I like to build my working time into blocks. Not only do I work on a timing system from an outline, but I write or edit in chunks or blocks and take breaks or switch projects in between. This not only gives me time to get up from the computer and stretch but also time for my mind to play. I can ask myself questions about the article and have fun with different ideas when I’m not actively writing or editing but still engaged with an unfinished project.

Here is how I block a typical article/blog post.

1. Outline. Whether I’m the author or the editor, I like to outline the article to make sure all the pieces are in the correct spot. If I’m writing, I will start to fill in the outline with basic ideas. If I’m editing, I will deduce the outline and if there are outlier points, I will start to group those and think about their commonalities.
2. Draft/First Pass. Usually when I come back to the computer after some time away, I can see which parts of my outline were right on and which parts might have missed the mark. If I’m editing, I can also double check to see if the outline from the author is the best way to get their points across to their audience. It’s easier for me to start writing after a little break, because the ideas have been marinating while I was off-screen and being back at the computer feels fresh. When writing a draft, I like to get it all out, knowing some of the sentences will need reworked or word choices expanded. When editing, I check for the easy corrections and make suggestions if something needs moved around to better fit into the article as a whole. 
3. Polish. This is my favorite part. Polishing is a great time to check for grammar, get out the thesaurus to make sure words aren’t repeating, add transitional sentences, and restructure some of your original writing to add in the brand voice and personality. When editing, this is when I get into the deep suggestions that are more nuanced, being mindful to amplify and enhance the author’s voice, tone, and message. Sometimes, when I am ready to polish, I realize my first pass wasn’t good enough and then I go back to square one.
4. Publish. Even after a piece is polished and shiny, I like to step away for a little while before hitting publish or sending copy back to a client. I want to look it over one more time with fresh eyes to catch any last minute edits or grammar mistakes. This is also when I will read a piece out loud. You might be surprised what you can catch hearing an article audibly. 

Taking time between each block of writing or editing can make all the difference in how quickly you can get something turned around. Harder to quantify, but I know my time away from an article is still time spent working on it in my head. When I step back to the computer screen, I’m more efficient with both writing and editing, ensuring the best for my clients.