01
After major structural edits
Run checks after moving, cutting, combining, or adding scenes and chapters.
Guide
When to run manuscript continuity checks
Choose the best revision moments for running timeline, character, structure, and reference checks.
Short version
What matters most
Continuity checks are most useful after the draft has changed enough to create risk, but before late-stage polish makes bigger fixes expensive.
- Do not wait until proofreading if the draft still has story logic risk.
- Use a focused run when you only changed one part of the book.
- Use a broader run after big revisions.
Steps
Prepare the manuscript
Use these steps before running a Wise Wombat continuity assessment.
02
Before beta readers
Clear obvious contradictions so human readers can focus on story experience.
03
Before copyedit
Resolve story logic before sentence-level polish begins.
04
After large continuity fixes
Run another pass when a fix changes timing, motive, location, or relationship state elsewhere.
FAQ
Common questions
Format and workflow decisions are easier when the goal is clear: a readable current manuscript in the intended order.
Should I run checks on a first draft?
Usually wait until the manuscript is coherent enough that findings will be actionable.
Should I run checks after every edit?
No. Save full passes for meaningful revisions, and rerun when changes may affect continuity.