Editing is about more than correcting grammar and syntax—it’s about guiding writers to refine and sharpen their narratives. Here are some practical tips for editors on how to work effectively with writers to produce compelling content.

1. Know your audience: One of the first points Jackson underscores is the importance of understanding the audience. The way a story is crafted depends heavily on who the readers are. Whether the content is for a magazine, a blog, or a more formal publication, the editor must keep the audience in mind at all stages. This ensures that the story’s message aligns with reader expectations and needs.
2. Streamline the narrative: A common challenge in editing is managing a writer’s tendency to include too much detail. Jackson advises editors to streamline the story by focusing on the core message. If a section doesn’t serve the main point or engage the reader, it can be cut. This not only sharpens the narrative but also makes the story more compelling and easy to follow.
3. The importance of constructive feedback: Editors need to offer feedback that is both specific and actionable. Instead of vague suggestions, providing clear direction on how to improve certain sections helps writers better understand how to enhance their work. Jackson advocates for feedback that encourages growth while maintaining a supportive tone, fostering a positive writer-editor relationship.

Being an effective editor means knowing how to help writers refine their work without compromising their voice. By focusing on audience, streamlining the narrative, and providing constructive feedback, editors can enhance the quality of the content while nurturing a collaborative spirit.

**This is based on the workshop “Sharpening the story: Working with writers to get to the heart of it all” presented by Hillary Jackson. You can watch the full workshop on-demand for free.**