Essential Steps Before Hiring an Editor
Hiring a professional editor is an important part of the publishing process, but before you hand your manuscript over, some necessary groundwork should be completed. By preparing your manuscript properly, authors ensure the editing process is efficient, cost-effective, and productive. Here are some critical steps to consider before sending your work to an editor. (These come from my own experience working with debut authors and writers who are new to self-publishing.)
1. Self-Editing
Before seeking professional help, revise your manuscript yourself. This step allows you to address obvious errors and refine your ideas. I often see social media posts (usually on writer/author Facebook groups) to the effect of: "I just finished writing my first draft. That means I'm ready for an editor, right? How do I find an editor?"
If you've just finished your first draft, the next step is not to hire an editor. Some writers may think they need to hire an editor right away, but this is usually because they don't know how to go about the self-editing process.
So what is self-editing or revision? It's reading through your manuscript (usually several times) and making changes at the macro level (structure, flow, expanding scenes, deleting scenes, adding in new scenes, making sure character and theme development are happening, etc.) and the micro level (checking grammar, punctuation, etc. and consistency of names, descriptions, timelines, etc.). There are tons of resources in the form of books, blogs, podcasts, and more that can provide specific help for the writing, revising, and drafting process.
Authors take on revision in different ways. Sometimes they work on a word processor. They might use other software to help identify issues in their narrative (such as Plottr), or they might print out their book and read it aloud, marking it up and taking notes manually. There isn't a wrong or right way to revise as long as you are making changes to the manuscript that support the narrative and your goals.
2. Solicit Outside Feedback
Beta readers—readers who can provide reader reactions and point out inconsistencies or big-picture issues within the narrative—can provide valuable insights. They’ll help you gauge the clarity, engagement, and emotional resonance of your manuscript. A beta reader could be someone you hire (though many read for free), but it could also be a family member, friend, or someone from a writing or critique group. A beta reader doesn't need to have any kind of technical training, but it does help to find someone who reads regularly in your genre. Beta readers can help guide your revision/self-editing. Address any significant issues they point out before moving on to professional editing.
3. Understanding Your Editing & Publishing Goals
Not all editing is the same. Once you've drafted to your heart's content, determine what type of editing your manuscript needs:
Developmental Editing: Focuses on big-picture elements like plot, structure, and pacing.
Line Editing: Refines sentence structure, flow, and tone.
Copyediting: Addresses grammar, punctuation, and stylistic consistency.
Proofreading: A final check for typos and formatting issues.
Research editors who offer the type of editing you're looking for and then communicate your expectations clearly so the editor knows where to focus their efforts.
4. Formatting Your Manuscript Properly
A well-formatted manuscript makes your editor’s job easier. Follow these basic guidelines:
Use a standard, readable font (e.g., Times New Roman or Arial, 12 pt).
Double-space the text for easy annotation.
Include page numbers and consistent chapter headings.
Remove unnecessary formatting, such as excessive bolding, italics, or fancy fonts.
Word documents are by far the industry standard for all forms of publishing. Using a Word document ensures that edits and comments carry over, that your document is formatted properly, and that your work remains secure.
5. Preparing Your Style Preferences
You don't need to use or have a subscription to the Chicago Manual of Style (the style guide typically used for fiction publishing in the US), but you might take notes during self-editing about any special spellings of names or places; character or setting descriptions; and whether you have any preferences regarding specific style rules, like the Oxford comma. Professional editors will ask for your preferences regarding the more flexible style/grammar aspects of editing.
6. Budgeting for Editing Costs
Professional editing is an investment. Research typical rates for the type of editing you need and plan your budget accordingly. Knowing your manuscript’s word count will help you estimate costs. Don’t forget to factor in potential revisions after the first round of edits.
7. Being Open to Feedback
Finally, prepare yourself emotionally for constructive criticism. Editors aren’t there to tear down your work; they’re your partners in making it shine. Approach the process with a growth mindset, being ready to refine your manuscript into its best possible version.
Preparing your manuscript before hiring an editor saves time and money while ensuring a smoother editing process. By self-editing, gathering feedback, and understanding your goals, you create a strong foundation for collaboration. Remember, the better prepared your manuscript, the more impactful the editor’s contributions will be.
Your editor isn’t just polishing your words—they’re helping you bring your vision to life. Make the most of their expertise by setting the stage for a productive partnership.
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