This is topic Has anyone else ever noticed that when they post in Fragments and feedback in forum Open Discussions About Writing at Hatrack River Writers Workshop.
they can see certain errors in their work before any comments are made? It must be something about the background color.
Posted by Robert Nowall (Member # 2764) on :
Not surprising that they spot errors and problems in what they post. But they could also be looking for advice on how to correct them.
(Don't look at me for more than the vaguest generalizations. I'm largely absent in Fragments and Feedbacks, looking rarely and commenting even more rarely. You guys, who post there all the time, you step up and provide better answers than I can...)
Posted by Beth (Member # 2192) on :
A lot of times, just seeing your work in a different context exposes all kinds of problems.
Reading it out loud has the same effect.
Posted by autumnmuse (Member # 2136) on :
I notice over-use of words when I read aloud that I usually miss in the original heat of writing it all down.
And yes, posting my fragment usually helps me see errors in it right away, even before comments.
I think it's because my brain slides into 'edit' mode the instant my mouse button clicks on F&F.
Posted by hoptoad (Member # 2145) on :
Aye.
Posted by hoptoad (Member # 2145) on :
Reading out loud (as mentioned) is the same. So is printing it out and checking hard copy.
Reading out loud makes me aware of cadence, difficult sound combinations, etc.
Posted by quidscribis (Member # 2240) on :
Changing the font and background color when you're viewing it on your computer can also help.
Posted by Susannaj4 (Member # 3189) on :
I have tried all these things as suggested.I personally think that it was because(I thought) someone else was going to read it that wasn't afraid to tell me their opinion.
Posted by Jeraliey (Member # 2147) on :
That helps, too.
Posted by Silver3 (Member # 2174) on :
Yup, that helps. But so does seeing it in a different context.
Posted by MaryRobinette (Member # 1680) on :
I've noticed that and always thought it was because I was looking at only thirteen lines. It's much easier to edit thirteen lines than it is to edit the opening to a story--even if it's the exact same length.
Posted by Marva (Member # 3171) on :
I hate it when you're submitting a story to a publisher and it's contained within the email. That few seconds it takes to complete the send and you're helpless to stop it, that's when you spot the typo. Argh.