How to step up any manuscript a notch:

1. On the first draft, write loose, free flowing, and sloppy. Flush out random thoughts. Flood words on the blank pages.
2. Pen a one sentence focused theme of what you think you’re trying to say. Eliminate every detour and divergence.
3. Jot down bunches of working titles, then choose the zippiest one.
4. Find your best line--make that the opener.
5. Now, circle every passive verb (is, was, were, etc.) and attempt to substitute active verbs.
6. Eliminate every lazy, unnecessary adverb and participle. Rewrite a dynamite sentence.
7. Chop off end-of-sentence prepositions. Rewrite into a smooth, natural sounding semblence of logical presentation of thought.
8. Read your manuscript outloud to discover off-rhythm or repetitious words and phrases.
9. Get a rude friend to read your project. Ask them to circle your over-used words, cliches, pet phrases, or the ones that peeve them the most.
10. Insert or substitute a doozy of an original story--from your experience, imagination, or watching someone else endure gritty or funny stuff—that nails the theme. Eliminate internet homilies.

RECOMMENDED RESOURCES:
Self-Editing For Fiction Writers, by Renni Browne & Dave King
An Introduction to Christian Writing, by Ethel Herr
Getting Published, by Sally E. Stuart
The Elements of Style, by William Strunk, Jr., & E. B. White
The Elements of Grammar, by Margaret Shertzer
Words on Target, by Sue Nichols
Techniques of the Selling Writer, by Dwight V. Swain
Better Vocabulary in 30 Minutes a Day, by Edie Schwager