Why should I hire you?

 

In addition to my skills as an editor, I possess an extensive knowledge of the industry. I have a number of  resources at my disposal and can provide you with coaching and input on the publishing process, whether you plan to query agents or self-publish. I also provide manuscript copies, ISBNs, and barcodes at a significant discount should you require them.

 

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What are the types of editing?

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This can be quite confusing, as sources often name and define them differently, and there is frequent overlap between the styles. Allow me to clarify how I characterize them for our purposes:

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-beta reading: once you've completed your first round of revisions, beta reading should be the next step of your process. It's a perfect opportunity to get input on your project from friends, loved ones, fans of your previous works, your favorite barista at the coffee shop, the UPS delivery driver... anyone who is willing to take the time to read your masterpiece and provide you with feedback. Whether you have three readers, a dozen, or fifty, there's one problem with betas that are part of your usual orbit. They're not always entirely objective for fear of hurting your feelings. They may point out some obvious flaws, but they're often reluctant to provide the kinds of unbiased opinions that can bring your manuscript to the next level. You need at least one neutral reader whose sole goal is to make your work better by providing real, dispassionate, and sometimes raw input while still focusing on the strengths of your manuscript.

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-developmental editing: as the name implies, this type of editing is largely centered on the creative aspects and evolution      of a manuscript. Often, though not always, developmental editing takes place early in the writing process and typically        requires much in the way of collaborative brainstorming between author and editor. Main focuses are story arc, plot              (and subplots), character development, perspective and POV, pacing, style, and the like.

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-content/substantive editing: a global look at the project to identify issues with structure, style, theme, pacing, syntax,            continuity, passive vs. active tense, “showing vs. telling,” etc. Content editing often involves some measure of light              research and substantiation of facts. A fair amount of revising and rewriting is often necessary in a content edit.

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-copy/line editing: your copy editor will review your manuscript for grammar, spelling, proper use of numerals,                    capitalization, punctuation, verb tense, voice and tone, and formatting. Your copy editor will also assure consistency  throughout and (if necessary) adherence to a specific style guide such as the Chicago Manual of Style or APA.

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-proofreading: a thorough review of the final draft(s) for any remaining errors and consistency concerns that may have          escaped notice in any of the previous steps. This is typically the last line of defense and the final step of the writing              process.

 

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How do you determine what kind of editing is needed?

 

For the most part, this comes down to how much actual writing, restructuring, and revising I anticipate your project will require. Line editing is more correction based, focusing on the areas listed in the above definition. If I feel that there will be a significant amount of rewriting (or drafting suggestions for you), then I will usually categorize that as content editing. 

 

 

How do you determine page/word count?

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Your original estimate is based on either the word count (preferred) or the page count you provided. The industry standard is 250 words/page, though that tends to fluctuate depending on dialogue and other factors. Ultimately, your word count will determine your final contracted price, which will typically be a bit less than the per-page prices listed above.

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How do I know how much work my manuscript needs?

 

Without seeing your project, it's difficult to say. I’ll be happy to provide you an initial estimate based on word/page count for the type of editing you request. At some point in the process, I will request a random sample chapter from the manuscript, which will allow me to more precisely gauge the amount of work needed. The final cost will be provided at that time.

 

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How can I minimize my costs?

 

While not foolproof, the more times a manuscript has been read and revised, the lower the editing costs are likely to be. Enlist beta readers and get as much feedback as possible. Rewrite accordingly.

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Do you provide developmental editing?

 

Though I’ll likely give some developmental advice within a content edit, I don’t often take on projects in their early stages. That said, feel free to send me an inquiry, and we can discuss it. My own excellent developmental editor, Alida Winternheimer, may also be available to assist you.

 

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I need a beta reader. Can you help me out?

 

Sure! There are few things more valuable than some truly objective insight. As long as you’re not sending a 400+ page epic saga my way, I’ll beta read and provide you with my thoughts and suggestions for $100. Shoot me a request.

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