I mentioned some time ago in one of the workshops checklists I use to run through and edit/fix/improve my writing.

Editor's checklist:

- is every character and every place adequately and uniquely described?

- in these descriptions, do you use descriptive ("fat" or "$10") or specific ("lean") words? You want to use specific detail only.

- search for -- and immediately destroy -- cliches.

- Look for unneccesary words and word multiples.

I borrowed this one from an article Lisa Dale published.

Scene Craft Checklist: Below is a checklist to help writers craft stronger scenes in their fiction or nonfiction (novels, memoirs, short stories, essays, or other creative prose).

• Does the scene begin on a strong note?
• Does your scene have a strong setting that supports the action? Do the characters interact meaningfully with the setting?
• Do you use the five senses to drive home the physical details of the scene and make it come alive?
• Does the description convey the mood via focus and language choice? Is the mood consistent with the action?
• Is there strong characterization through present action, with only the most necessary backstory?
• Are the characters doing something to move the action forward in the narrative present?
• Is the point of view carefully controlled and consistent-no "head-hopping"?
• If there are POV changes, is the reader prepared for such shifts with scene breaks?
• Is there emphasis on action over summary?
• Is the dialogue believable? Does each character speak in a unique voice? Is there a good balance of dialogue, internal monologue, description, and summary?
• Does the scene have one main plot point? Is that plot point moved forward successfully and clearly?
• Are minor plot points kept to a minimum?
• Is the scene focused (have you taken pains to make sure that description, dialogue, setting, characterization, summary, and all other elements don't veer off course away from the main plot)?
• Does the resolution reinforce the mood? Does the resolution of the scene imply further action; Does this scene lead into another scene in order to keep the action moving forward?
• Does the scene raise questions, deepen conflict, or otherwise lead by pointing to a forthcoming scene? Is your scene "undeletable" so that if you took it out, the whole plot would crumble?
• Does the scene end on a strong note?
• Do a visual check. If the scene is strong, you'll have a balance of "white space" and "gray space" with a variety of dialogue, description, and plenty of paragraph breaks-all of which should be visible to a reader who is just skimming the pages.

Let's add whatever good stuff we can think of and really use the checklists. It can save a lot of time and struggle trying to figure out what's not working, and a lot of these tips add tons of life to a piece.