You tweak a sentence. Then a paragraph. You reconsider the structure – again. And suddenly, what started as “just one last read-through” has turned into version 17 of your thesis, journal submission, or grant application. Sound familiar?

Editing is essential. But endless editing? That’s self-doubt wearing a productivity badge.

At Deconvolution, we help researchers build confidence by recognising the difference between refinement and retreat. Here’s how to tell it’s time to hit submit:

1. You’ve Met the Brief – Fully

Not perfectly. Not beyond what’s expected. Just fully. You’ve answered the question, hit the word count, and fulfilled the purpose. If you’re fiddling with synonyms rather than substance, you’re likely done.

2. Your Changes Are Becoming Reversible

If you’re swapping “vital” for “critical” and then back again, it’s time to stop. That’s the sign of a finished piece, not a flawed one.

3. Feedback Has Been Addressed

If peers, supervisors, or reviewers have seen your work and you’ve thoughtfully incorporated their feedback, trust the process. You don’t need to anticipate every future comment.

4. You’re Editing to Delay, Not Improve

Be honest with yourself: Are you tweaking because you fear rejection or judgment? That’s human. But the solution isn’t another revision, it’s a deep breath and a bold click on “Submit.”

Every piece of writing could be improved. But at some point, submitting isn’t giving up, it’s letting your work breathe.

If you’re circling the final draft but can’t quite let go, Deconvolution offers last-look feedback with the goal of clarity, not perfection. Let’s get it over the line – together.