>>34238731Gladly.
The engagement initially drafted contained instances of stating mechanics (which as was pointed out, is something readers of Pokémon fanfiction are very likely familiar with) instead of showing their impact on my characters. This slowed my chapter's flow in places where the action was front and center, a paradox considering my intent was to write a frantic brawl. The high-octane became diluted. As a remedy, I removed unnecessary descriptions of meta-strategy and focused on animating the individuals in the thick of the fight. A rewrite with dramatic prose really served the situation well. The difference in how it read and what it became is night and day, greatly benefiting from a second opinion.
I always edit what I write, but I'm only one set of eyes. Even though the revision process is tackled with objectivity in mind, I find there's a certain bias (or self-unawareness) that is difficult to overcome when reviewing your own work after slaving over it. Would like to say I've gotten better at it, but that's thanks to having the feedback of others and a critique bank. Thoughtful criticism flags elements to improve upon so they become apparent hurdles rather than invisible pitfalls.
