Morgan Editing https://morganediting.com/ An editorial blog. Fri, 30 May 2025 03:53:12 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.1 https://i0.wp.com/morganediting.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/cropped-1nS2ct-LogoMakr-favicon-3.png?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1 Morgan Editing https://morganediting.com/ 32 32 194906956 How Humans Train Large Language Models: 5 Steps https://morganediting.com/how-humans-train-large-language-models-5-steps/ https://morganediting.com/how-humans-train-large-language-models-5-steps/#respond Fri, 30 May 2025 03:17:10 +0000 https://morganediting.com/?p=2224 AI requires a huge amount of written words to begin producing text before it starts generating any output. The training data includes all forms of text from books to articles and websites and even conversations.

Researchers collect text data from all parts of the internet to construct the foundation of the AI model. The AI lacks the capacity to understand words like a human being.

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Introduction

ChatGPT alongside Google’s Gemini and other LLMs have stunned everyone with their capacity to generate text in a way that resembles human speech. 

These models display capabilities which include story creation alongside question response and conversation performance that seems natural. How exactly do these models achieve such effective communication? 

The solution involves a mixture between advanced computational power and extensive text information and essential human direction. In this article, we will explore the process of human involvement in training AI models.

Step 1: Feeding the AI a Lot of Text

AI requires a huge amount of written words to begin producing text before it starts generating any output. The training data includes all forms of text from books to articles and websites and even conversations. 

Researchers collect text data from all parts of the internet to construct the foundation of the AI model. The AI lacks the capacity to understand words like a human being. 

The AI develops knowledge by identifying regularities in text patterns through learning which sequences of words tend to appear together.

Step 2: Teaching the AI to Predict Words

After obtaining a massive text dataset, the AI begins to discover word relationships. Neural networks function as powerful computer systems that conduct the training process. 

The system provides a sentence with an omitted word to the AI for it to make a prediction about which word should replace it. The system makes adjustments after every incorrect prediction with the goal of improvement for the next attempt. 

The AI repeats this process millions or billions of times until it develops exceptional word prediction abilities.

Step 3: Human Trainers Take Charge of the Process

AI benefits from data learning but still requires human intervention to reach its full potential. This is where trainers come in. 

These trainers interact with the AI, asking it questions and rating its responses. When the AI produces an unusual or erroneous answer, trainers provide feedback to direct the AI toward creating better responses. 

The human assessment plays a vital role because it enables the AI to grasp what constitutes a helpful response as well as polite or amusing interactions.

Step 4: Reinforcement Learning—Making AI Smarter

The AI receives extensive training from text data combined with human feedback before undergoing reinforcement learning. It receives ongoing improvement through feedback input from human evaluators. 

The AI system receives ranking feedback from trainers regarding multiple responses starting from the best to the worst and uses this information to learn. 

The system gradually enhances its ability to deliver precise and useful answers while also improving the entertainment value of its outputs.

Step 5: Avoiding Mistakes and Biases

The technology exhibits imperfections through sporadic mistakes and preserves existing biases. 

Research teams together with human trainers dedicate themselves to decreasing errors in the system. Researchers eliminate dangerous content from training data then modify the AI to operate within established ethical standards. 

The system operates to provide maximum fairness and helpfulness in its output.

Conclusion

The Large Language Models demonstrate impressive capabilities yet they need human assistance to function. 

These models need extensive text information along with sophisticated computing training and, most critically, human trainers to direct them. 

As AI systems advance, human oversight will play an essential role in enhancing their accuracy while maintaining ethical standards to benefit all users.✿

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]]> https://morganediting.com/how-humans-train-large-language-models-5-steps/feed/ 0 2224 From Surgeon to Civil Rights Pioneer: The Legacy of Dr. Anderson Ruffin Abbott https://morganediting.com/from-surgeon-to-civil-rights-pioneer-the-legacy-of-dr-anderson-ruffin-abbott/ Thu, 24 Apr 2025 21:37:37 +0000 https://morganediting.com/?p=2190 Anderson Ruffin Abbott was born in Toronto, Upper Canada (now Ontario). His parents Wilson Ruffin Abbott and Ellen Toyer had escaped Alabama because of racial conflicts and business threats.

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Portrait of Dr. Anderson Abbott
By Brady's National Photographic Portrait Galleries

Dr. Anderson Ruffin Abbott started his life as a surgeon before becoming a civil rights pioneer whose legacy remains prominent in Canadian history.

Anderson Ruffin Abbott served as the first Canadian-born physician from Black descent who achieved professional distinction in Canadian medical history. 

Throughout his life from April 7, 1837 until his death on December 29, 1913 he delivered important medical contributions, educational services and civil rights activism. 

Through his determination, Abbott opened professional opportunities for Black Canadians who followed him and he created lasting impacts on Canadian and American history.

Early Life and Education

Anderson Ruffin Abbott was born in Toronto, Upper Canada (now Ontario). His parents Wilson Ruffin Abbott and Ellen Toyer had escaped Alabama because of racial conflicts and business threats. 

The Abbott family established their home in Toronto when Wilson built his business success and acquired property which made him prominent throughout the community. 

Anderson obtained quality education because of his family’s economic prosperity. His education included studying at both private educational institutions and public schools including the prestigious Buxton Mission School at the Elgin settlement which housed freed slaves. 

Abbott pursued his academic journey by attending the Toronto Academy before moving on to study at Oberlin College which gained recognition for its open approach to interracial learning. 

University College in Toronto accepted Abbott in 1857 followed by enrollment at the Toronto School of Medicine. 

Dr. Anderson Ruffin Abbott received his medical education under Dr. Alexander Thomas Augusta who also became a famous Black physician in his own right. 

Abbott secured his medical license in 1861 and received the distinction of becoming Canada’s first doctor born to Black parents. (Wikipedia)

Medical Career and the American Civil War

During the American Civil War (1863) Abbott felt an inner urge to serve. He moved to Washington D.C. where he joined the Union Army as a civilian surgeon. 

During his time at the Contraband Hospital (later named Freedmen’s Hospital) Abbott treated Black soldiers from the United States Colored Troops alongside formerly enslaved people who had sought refuge in the capital. 

His outstanding work resulted in his appointment as the surgeon-in-chief at the hospital during November 1864. 

Abbott was honored to attend a White House reception in February 1864, where he was received with courtesy by President Abraham Lincoln; this was a significant moment for Black professionals at that time. 

Abbott joined a small group of people who paid their respects when President Lincoln lay in state after his assassination in April 1865. 

The Wisconsin Historical Society possesses the shawl Mary Todd Lincoln gave him after the president’s death as a symbol of appreciation. (Circulating Now; Encyclopedia Britannica; Wikipedia)

Post-War Contributions in Canada

After the war, Abbott returned to Canada and opened his medical practice while deeply involved with community affairs. 

He married Mary Ann Casey in 1871 and they raised five children together. 

The medical services of Anderson Ruffin Abbott coupled with his active advocacy for education and civil rights led him to establish his medical practice in Chatham, Ontario. 

Abbott dedicated his time to leadership positions at the Wilberforce Educational Institute and used his influence to fight against racial segregation in Ontario schools until their eventual closure. 

The public recognized his dedication to service by appointing him coroner for Kent County in 1874 which made him the first Black person to hold this position in Canada. (Wikipedia)

Later Years and Legacy

Throughout his life, Anderson Abbott maintained his dedication to both medicine and service in the community. 

During the 1890s he became surgeon-in-chief at Provident Hospital in Chicago where he led the first training hospital for Black nurses in America. 

Under his leadership at the facility he created better medical care standards while enabling Black women to take advantage of significant nursing opportunities. 

Abbott displayed his intellectual abilities through his writing activities which produced many articles about medical subjects as well as biological studies and historical research focused on Black people and civil rights issues. 

Through his writings he demonstrated his unyielding dedication to Black progress and his support for education and cultural integration as paths toward equality. 

Through his life work Abbott demonstrated his ability to break through barriers while leading progress forward. 

Through his medical practice and educational pursuits Abbott created pathways that future Black Canadians would use to build their communities. 

He died in Toronto on December 29, 1913 leaving behind a legacy based on his persistence for equality and his determination and resilience. 

His achievements remain celebrated through time as an everlasting tribute in Canadian historical records.✿ (Wikipedia; Biographi)

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]]> 2190 Biotech Breakthroughs: Will Lab-Grown Meat and Gene Editing Transform Humanity? https://morganediting.com/biotech-breakthroughs-will-lab-grown-meat-and-gene-editing-transform-humanity/ https://morganediting.com/biotech-breakthroughs-will-lab-grown-meat-and-gene-editing-transform-humanity/#comments Sun, 30 Mar 2025 21:54:07 +0000 https://morganediting.com/?p=2150 Human gene editing raises two fundamental questions: Should people have access to gene editing technology and what boundaries should exist regarding human genetic modifications?

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A scientist creating lab-grown meat.

The future of biotechnology in 2025 shows unprecedented development through lab-grown meat and gene editing technologies that lead to revolutionary changes.

These technological advancements show potential to transform food manufacturing alongside medical care while simultaneously affecting human evolutionary development.

The innovative techniques produce critical moral, financial and wellness questions. Are we prepared for this biotech-driven future? We need to examine the potential effects.

What is Lab-Grown Meat?

Scientists develop lab-grown meat by cultivating animal cells inside controlled containers outside animal bodies.

This new production approach enables meat manufacturing to happen without raising traditional livestock which might address environmental issues and ethical questions related to animal meat consumption.

The companies Upside Foods, Eat Just, and Mosa Meat pursue commercialization of this technology to deliver lab-grown meat to stores and dining establishments.

Potential Benefits

Meat production from traditional livestock operations remains among the leading causes of greenhouse gas emissions as well as deforestation and water utilization. The production of lab-grown meat demonstrates a promising solution to minimize the environmental effects of the meat industry.

A study from Oxford University indicates cultivated meat could decrease traditional beef production emissions by 96% which represents a major environmental benefit.

Lab-grown meat provides an animal rights-friendly solution for consumers who want to eat meat but dislike animal slaughter.

Engineered cultivated meat allows scientists to remove antibiotics and hormones and eliminate harmful pathogens that commonly occur in factory-farmed meat products thus lowering antibiotic resistance risks and foodborne diseases.

Nutritional Concerns

The protein structure of conventional meat found in lab-grown meat is replicated yet scientists continue their efforts to ensure the presence of essential nutrients like vitamin B12 that naturally occurs in animal products, helps maintain nerve function, and produces red blood cells.

The human body absorbs heme iron which exists in animal meat better than iron compounds derived from plants.

The brain and heart require omega-3 fatty acids which are present in fish together with certain meats.

The nutritional value of lab-grown meat requires artificial nutritional enhancement if it fails to include essential nutrients such as vitamin B12, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids. The research team works to develop methods which enable natural vitamin and mineral manufacturing during lab-based cell cultivation.

Challenges & Costs

The expensive nature of lab-grown meat production stems from the high costs of cell culture media combined with bioreactor technology. The decreasing price trend of cultivated meat will require multiple years before it reaches parity with conventional meat products.

The general public expresses doubts about consuming lab-grown meat because they doubt its taste and texture and worry about future health consequences.

The public needs to understand how lab-grown meat is produced because clear explanations will build trust among consumers.

What is Gene Editing?

Scientists utilize CRISPR gene editing technology to make precise modifications to DNA sequences.

Scientists have achieved this breakthrough which enables them to prevent genetic diseases while improving human abilities as well as shape DNA traits across future generations.

Potential Medical Breakthroughs

Medical professionals employ gene therapy to treat patients suffering from sickle cell anemia as well as muscular dystrophy and several types of blindness.

Research teams investigate methods to stop inherited illnesses such as cystic fibrosis and Huntington’s disease and particular cancer types from being passed down.

Researchers study gene editing techniques for potential applications in slowing down human aging by controlling cellular repair and longevity-related genes.

Through gene editing patients can grow new organs from their own cells which would eliminate organ transplant requirements while making rejection impossible.

Creation of Designer Babies

Gene editing technology enables remarkable medical applications yet sparks moral debates about human genetic modification:

Do parents have the right to choose specific traits such as intelligence level, physical attributes, or eye shade for their children?

Genetic enhancements might produce more social distance between individuals who have access to these technologies and those without access.

Modifying genes might produce unforeseen health problems due to unexpected side effects.

Accessibility and Inequality

Biotech innovations will deepen economic inequalities because gene editing and lab-grown meat technology will remain expensive for many people.

The limited access to genetic enhancements along with healthier lab-cultivated foods will cause health and life expectancy gaps to grow between wealthy and poor populations.

Unintended Consequences

New side effects frequently accompany technological developments in biotechnology.

The disease elimination capabilities of gene editing might produce unintended genetic mutations that appear as side effects.

Researchers continue to investigate how lab-grown meat production affects the environment.

Bioreactors at large scale need substantial energy resources for operation and the durability of this technology beyond the present remains unclear.

The Big Questions for 2025 and Beyond

The future of lab-grown meat production and gene editing technologies requires us to address essential questions.

Will lab-grown meat establish itself as a common replacement for conventional meat products?

The nutritional value of lab-grown meat will require supplements to match natural meat unless it reaches full nutritional equivalence.

Human gene editing raises two fundamental questions: Should people have access to gene editing technology and what boundaries should exist regarding human genetic modifications?

Biotech advancements pose unknown risks that could damage both natural environments and human societies.

Conclusion: Are We Ready for the Future?

Biotechnology has started transforming our world by creating promising prospects and multifaceted moral challenges.

The potential of lab-grown meat as a sustainable food choice exists but its high cost and consumer skepticism and nutritional doubts need resolution.

Gene editing possesses the ability to cure diseases yet it generates substantial concerns regarding human genetic modification and social disparities.

These breakthroughs will continue to spark increasingly intense discussions. Our current decisions about biotechnology will establish both scientific progress and human destiny.✿

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]]> https://morganediting.com/biotech-breakthroughs-will-lab-grown-meat-and-gene-editing-transform-humanity/feed/ 1 2150 Elijah McCoy: The man who was behind the famous quote, ‘The Real McCoy’ https://morganediting.com/elijah-mccoy-the-man-who-was-behind-the-famous-quote-the-real-mccoy/ Tue, 04 Feb 2025 22:44:08 +0000 https://morganediting.com/?p=2117 When people use the term ‘the real McCoy’ they may be referring to something real, or of high quality. But, do you know that this phrase is associated with a great inventor whose name was Elijah McCoy? He is the man who ensured that machines ran efficiently and without complications through his creations. Let’s get to learn more about this extraordinary man and how he influenced the society.

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Portrait of Elijah McCoy
Portrait of Elijah McCoy
Rights Held by: Ypsilanti Historical Society

When people use the term ‘the real McCoy’ they may be referring to something real, or of high quality.

But, do you know that this phrase is associated with a great inventor named Elijah  McCoy?

He is the man who ensured that machines ran efficiently and without complications through his creations.  Let’s get to learn more about this extraordinary man and how he influenced the society.

Early Life and Education

The birth of Elijah McCoy took place on May 2, 1844, in  Colchester, Ontario, Canada. His parents were freed slaves from Kentucky and they escaped to Canada through the Underground  Railroad.

When he was still very young, his parents moved to Michigan and McCoy showed a lot of interest in mechanics at an early age.

Even though there were restrictions on the opportunities for black people, McCoy’s parents had been able to save enough money to send him to Scotland to study mechanical engineering.

He trained as an engineer and went back to the United States to search for a job in his area of choice.

But McCoy was deprived of a job due to racism and he could only manage to get a job as a fireman and oilman with the Michigan Central Railroad. But McCoy did not allow this to prevent him from becoming a historian.

The Invention That Changed Everything

During the time McCoy worked for the railroad, he identified a major issue. It was a real challenge because steam engines required to be stopped and oiled by humans which slowed down the movement of trains and wasted time.

He came up with a solution: a lubricating cup that would provide oil to moving parts of the train even when the train was in motion. This meant that trains could travel for more miles and at higher speeds without having to stop as often for repairs.

In 1872, McCoy patented his automatic lubricating device, which was an important part of trains, ships, and factory machines.  It was because his product was so reliable that companies did not want cheap imitations.

They asked for  “the real McCoy” only, a phrase that became a hallmark of quality and excellence.

Other Inventions and Accomplishments

McCoy did not stop at the first invention; he made 57  patents in his lifetime, most of which were related to lubrication and included a folding ironing board and a lawn sprinkler.

His ideas helped to improve the development of industries and increase the productivity and efficiency of transportation and manufacturing.

As successful as he was, McCoy had his share of difficulties. He was unable to produce his inventions on his own because he did not have the funds to do so,  and thus had to sell off his patents.

However, his brilliance could not be hidden, and his work remained in high demand.

Legacy and Contribution to the World

Elijah McCoy’s efforts in the field of engineering and mechanics saw him come up with innovations that changed the face of industrial technology. His automatic lubrication systems were adopted in locomotives, ships, and even present-day machinery due to their efficiency. 

If it were not for his invention, there are a lot of companies that would have not been as effective as they are today.

McCoy is still famous to this day. He was welcomed into the National Inventors Hall of Fame in  2001. He did not just make the machines work better but also opened the door for the black inventors and engineers to come up.✿

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]]> 2117 From Cubicles to Cloud: The Future of Remote Work https://morganediting.com/from-cubicles-to-cloud-the-future-of-remote-work/ Thu, 30 Jan 2025 04:40:31 +0000 https://morganediting.com/?p=2085 The statements made by the senior executives of various companies during the pandemic that remote work was effective and could be made permanent were no longer applicable. This time the issue was not only the necessity of face-to-face communication but also the fear of reduced productivity.

To the companies, it became more effective to work from the office. It also became more cost-effective to downsize the workforce although many companies had grown financially during the pandemic.

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A woman dressed casually sitting at a desk and typing on a laptop.

January 2025 — Three Canadian unions with more than 330,000 workers launched a campaign for remote work. The unions got together to require the federal government to have flexible work arrangements.

Sharon DeSousa, the national president of the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) said, “The evidence is clear: remote work is good work.”

The Backstory

The world has undergone significant change in the aftermath of the global pandemic.

Before the widespread invasion of COVID-19, the concept of working from home was not even thinkable to many people.

It seemed to be a given that the best way to work was to be at the physical business of the company one was employed in.

About 7% of Canadians worked remotely in May 2016, according to Statistics Canada, compared to 40% in April 2020, and 20% in November 2023.

The concept of telecommuting was first suggested in the 1970s by rocket scientist Jack Nilles but the available technology at the time could not facilitate its widespread adoption. 

In 2020, with the advancement in technology, including the Internet, email, Software-as-a-Service (Saas), and personal computers, those technological limitations were no longer an issue. 

It was the pandemic that finally pushed the telecommuting model into a feasible and popular one. 

As more and more people were diagnosed with COVID-19, it became a concern to keep people from being in close quarters. Before long, companies had to find a way to continue operations with people’s bodies being missing from the office. 

In comes the work-at-home initiative to maintain productivity. Those who had the coronavirus and were still capable of working could do so from the safety of their homes. 

Employers could still run their operations and employees could reduce their exposure to traffic congestion—a win-win, if you will.

While lockdowns lasted, many employers had to send a large number of their employees to work from home. But when the vaccine did its magic and people started to feel normal again, the employers’ demand to go back to the office cubicles followed suit.

The Pushback

The take-up rate of remote work is different according to the industry, area, and level of employment. 

Some sectors including technology, financial services, business and professional, creative, media and entertainment have easily integrated remote work into their business models while others such as healthcare and manufacturing have stuck to the conventional method of work. 

When the first return-to-office plans started to emerge in 2021, it was the employees who were able to work from home who complained. They did not want to lose the flexibility that remote work provided. 

Employees valued remote work so much that some of them were willing to leave their jobs if they were to be asked to work from the office full-time. 

However, several big companies issued policies that stated that their employees had to go back to the office. Some of those companies include Google, Amazon, JPMorgan, and Zoom. The federal government workers were also expected to be in the office three days a week. 

The statements made by the senior executives of various companies during the pandemic that remote work was effective and could be made permanent were no longer applicable. This time the issue was not only the necessity of face-to-face communication but also the fear of reduced productivity. 

To the companies, it became more effective to work from the office. It also became more cost-effective to downsize the workforce although many companies had grown financially during the pandemic. 

The industries that have embraced remote work, for example, tech industries, have had increasing layoffs. In 2023, in an open letter to his employees, the CEO of Meta, Mark Zuckerberg announced, “Our initial analysis of the performance data suggests that engineers who either joined Meta on-site and then moved to remote or who joined remote performed, on average, worse than those who joined in-person.” 

In the same letter, he announced the layoff of about 10,000 people. As a result of increasing layoffs, many employees have had to comply with their return-to-office policies.

The Compromise

The concept of the hybrid work model appeared after the pandemic as a middle ground between the approaches of companies and employees.

Working remotely has many benefits for both the employees and the organizations. The employees get flexibility, better work-life balance, and low costs associated with travel and child care. 

As for the employers, they are able to hire from a larger talent pool, have lower costs, and often, higher productivity from a happy remote team. This way, the environment also benefits from reduced pollution and a smaller carbon footprint. 

According to a Statistics Canada study, if all the eligible remote workers in 2015 had worked from home, transportation emissions could have been reduced by 9.5 megatonnes or 12 percent of the household transportation emissions that year. 

Some issues are there and the primary concern is that of isolation of employees as certain workers face problems with less social interaction and teamwork. Furthermore, issues regarding career growth also come into the picture since remote employees may have limited opportunities for networking and visibility within the company. 

Therefore, to make remote work sustainable, businesses must tackle these issues by improving communication, providing mental health services, and spending on digital tools. Hence, it can be predicted that the trend of remote work will increase further in the future. 

It is anticipated that most organizations will adopt a hybrid model, which will combine the advantages of remote work and in-person work. Organizations that adapt to this change and devote themselves to their remote employees will be well-equipped for the future in a world that is increasingly connected. 

The Canadian federal unions have backed remote work, hence flexible work arrangements are still under consideration as the pushback persists. The unions said, “We are also calling on the public to join the movement and support remote work — not only for the federal public service, but as a new standard for workplaces across the country.”

Conclusion

Remote work is here to stay. There are challenges, but the flexibility, more job opportunities, and technological development are worth it. 

By solving the problem of the absence of connectivity, by improving the remote work policies, and by creating a solid digital workplace culture, companies can succeed in the future of work. 

PSAC’s research shows that remote options and flexible work arrangements are critical for attracting and keeping the right employees.

As individuals, businesses, and policymakers continue to adapt, one thing is clear—remote work is not just a trend but a fundamental shift in how we work and live.✿

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]]> 2085 Your Guide to Success: 3 Essential Steps to Traditional Publishing https://morganediting.com/your-guide-to-success-3-essential-steps-to-traditional-publishing/ Mon, 30 Dec 2024 22:39:20 +0000 https://morganediting.com/?p=2019 So, you’ve finally turned the stories in your head into words on paper. Congratulations—that’s no small feat! Now, with your manuscript in hand, you’re beginning to see the exciting possibility of becoming a published author.

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Books and a cup of coffee on a desk with the title of the article.

So, you’ve finally turned the stories in your head into words on paper. Congratulations—that’s no small feat!

Now, with your manuscript in hand, you’re beginning to see the exciting possibility of becoming a published author.

But what’s next?

Should you go the traditional route with a publishing house, where they’ll handle production, distribution, and marketing in exchange for a larger share of the profits? Or do you explore alternative paths?

Wherever you’re leaning, here are three actionable steps to get you closer to seeing your book in readers’ hands.

Key Steps in Traditional Publishing

If you’re dreaming of seeing your book on bookstore shelves, traditional publishing might be the path for you.

While it’s a competitive process, understanding the key steps can help you navigate it with confidence.

1. Prepare Your Manuscript (Your Unpublished Work)

Before you can pitch your book, it needs to be in top shape:

  • Polish Your Manuscript: Re-read and edit thoroughly. Look for inconsistencies, plot holes, or areas to tighten.
  • Gather Feedback: Share your work with trusted readers or a critique group for fresh perspectives.
  • Consider Professional Editing: If self-editing feels daunting, hire an editor to elevate your manuscript.
  • Create Supporting Materials: Write a compelling summary of your book and a chapter-by-chapter outline to showcase your vision.

2. Find a Literary Agent

A literary agent is your advocate in the publishing world, and finding the right one is crucial:

  • Research Agents: Use directories and resources like QueryTracker (free) and Publishers Marketplace (paid) to find agents who specialize in your genre.
  • Craft a Query Letter: For fiction, write a personalized query letter that highlights your book’s unique appeal.
  • Prepare a Proposal for Non-Fiction: For non-fiction works, develop an engaging proposal that convinces publishers of your book’s value.
  • Follow Submission Guidelines: Pay close attention to each agent’s or publisher’s specific requirements to avoid unnecessary rejection.

3. Dive into the Publishing Journey

Congratulations—your manuscript has been accepted! Here’s what comes next:

  • Contract Negotiation: If you have an agent, they’ll handle this. If not, research and negotiate carefully to secure fair royalties (typically 7.5%–15%).
  • Editorial Development: Collaborate with a developmental editor to refine the story structure and narrative voice.
  • Design and Formatting: A stunning cover and professional interior layout will make your book stand out and enhance the reader experience.
  • Marketing and Promotion: Work with your publisher to build excitement around your book and reach your target audience.
  • Distribution: The publisher will coordinate with retailers and wholesalers to get your book on shelves and online. The initial print run will depend on sales projections.

Conclusion

Breaking into the publishing world is no small feat—traditional publishers accept only about 1% of manuscripts.

But persistence pays off, as J.K. Rowling’s journey proves. Her now-famous series was initially rejected by major publishers before landing a contract.

Traditional publishing offers perks like professional editing, marketing support, and industry credibility, but it also comes with challenges like longer timelines and less creative control.

Whichever path you choose—traditional or otherwise—requires thoughtful research and planning.

Ultimately, your decision should align with your goals, resources, and vision for your book.

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to turning your manuscript into a published masterpiece. Ready to take the leap?✿

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]]> 2019 How to Write Technical Documents Everyone Can Understand: 5 Tips https://morganediting.com/five-ways-to-make-technical-documents-inclusive/ Sat, 30 Nov 2024 07:07:28 +0000 https://morganediting.com/?p=1978 Creating a document that improves usability and is understood by everyone, including people with disabilities, makes it inclusive. Incorporating principles of inclusion reaches more of your audience and upgrades the user experience for all.

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Image of people with diverse abilities.

Creating a document that improves usability and is understood by everyone, including people with disabilities, makes it inclusive. Incorporating principles of inclusion reaches more of your audience and upgrades the user experience for all.

Here are five ways to make your technical documents inclusive:

  1. Write in clear, simple sentences without jargon: This approach helps everyone understand, including non-native speakers, people with cognitive disabilities, and those with different reading skills. Use short, active sentences and avoid idioms or slang. Be specific and direct.

Tip: Cater to various reading levels by avoiding overly complex vocabulary.

  1. Provide alternative text for images and graphics: A written description of an image or graphic is crucial for making content understandable to users who rely on screen readers. Screen readers use alt text to describe images to visually impaired users. Also, if an image fails to load, alt text provides additional context for readers. 

Tip: Be concise but descriptive, e.g., “Line graph showing a 20% sales increase from Q1 to Q4.“

  1. Ensure Screen Reader Compatibility: Ensuring that technical documents are compatible with screen readers and other assistive technologies like voice recognition software, makes the content easy to understand for everyone. Accessibility laws, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Accessible Canada Act mandate screen-reader compatibility. 

Tip: Use specific text for hyperlinks, e.g., “Download the User Guide” instead of generic text like “Click here.” 

  1. Structure Content for Easy Navigation: Create clear headings, subheadings, and numbered or bulleted lists to make the information scannable. Organizing content into smaller, logical sections makes it easier to follow and enhances readability. Readers can find and understand information quickly.

Tip: Use consistent formatting for headings, fonts, and spacing; use hierarchical headings to organize content (e.g., H1 for main titles, H2 for subheadings).

  1. Offer Multiple Formats: Offer documents in various formats, such as PDFs with screen reader compatibility, audio versions, or braille options. This supports diverse user preferences such as visual learners preferring infographics or auditory learners relying on audio versions. 

Tip: Provide download links for each format in a central location. The same instruction manual should have identical headings and steps in each format.

Conclusion

Accessible documents demonstrate respect for diversity and empower all users to engage with the content fully. By following accessibility guidelines and using the right tools, writers can craft content that is both inclusive and enriching, improving the experience for every reader.✿

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]]> 1978 7 Tips to Master the Craft of Freelance Writing https://morganediting.com/7-tips-to-master-the-craft-of-freelance-writing/ Sun, 13 Oct 2024 23:39:24 +0000 https://morganediting.com/?p=1890 Freelance writing can be a rewarding career, offering flexibility and creative freedom. However, success in this field often depends on developing and maintaining effective writing habits. If you’re new to freelancing or looking to elevate your writing career, adopting these habits can help you thrive in the competitive world of freelance writing.

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A typewriter on a desk with paper and a cup of coffee.

Introduction:

Freelance writing can be a rewarding career, offering flexibility and creative freedom. However, success in this field often depends on developing and maintaining effective writing habits. If you’re new to freelancing or looking to elevate your writing career, adopting these habits can help you thrive in the competitive world of freelance writing.

1. Create a Dedicated Workspace:

A desk and chair with a lamp and laptop on the desk.

Many successful writers have a specific area designated for their work, whether it’s a home office or a favorite spot in a local café. 

  • A dedicated workspace helps minimize distractions and signals to your brain that it’s time to focus on work.
  • Having a separate work area allows you to “leave” work at the end of the day, creating a clear boundary between professional and personal life.
  • If you can’t dedicate an entire room, even a specific corner of your living space can serve as your “office.” Make it comfortable and inspiring.

Tip for Novices: Eliminate distractions like social media by using website blockers like Freedom or StayFocusd during your writing sessions.

2. Set Clear Daily Goals:

Close-up of a colorful calendar.

Successful freelancers often start their day by outlining specific, achievable goals for their writing.

  • Clear goals provide direction and motivation, helping you stay focused and track your progress.
  • Accomplishing daily goals allows you to end your workday with a sense of achievement, reducing work-related stress during personal time.
  • Start with small, manageable goals. For example, aim to write 500 words or complete one section of an article each day.

Tip for Novices: Use project management tools like Trello or Asana to track your assignments.

3. Practice Regular Freewriting:

Close-up of a hand writing on a page.

Many accomplished writers engage in freewriting exercises to overcome writer’s block and generate new ideas.

  • Freewriting helps clear your mind, spark creativity, and can serve as a warm-up before tackling main projects.
  • This practice can be a form of mental self-care, reducing stress and improving overall well-being.
  • Set aside 10-15 minutes each day for freewriting. Write without stopping or editing, focusing on quantity over quality.

Tip for Novices: Use a freewriting tool like FocusWriter or OmmWriter to help you focus on your writing without interruptions.

4. Embrace the Pomodoro Technique:

A timer on a desk.

The Pomodoro Technique, which involves working in focused 25-minute intervals followed by short breaks, is popular among many successful writers.

  • This method helps maintain high levels of focus and prevents burnout during long writing sessions.
  • Regular breaks encourage you to step away from work, reducing eye strain and mental fatigue.
  • Try using a Pomodoro timer app to help you stick to this technique. Adjust the work/break intervals as needed to find what works best for you.

Tip for Novices: Schedule your day by tasks, prioritizing urgent assignments early to avoid last-minute stress.

5. Develop a Personal Editorial Process:

A colorful opened notebook.

Experienced writers often have a systematic approach to editing and polishing their work.

  • A structured editing process helps improve the quality of your work while saving time in the long run.
  • Confidence in your editing skills can reduce work-related stress and the need for extensive revisions.
  • Create a checklist for self-editing, including items like checking for clarity, eliminating redundancies, and proofreading for grammar and spelling.

Tip for Novices: Tools like Slick Write and Grammarly are great for self-editing.

6. Continually Educate Yourself:

A young man sitting at a desk in front of a laptop surrounded by books.

Successful freelance writers are often avid readers and lifelong learners in their niche areas.

  • Staying informed helps you write more authoritatively and efficiently on various topics.
  • Learning can be enjoyable and fulfilling, blurring the line between work and personal interest.
  • Dedicate time each week to read industry publications, take online courses, or attend webinars related to your writing niches.

Tip for Novices: You can also seek feedback from more experienced writers or clients to improve your writing style.

7. Network and Collaborate:

A smiling group of people in conversion.

Successful freelancers often maintain connections with other writers and industry professionals.

  • Networking can lead to new opportunities, collaborations, and valuable feedback on your work.
  • Building professional relationships can provide a sense of community in what can sometimes be an isolating career.
  • Join online writing groups, attend industry events, and reach out to other writers in your niche for virtual coffee chats.

Tip for Novices: Building relationships can help you learn about opportunities you may not have discovered on your own.

Conclusion:

Developing these habits takes time and persistence, but the payoff in terms of productivity and work-life balance is substantial. Adapt these habits to fit your unique style and circumstances. For novices, it’s all about starting small. Gradually incorporate these habits into your routine, and with time, they will become second nature, helping you grow into a successful freelance writer.✿

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]]> 1890 Helen Allingham, R.W.S. https://morganediting.com/helen-allingham-r-w-s/ Tue, 08 Oct 2024 02:19:21 +0000 https://morganediting.com/?p=1833 Watercolour art has a long history, and from the 18th century onward, it was dominated by the British.

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A black and white photo of Helen Allingham seated in a chair.
Photograph of Helen Allingham in 1903

Watercolour art has a long history, and from the 18th century onward, it was dominated by the British.

In 1890 Britain accepted its first female member to the Royal Watercolour Society, Helen Allingham (1848-1926).

Her encouragement came from her maternal grandmother and aunt,  artists in their time.

Helen Allingham (nee Paterson) was an influential watercolourist and illustrator who inspired the likes of Vincent van Gogh.  

 

Thanks to her contributions to The Graphic, a British weekly illustrated newspaper respected in the art community and circulated throughout the British Empire, her work was seen by up-and-coming artists and professionals alike.

In 1874, when she was 25, Allingham was commissioned to produce 12 illustrations for the novel Far from the Madding Crowd by Thomas Hardy which appeared as a monthly serial in Cornhill Magazine.

Also at 25, she married 50-year-old William Allingham, an Irish poet and editor with whom she lived 15 years before he passed away in 1889. At 41, she was a widow with three young children to support which caused her to increase the production of her watercolour works.

What is Helen Allingham Known For?

The scenic countryside – cottages, gardens, and farmhouses. These are what people associate with the artist Helen Allingham. 

She started painting her surroundings in southeastern England, specifically, Surrey and Sussex. Her landscape locations were further expanded to include other parts of England and Italy.

A woman walks by a cottage on a country road with three geese ahead.
Irish Cottage

Irish Cottage, By the Cottage Gate, The Saucer of Milk, and A Cottage with Sunflowers at Peaslake are but a few of her notable works, in addition to her many illustrations.

She remained active in the art world until her death in 1926.✿

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]]> 1833 Leave the Job, Find the Calling – Vincent van Gogh https://morganediting.com/leave-the-job-find-the-calling-vincent-van-gogh/ https://morganediting.com/leave-the-job-find-the-calling-vincent-van-gogh/#comments Mon, 16 Sep 2024 22:52:49 +0000 https://morganediting.com/?p=1736 “Failure is the key to success; each mistake teaches us something.”
― Morihei Ueshiba

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“Failure is the key to success; each mistake teaches us something.”

― Morihei Ueshiba

self portrait vincent van gogh 1877
Vincent van Gogh, Self-portrait, 1877

Before settling on his true vocation, Vincent Willem van Gogh (1853-1890) had tried his hand at being an art dealer, an educator, a bookseller, and even a lay preacher. 

According to the definition, an art dealer represents collectors, galleries, and institutions in the purchase and sale of works of art, which requires the capacity to negotiate and develop contacts. 

Shy and reserved, as van Gogh was said to be quite often, does not seem like the type of person who should be an art dealer.

But at 16, with the help of his uncle, van Gogh became an apprentice art dealer at Goupil & Cie. He showed promise and continued in that profession.

After completing his apprenticeship, van Gogh was transferred from Paris to the London branch. Despite his enthusiastic start, he found the work of an art dealer tiresome. Though he appreciated the art, he wasn’t fond of the business.

Sadly, his personal life would fare no better than his professional. In London, he took a romantic interest in his landlady’s daughter but that interest was not returned. This would become a pattern in his short life – unrequited love. As he became more withdrawn, his religious zeal grew.

The Road to Success

At 23, van Gogh parted ways with Goupil & Cie and tried his hand at teaching. 

He took an unpaid teaching job in exchange for room and board before landing a second teaching job which paid a small wage. His second employment also allowed him to preach a few sermons under the guidance of Reverend Slade-Jones. When he didn’t find fulfillment in teaching, he left that vocation to become a bookseller. 

It was during that time as a bookseller he felt the resurgent call to be a preacher. However, unable to fulfill the educational requirements of seminary, he eventually took on a missionary role.

At each juncture, van Gogh found success amid the defeat. His takeaways shaped his ultimate calling.

As an art dealer, van Gogh learned about art through much reading. He was exposed to the business of art, and visited famous galleries that housed works he admired.

He later painted Noon: Rest from Work in 1890, inspired by Jean-François Millet who often painted peasants.  

As an educator, van Gogh was tasked with teaching young boys everything from math and language to Bible study and ensuring their attendance at church. He lived in Ramsgate and Isleworth, places which were later featured in his sketches.

At the urging of his father, van Gogh became a bookseller. He worked in Dordrecht, a place he also sketched in Windmills near Dordrecht (1881). After a few months as a bookseller, it was clear it wasn’t for him. 

He neither knew the book trade nor was he interested in learning it. Instead of his duties, he translated Bible passages from Dutch to German, French, and English. He still had hopes of becoming a preacher, like his father. 

Getting the credentials to become an ordained minister proved difficult. After failing the university entrance exam, he took a missionary course but failed that as well. In a last-ditch effort not to disappoint his parents, he found work as a lay preacher, this time, in the Borinage, a coal-mining region in Belgium. 

But his congregation wasn’t receptive to him, nor was he to them. Van Gogh, dismissed from his post and again unemployed, went home. His later paintings would capture the theme of religion in such works as Still Life with Bible (1885) and The Church at Auvers (1890).

The Calling

On the advice of this brother, Theo, Vincent stepped into his calling. After leaving the Borinage, Vincent threw himself into his art. He drew images of the locals, sketched the deprivation he had seen, tapped into the sadness and depression he felt from unrequited love, and resolved to bring comfort to humanity through his art.

Van Gogh’s failures in vocation and love contributed to his one-year stint at a mental institution. Years earlier in a letter to his friend, he wrote, “I want to paint what I feel and feel what I paint.”

During his stay at the Saint-Paul Asylum in southern France he created iconic paintings such as Starry Night (1889), Lilac Bush (1889), and Irises (1889). He spoke through the brush strokes, through the colors.

His artistic career spanned 10 years (1880-1890) and produced more than 2,000 works of art – over 300 paintings in his final two years. During his lifetime, van Gogh didn’t sell many of his paintings. In death, his works became legendary.  

Regarded among the greatest and most influential painters in Western art, his paintings are replicated in prints, tapestries, and various formats as unique gifts.

“Failure is a bend in the road, not the end of the road. Learn from failure and keep moving forward.”

― Roy T. Bennett

(Sources: Van Gogh: The Life by Steven Naifeh and Gregory White Smith; Wikipedia.)✿

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