Editing Services
There are three main types of editing - structural editing, copyediting and proofreading.
So, what type of editing do you need?
Structural
Editing
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AKA substantive or developmental editing
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Big picture editing
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Examining plot, character, themes, pacing, dialogue
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Creative suggestions
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Problem solving
Copyediting
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Paragraph level
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Ensure text is clear, concise and consistent
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Correct grammar, spelling and punctuation
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Check factual accuracy
Proofreading
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Sentence level
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Usage errors
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Spelling
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Punctuation
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Style
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Layout
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Typos
Structural Editing
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Has your manuscript been through a number of drafts?
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Are you looking to submit to agents or publishers?
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Are you considering self publishing?
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Do you need a new perspective?
If so, then a structural edit may be for you.
Whether you're a published or aspiring author, structural editing is the first step towards a polished manuscript. It is the most intensive of the three types of editing and is often the first level of editing for a manuscript.
Structural editing is a creative process. The manuscript as a whole along with all the "big picture" elements are analysed. A structural edit identifies problems and inconsistencies and possible solutions are suggested.
Manuscript Assessment
Depending upon the level of editing required, a manuscript assessment may be more useful. Although a manuscript assessment focuses on the same elements as a structural edit, the service is limited to a structural report, without the detailed Track Changes on the manuscript. This is because a manuscript is likely to go through some major changes after a manuscript assessment and it may be a better use of your time and budget to acquire a more extensive edit after further rewrites. You can find out about our Manuscript Assessment rates here.
Copyediting
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Have you completed a structural edit?
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Would you like to ensure your manuscript, document or website is clear, concise and correct before publication?
A copyedit is also known as a line edit and it's likely what most people think of when they think of editing. It's a more detailed analysis of a manuscript or document - line by line. A copyedit is made entirely on the manuscript using Microsoft Word's Track Changes and includes a short report on any major changes or questions, and a style sheet. So if you need a check for accuracy, style, grammar and tone and want more details on rates, click here.
Copyediting is an important part of the publishing process but it's not always necessary before sending to an editor or agent.
It's important to find an editor who understands your goals and your manuscript, which is why we suggest a sample edit to begin with. A sample edit is feedback on the first ten pages. The cost of which is deducted from the copy edit quote for the whole manuscript. A sample edit helps both you and the editor - you get to see the kind of feedback you can expect and the editor can provide a more accurate quote.
Proofreading
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Are you happy with your manuscript?
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Are you ready to self-publish?
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Do you need that extra pair of eyes to check for those niggly little errors?
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Have you completed a structural edit and a copyedit?
Yes? Then, this is usually the time to do a final proofread. Ideally, proofreading is done by someone other than the writer. It's a check for spelling, grammar, accuracy and all the little errors that might have been missed in previous edits. It is the final process in achieving a polished manuscript or document.