find yourself a few edit buddies that are open to reviewing your writing and vice versa.

 
Editing turns an isolating experience into a collaborative project. Embrace the edits and keep an open mind to colleagues' opinions — happy writing and editing to all those working on projects during this pandemic.

Author

Kerry McPherson, @KerrySilvaMcph 
PhD Candidate studying biomedical sciences. Researches proteins implicated in chemotherapy resistance.
Passionate about STEM education outreach, science based policy, and inclusivity. 
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