You’re ready to start the editing process for your book, but have no idea where to start. You look into different editors and they all have different services to offer. I’m here to break it down for you so you can figure out the editing services you will need through the various editing stages.
Whether you’re on your first draft or 15th, there is a service for you.
Now some editors may combine services. Others may call them something else. But for the most part, these are the most common names I’ve come across when looking for editors. Let’s get started.
Developmental Edits
A developmental editor looks at your book from a developmental aspect. Usually these editors are used during the beginning phases of your writing. They critique and help you to develop your story while you’re still in the process of writing.
Line Edits
A line editor looks at each individual line of text in your manuscript. This tedious task is to make sure that sentence structure is correct while also paying attention to your unique writing style. Usually you’ll want to use a line editor once you’re on the final draft of your manuscript.
Copy Editing
A copy editor looks at the grammar, punctuation, and spelling of your manuscript. They also look to make sure that your style is consistent throughout the manuscript. You’ll want to hire this editor once you are finished making changes to your work.
Proofreading
A proofreader looks at the grammar, punctuation, and spelling of your manuscript. Unlike a copy editor, proofreaders will usually only look at those three areas. This is the final step before publishing your book.
Alpha Readers
Along the way you may want someone to read your book and focus on certain aspects. These readers are alpha readers. They look at your book when you’re at the beginning stages of writing. Think draft 2 or 3. Then they help point out plot holes or other issues that need to be addressed before even thinking about hiring an editor.
Beta Readers
Unlike alpha readers, beta readers are meant to read your book in the later stages of editing. Think draft 5 or 6. At this point your book is almost complete and you’re looking for feedback about how your story reads to your audience.
When it comes to editing your book, you’re in control. Do all of the research you can about a potential editor and try to see if they offer a sample. This sample will help you determine whether you and this editor are a fit for each other. Not everyone has a similar vision as you when it comes to your book and editing can be costly. Make sure you put your book in the right editor’s hands to get the most out of your time and money.
I hope this post leads you in the right editing direction the next time you’re in the market for an editor. Being confident in your decision to hire the editor right for you is an important first step in the editing process.
Keep on Writing!
What stage are you currently at in your editing process? Do you have any other editing service questions? Let’s talk in the comments below!
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