Editing and Publishing Step # 4 Editing is often the hardest step of the writing process because it involves constructive criticism. Before you give it to someone else to read over, read your last draft on your own. Check grammar (tenses, correct words), spelling, and punctuation. Make sure you are satisfied with your writing. Give it to someone who you know will be honest, like a parent, friend or teacher. You want them to help you, which means that they should be honest, and tell you what they really think. You might be defensive of your story or poem when you first give it to someone to read. If they give you suggestions, or tell you to change something, seriously consider it. If you feel that you don't like their suggestion, then you shouldn't feel obligated to take it! Most of the time, it's good to get the opinon of your readers, and sometimes, their suggestions might work in your story. Once someone else has read your piece and given you suggestions, look it over, and give it final finishing touches. We found a very detailed rubric that you might want to use to help you read over your piece. Then you can pick a place to publish it. There are several websites that will publish your work--- including purplestar. Read the directions below to help you publish it in one or more places: To publish on purplestar: Go to the Write page. Fill out the form and type your story in. If you typed your story in another place (ie: a Word program), highlight it on your word processor and then press Ctrl c or Apple c on a mac (or go to the above menu and go to Edit copy). Then, put the cursor in the story box at purple star and press Ctrl v or Apple v on a mac (or go to the above menu and go to Edit paste) There are other sites to publish at too: -Magic Glade: Purple star's partner magic glade also accepts stories written by and for kids! -Kidscribe: Click here to submit writing to a Multilengual publisher for kids and teens! Click here to visit the Kidscribe homepage -Kidlit: Email Kidlit one of your stories. Or click here to visit the kidlit homepage -edbydesign.com storyteller:Click here to submit your writing to edbydesign.com storyteller. Or click here to go to their homepage. Some kids' magazines publish children's work. Look for a literary magazine publisher near you! Step # 5 ~> Share your thoughts on the message board Back to the workshops home General Tips for Writing Stream of consciousness "seeds" Activities, prompts and exercises Writer to writer message board Links Read | Write | Respond | Book Reviews | Site Reviews | Home