Editing is like a collaboration between the writer and the editor. The writer submits a manuscript, thesis, or dissertation, book chapter, or other written document to be evaluated. An editor makes suggestions based on the type of editing requested, and sends back the manuscript to the writer for revisions.
There are different types of editing that should occur at particular points during the writing process and depending on the requirements of the client. A first draft can be given a structural or development edit or, for less money and a faster turnaround, an editorial assessment can be done. After revisions, and when a manuscript is almost ready to be submitted for publication, a line or copyedit should be done. The last step before publication should be proofreading.
FAQ
Will an editor write for me?
No, editors do not write chapters of your manuscript, thesis or dissertation. We offer suggestions for improvements using the Track Changes feature in Microsoft Word or Suggestion mode in Google Docs.
Will my manuscript be ready for submission when the editor is finished?
No, we will add in-line comments and suggestions which you will need to review and approve. Depending on the length of the manuscript and the number of hours you dedicate to this work, it could take a few days to complete this task. If the service was a developmental or structural edit, the manuscript may require significant revisions. It will also need to be line or copyedited and proofread prior to submitting for publication.
What are the different types of editing?
- DEVELOPMENTAL – focuses on the elaboration of ideas, an analysis of story elements, and ensures that writing is clear and engaging.
- STRUCTURAL – looks at the organization, structure, and coherence of a work. It focuses on logic and flow as well as tone and style with regard to the purpose and intended audience.
- LINE EDITING – focuses on style such as word choices, sentence length and structure.
- COPY EDITING – looks at mechanics such as grammar, syntax, and consistency.
- PROOFREADING – corrects spelling, punctuation, typographical errors and inconsistent formatting.
How long does editing take?
It depends on the type of editing and the number of words in the manuscript. Structural and developmental editing can take a month or longer. Proofreading can be done in a few days to a week. Line and copy editing usually take a couple of weeks.
How much does editing cost?
This depends on the type of editing and the length of the manuscript. Some editors charge by the word. Some by the page. Others charge by the word. Structural and developmental editing are more involved and can cost upwards of a thousand dollars. Line and copy editing as well as proofreading will be in the hundreds.
I offer the following services. For more information about what’s included, go to Services.
DEVELOPMENTAL EDITING
$0.04 PER WORD
STRUCTURAL EDITING
$0.04 PER WORD
EDITORIAL ASSESSMENT
$0.02 PER WORD
Angela di Gualco 