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Editing Quote by David Mitchell

“Writing is probably one-fifth coming up with the stuff, and four-fifths self-editing again and again and again.” quote by David Mitchell
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“Writing is probably one-fifth coming up with the stuff, and four-fifths self-editing again and again and again.”

David Mitchell

About This Quote

Source Interview: The Guardian, David Mitchell, 2018

Writing requires far more effort in revising and polishing than in generating initial ideas.

In simple terms: Editing dominates the writing process.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize editing to improve your work.

Themes

creativity process discipline

Mood

thoughtful pragmatic

Type

advice inspirational

When to use this quote

  • drafting
  • self-editing
  • publishing
  • academic writing

Key Concepts

writing revision productivity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How much time should you allocate to editing?
  • What balance between creation and revision works for you?
A Different Perspective

It may undervalue the importance of original ideas.

4.7 out of 5 (4 ratings)

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