REVISE
What to Revise?
To revise is the alter features while preserving functions. Writers and editors are always revising, changing everything from spelling, to word choice, to grammar, to concept or plot. Early in my own case, I came to a very useful conclusion (back in my high school literature class) – what may initially appear to be the need for major changes (of whatever kind) can actually be feasibly achieved with minor (but strategic) alterations. Replace a few words or phrases and the whole sense can shift.
Why to Revise?
The desire to correct or the desire to improve, seem to be the two major motives. Wrong spelling or grammar should be changed – but the rationale of “improvement” is more problematical. When composition is delegated, be it for writing, music, blueprints, etc., requests for successive changes, all in the name of improvement, usually have declining marginal utility (and the decline curve is very steep) – the reason is usually scope creep.
When to Revise?
Appraise as soon as possible, but then delay in implementing changes long enough to take a “sober second look”. It is better to make a copy and mark it up rather than do so on the working copy. If in due course, all, or most of your desired changes still seem essential, then make a new copy and mark up only what is important for change. Always be specific about what is to replace what – vaguely worded dissatisfaction is gratuitous.
Whether to Revise?
In terms of the written word, so much of the desire for revision hangs on the desire for nuance, for fine shades of distinction. So, my recommendation follows the Plain Language movement – if revisions are aimed at simplifying the wording so as to clarify the message, good. If revisions are aimed at complicating the wording so as to elaborate the message, bad – follow the KISS Principle (Keep It Straight and Simple).
How to Revise?
In most cases the perceived need for revisions to delegated work arises because of poor initial specification – what was wanted was not clearly stated, perhaps not even clearly known. The preferred arrangement would be to either think it through before assigning it, or accept the submission as interpreted. This is probably utopian, so reviewers or editors should at least have the good grace to also recommend strategic alterations.
References
