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The Different Types of Editing

Editing breaks down into several levels, although there can be a lot of overlap. In traditional publishing, each type of edit is a separate process. But since the cost of these several editing passes can be prohibitive for indie authors, what most indies require is an editor with multiple skills capable of giving them the best result in a single, detailed edit. This is what I refer to as the "Single Edit Solution."

Single Edit Solution (SES): full copyediting plus selective line editing, as well as some developmental guidance where needed. In the case of novels, I include a provision for post-edit checking of up to 2k words of rewritten material at no additional cost. For all rates click here.

Here are some definitions of the different types of text editing:

Developmental or Comprehensive Editing: this first editing pass of a manuscript will typically address macro issues like structure, plot and character arcs, plot logic, passages and scenes that aren’t working well, pacing, tone, etc. In a developmental edit, the editor makes specific recommendations and offers detailed solutions to the issues identified.

Line Editing: a more granular edit whose aim is to improve the flow, pacing, polish, and overall readability of the work. Line editing addresses, among much else, dialogue, style, grammar, tense, and syntax issues. The editor responsible for this stage will typically help with revising and rewording sentences and paragraphs that need improvement, always in keeping with the author's voice and style.

Copyediting: the pre-final pass through a ms. before proofreading, copyediting looks at the fine detail, including punctuation, consistency, capitalization, formatting, and anything missed at the line editing stage. The copyeditor is also responsible for fact-checking.

Other Services

Proofreading: strictly limited to checking spelling, punctuation, capitalization, syntax, grammar, verb tense, and consistency in formatting, as well as descriptions of character, etc. Proofreading is usually the final step before a document goes to print.

Critique: a detailed evaluation of the strengths and weaknesses of your work from the reader's perspective. Critique covers many aspects of the work, including setting, character, plot, dialogue, pacing, overall narrative strategy, prose style, and more.

Print Book Formatting: I offer full print formatting and design services to take your work from raw manuscript to a professionally-presented and attractive book interior ready for upload to KDP print or Ingram Spark for printing and distribution.

Phone/Video/Email support: Personalized support with all aspects of the self-publishing process, from simple KDP upload guidance/walkthrough to full writing project management. Questions on all aspects of indie publishing. Writing coach and mentor on ad hoc or structured basis.

Professional Standards

As an experienced professional, I take your deadlines very seriously. Clear and honest communication, as well as full transparency is a priority for me, and I make a point of keeping my clients updated on project status, and being fully responsive to their needs and concerns.

Terms of Business

A simple, clear, and binding contract to be signed by both parties is issued for each project.
My standard terms are 50% of my fee directly upon commission/signing, and 50% full balance immediately prior to delivery of edited manuscript; fees and terms of contract are non-negotiable.
Payment via Zelle preferred; 3% surcharge if using PayPal.