Writing
is creating, but drafts need editing. I love Microsoft Word for its find and
replace feature. Eons ago, I learned to type using a typewriter. Because of that,
I have a habit of hitting the space bar twice after ending a sentence. That’s
not correct when using a computer. But there’s an easy fix. By clicking the
home tab and selecting replace, the find/replace
window opens. Now the magic begins when I double space on the find what line, then single space on the replace line and select replace all.
A twinge of satisfaction rushes through me when the command corrects twenty errors
with a single keystroke. I repeat the task until the computer reports no
replacements.
Recently,
I wanted to rename a town in my book. Instead of reading every page to find the
name, I used the feature. In an instant, Merryville became Cotton. I can also search for overused words. Turn and step pop up too
often in my stories. When I’m on a creative streak, any generic word will do. Later
I will use the find feature and
change it to something fabulous.
To
write well, I must write, write and rewrite.
