Identifying the Essential Steps in Book Editing: Understanding the Seven Key Editing Phases
For authors embarking on their publishing journey, understanding the different types of editing services available can be a game-changer. Each service caters to a specific stage or need in the author's journey from manuscript conception to publication.
Developmental Editing
Developmental editing focuses on the overall structure, organization, and content of the manuscript. This service helps shape the plot, character development, pacing, and thematic elements, making it ideal for early drafts and authors needing guidance to bring their ideas cohesively onto the page.
Evaluation Editing (Structural Editing)
Evaluation editing provides a high-level critique assessing a manuscript's marketability and commercial potential. It identifies strengths and weaknesses and advises whether a manuscript is ready for agents or publishers. The service focuses on aligning the book with its intended audience and publishing goals.
Copyediting
Copyediting corrects grammar, spelling, punctuation, usage, and consistency. It checks cross-references and ensures adherence to style guides. Copyediting can include automated tools combined with human review to speed up and maintain quality.
Proofreading
Proofreading is the final check after copyediting, focusing on surface errors like typos, formatting issues, and minor mistakes. It is typically the last step before publication.
Fiction Editing (Structural Story Editing)
Fiction editing is a specialized service for fiction authors involving story arc strengthening, plot critique, and presentation improvement. This service helps avoid storytelling problems and enhances narrative flow, often performed by certified fiction editors.
Dissertation/Academic Editing
Dissertation/Academic editing is tailored for academic works, focusing on clarity, structure, grammar, and adherence to academic style guides. Editors often have advanced degrees and subject expertise to ensure scholarly standards.
Other Editorial Services
Ghostwriting
Ghostwriting involves writing on behalf of another person, using their voice, as in autobiographies or memoirs.
Work-for-Hire Writing
Work-for-Hire writing is contracted writing where the client retains rights, producing various content types.
Curriculum Development
Curriculum development involves organizing educational materials aligned with curriculum standards.
Blurb Writing
Blurb writing teams strive for elegance and style in their descriptions. A blurb is designed to tease and intrigue readers without giving away too much of the story. Blurb writing is not just a summary of the story but a marketing piece designed to intrigue readers. A blurb writing team consists of professionals who know how to write captivating blurbs without giving away too much of the story.
Book Coaching
Book coaching is ideal for the initial editing phase, after the manuscript is complete. This service focuses on the overall structure and content of a manuscript, addressing scenes, characters, world-building, and genre expectations.
Title Creation Services
Title creation services research to ensure a book's title fits its content and is not similar to existing bestsellers.
Formatting
Formatters aim to prevent awkward reading and provide a professional touch. Formatting prepares a manuscript for printing and e-readers, ensuring it maintains its appearance after conversion. Traditional publishers often change a book's title for marketing purposes.
Beta readers may provide feedback during this stage, but professional readers are more equipped to offer constructive criticism and dedicate time to the manuscript.
