Self-critiquing is a very valuable skill to develop. However it's also very difficult to think neutrally about something you've written yourself. Many writers fall into one of two groups when re-reading their manuscript: either being too soft on their flaws and thinking everything they've put down on paper is perfect as it is; or being overly critical, sometimes to the point of deleting much of their work in frustration.

Finding a balance is important, because there's little point trying to edit your own work if you're not viewing it from a clear and honest perspective. Thankfully, critical reading, even of your own work, can improve with practice. Also, the more you write, the more relaxed and confident you become about the reading and editing process.

What does it mean to "critique"?

The words "critical" and "criticism" sometimes have negative connotations, and by extension, so does the word "critique". Some people prefer to use words like "review", "comment", "assess", "appraise", or "report on" when they talk about critiquing, to soften the "criticism" aspect of it. Bear these alternative terms in mind when you look at your own work, as a different word can sometimes alter your perspective a little.

Critiquing a manuscript involves a number of aspects, some of which are opposites. These include checking for errors such as spelling, typos, and factual or continuity mistakes; checking for word usage - anything that jars you as you read; and also reading for enjoyment - this is where you note your impressions pretending you're a "reader" reading the passage for the first time.

In many instances you can critique more effectively by reading the text more than once, splitting opposing tasks into separate sessions. For example, it can be difficult to cover critical tasks such as checking for errors in the same session as reading the text to find the parts that you enjoy the most.

Distancing yourself

Ideally, you need to distance yourself from your text as much as possible. The best way to do this is to put the manuscript aside for as long as you can - several weeks if possible. Try not to think about the story and characters while your work is "on ice".

When you're ready to read, start with a straight read through from beginning to end, as if you're reading any other novel - but keep a notebook or computer file open at hand for your notes. Make brief corrections if you spot them, and make quick notes if you think of something to change or check, and also record your thoughts about the plot and characters as you're reading. Most important for your own self esteem is to make a comment whenever you really like something. These points can help later on if you become overly critical.

Editing and revising

After the first reading comes the proofread and edit phase. Give yourself another few weeks away from your manuscript before you tackle this stage. Then read through your work very carefully, looking up any word you're not sure about for correct spelling and usage. Challenge yourself on any clichés that you find, and on overused and excessive modifiers.

Many word processing programs like MS Word have features for Tracking the Changes you make (in Word: Tools, Track Changes). You can see the changes you've made, read versions of your altered manuscript, and also compare documents. These features may or may not work for you, but it's worth experimenting with different options.

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For more help developing your skills for reviewing your own work, try these books:
Self-Editing for Fiction Writers, Second Edition : How to Edit Yourself Into Print by Renni Browne and Dave King
Revision : A Creative Approach to Writing and Rewriting Fiction by David Michael Kaplan