It's called grant writing. Alas, there's so much
more to grant writing than just "writing."
Successful grant writing always starts with
comprehensive and thorough research, and it always ends with a careful and thoughtful review.
Your review should be a combination of proofreading and editing.
So, what's the difference?
WHAT IS PROOFREADING?
Proofreading looks for and corrects basic mistakes including typos, grammar and punctuation. Editing looks for these same errors and more.
WHAT IS EDITING?
One type of editing is simple copy editing. In copy editing, you're fixing basic mistakes and also correcting the formatting and style of the work, ensuring consistency and correctness.
A second type of editing is substantive editing. Like it sounds, this is a more substantial edit. Sometimes, it's called a "heavy edit." The goal is to make your writing more readable. You want to take out jargon and buzzwords. You want to present a logical, coherent and persuasive case. Heavy editing may involve rearranging sections or rewriting them altogether.
THE 5 'C's OF EDITING
When you're writing a grant proposal – and especially as you're editing one – ask yourself, "Is the writing...?"
- Clear
- Correct
- Concise
- Comprehensible
- Consistent
Let the 5 'C's be your guide as you're writing and editing your grant proposals, and you'll produce better proposals every time.
Send me a message and
let me know if you're challenged by editing, proofreading or both. I love hearing from you and finding ways to help.
TIPS OF THE TRADE
Remember, there's more to grant writing than just "writing." Like editing!
Here are three resources that will give you more insight to grant writing and copy editing and how to do both better.
8 Grant Proposal Writing Tips
12 Tips to Help You Edit and Improve Your Writing
Copy Editing Tips, including a detailed explanation of the 5 'C's
Third Sector Consulting helps nonprofits find more funders, win more grants and raise more money.
Send a message to start the conversation and learn how Third Sector Consulting can help you and your organization.
About The Author
Laura Rhodes is a Certified Fund Raising Executive, fundraising consultant, speaker, and trainer. She's helped nonprofit organizations raise millions of dollars from foundations and individual donors. When she's not writing grants, appeal letters or case statements, she enjoys teaching staff and board members how to raise more money for the causes they love.