Grammar Tips for Editing Fantasy

Avoid: Felt, Noticed, Saw, and Thought.

We have discussed using POV to draw the reader into our Epic Fantasy. When in limited character point of view, the writer is tempted to use these words. Always view each scene as if you are looking through your character's eyes. What can they see, how do they know how someone else is feeling? What mannerisms, words, actions indicate emotion or unspoken information. Practice this skill by observing people when you are in public. How much can you tell, of what others are thinking, or feeling? Replace these words with observations, to prevent 'telling not showing.'

For Example.
Rather than: 'He saw that the youth didn't understand.'

Try: 'The youth's eyes opened wide as he discarded the empty bowl and scratched his temple.'

Rather than: 'The hero thought the boy was upset.'
Try: 'The boy surged to his feet and spun the chair beside the cabinet. He ground his fist into his forehead and after a moment shook his head.'

Rather than: 'The hero felt the boy was accusing him.'
Try: 'The accusation in the boy's eyes worried the hero.'

Avoid: Prepositional Phrases.
'In the morning' 'Over the hill.'
Remember all things in moderation.

Avoid: The verb 'to be,' should be used with care.
'Be, are, was going, could be, would be, were going, had been. These words can lead us toward passive writing and telling not showing.

Avoid: Down, up, almost, really, just, so, had, that.
Keep use of these to a minimum.
Keep notes handy to jog your memory. These are hints for Fantasy writing. While famous authors of Fantasy fiction avoid passive voice, it is often used for essay writing and other documents.

Things to Strive For in Your Prose

Master the use of verbs. Find strong verbs to replace weak ones. 'Sprinted' rather than 'ran,' 'anticipated' rather than 'waited.' Make the Thesaurus your friend but do not use new words until you are familiar with them. Check meaning and usage in a dictionary to ensure correct grammar.

Place relevant information at the start of your paragraph and sentence. On the off chance a reader is skimming your work, placing important information or actions at the start of the paragraph, will keep them 'hooked.'

Keep your writing simple. Read your work aloud. As you read, strive to give your words rhythm. If your sentences don't flow, consider altering them. Create a flow and maintain it. Keep sentences to fewer than 25 words. Avoid run on sentences, and use short sentences to dictate pace and action.

Practice Your Editing Skills