FAQs:

Do I need an editor or a proofreader?

If you have written a manuscript, have not worked with a professional editor and want to take your book to market, you need both. To help explain why, here are the definitions of the different forms of editing versus proofreading.

Developmental Editing is writing support that is provided during the production of a manuscript. In the developmental editing phase, your manuscript draft will be assessed and advice will be given on things like the core intentions of the book for its reader, the storyline, character development, use of dialogue and narrative voice, and style etc. As the author, you would then revise your manuscript, taking on board the advice of the editor. Developmental editing can even occur before you have written your manuscript. Tell me more…

Substantive Editing (aka Structural Editing) aims to ensure that the structure, content, language, style, flow and presentation of the document are suitable for its intended purpose and readership.

Copyediting (aka Line Editing) is checking grammar, spelling, punctuation and other style matters, while simultaneously checking for internal consistency of presentation and facts.

Proofreading involves checking that the document is ready to be published. It includes ensuring all elements of the document are included and in the proper order, all amendments have been inserted, the house or other set style has been followed, and all spelling or punctuation errors have been deleted. Proofreading is undertaken after the document has been edited and typeset. It is the final step before going to print.

How much do you charge for editing a book?

In order to provide you with a costing estimate to edit your manuscript, you will be asked to email us:

• A random sample of your manuscript (around 8 – 10 pages)
• An outline of the book (what it is about and who the intended reader is), and
• The total word count (e.g. 100,000 words).

We will use this information to provide you with a costing estimate to complete the edit.

If you would like a costing estimate to take your project from manuscript (or even concept) to self-published, printed, ready-to-sell book, we can do that too. Your quote will include a detailed breakdown of all costs involved.

Why self-publish?

A growing number of authors today are choosing to self-publish their book over submitting their manuscript to publishing houses in the hope that they receive a positive response (or any response at all). We work with a select number of excellent publishing houses with integrated services that make self-publishing easy and cost effective. Of course if you have an established connection with a publishing house we are happy to edit your manuscript and let your publisher take care of the rest.

Ready to get that book out of your head and into print? Contact us to get started.

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