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The Outlining Level happens in my head or on paper.
This is not unlike brainstorming for some folks. It's often unintentional. And if I remember this level's musings by the next level (drafting), it moves forward with me. Anything else is jettisoned.
If it was good or important, I'll remember it.
The Drafting Level is where I generate new content on a blank page or screen. This is by far the easiest of levels for me.
I have no shortage of ideas. Not all of them will see the light of day, but my brain has been in story mode since the early 80s.
It's like WIP Central Station up in here (Up. In. Here.) at all times. This is also why I don't drive or write or walk or hang out with music on. It's already too noisy.
Once I've done the WIP due diligence by letting it Stew In It's Own Filth, I will tackle a revision.
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The Revising Level is a many splendored thing including, but not limited to:
- reading the WIP in one sitting
- re-reading the WIP in bits and pieces
- leaving notes/comments to future Erica
- drawing maps
- re-outlining
- Murder She Wrote marathons
- day job,
- Blogging
- coloring
- cleaning
- snacks
Anything goes at this level because I burn out quickly because I'm on overdrive. However, I am learning not to feel bad about it.
Why?
Because Not-Writing is a part of my process. I can't pour from an empty cup.
The Proofreading Level is a twitbucket and can kiss my printer.
I hate this level with the burning intensity of a hundred-dozen D+ essays. Let me be clear: I am a decent proofreader. But I am just not wired to see my own WIP objectively.
Of course I've tried proofreading for myself, but when I do all that happens is that my revising-self steamrolls in and drops these plot twist ideas that should be squashed down long ago.
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