How
does manuscript editing work?
My
usual editing process is to write my edits, suggestions, and
comments directly onto the client's manuscript hard copy, then
prepare a written report of my feedback. I also welcome a preliminary
phone call to get acquainted before we start working together,
and/or a brief, follow-up call from clients (also at no charge)
if any further clarification is needed.
Do
you work with a contract?
I
have a sample contract you can review -- it's fairly simple and
straightforward, but my clients (and I!) have found it helpful.
My usual practice is to invite clients to give me their input
on the agreement -- for instance, any additional issues they'd
like to see covered -- since it's my goal to work under mutually
agreeable conditions.
What's
the timeframe for an editing job?
My
own experience and speaking with other editors in the Northwest
Independent Editor's Guild indicate that the editing process
can range from about 3 to 8 pages per hour. I've found that for
most of my editing projects, I generally work through about 6
to 7 double-spaced pages per hour, and that includes an in-depth
substantive and copy edit, and a thorough second review/reading.
The editing may go a little slower the first few chapters, then
as the flow of the project becomes apparent, generally speeds
up. I'm very comfortable working with a chapter (or a section
of your manuscript) at a time.
What's
the difference between a substantive edit and copy edit? I've
also heard of developmental editing… what's that?
Here's
a handout the Northwest Independent
Editor's Guild has created, that should clarify all the various
levels of editing.
How
about the cost?
Since
I bill by the hour, once I begin the editing process, it's easier
to judge how fast it will go. Once the actual editing is complete,
the report takes another 1 to 3 hours. All in all, the costs
related to working with an editor depends on the length of your
manuscript and what depth of feedback you're looking for.
Do
you accept jobs via e-mail?
As
far as sending a manuscript hard copy via snail mail, versus
e-mail... Most professional editors agree that you can't really
get a sense of a piece of writing on a computer screen -- in
fact, studies indicate a reader can take in or comprehend only
about 50% of the material on-screen. So that's why I prefer to
work off hard copies. Also, if you're going to submit to literary
agents and editors, almost all of them prefer manuscripts sent
by mail.
How
do I choose an editor?
I'd
suggest phoning/e-mailing several that work on manuscripts in
your particular genre. Get to know the editor a little via e-mail
or a phone interview to see if you're a match as far as outlook,
writing approach and compatibility. Mutual trust is crucial.
Also, go with your "gut" -- choose someone who sounds
and feels right to you. Each editor is different, and brings
different strengths to a project. And don't hesitate to ask for
references!
Do
I need to have my project completely finished before I work with
an editor?
Once
you do choose an editor, I'd suggest having the first portion
of your manuscript edited -- for example, the first two or three
chapters, as opposed to the entire book. You can then see how
helpful or valuable the particularly editor is for your project
before going any further. Also, if you feel your project is at
the point where it's appropriate to start sending it out, you'll
have the material you need ready and polished to submit to an
agent or editor.
Any
final words of advice?
Be
prepared to write, write, polish and rewrite! While a carefully
chosen freelance editor can be extremely helpful, you'll only
make quantum leaps in your writing if you continue to write,
revise, and develop your craft. My goal in providing professional
editorial feedback is to give you the kind of guidance that will
help you craft the rest of your project with less editorial assistance
and thus less expense!
