What is a professional edit?
Why hire an editor before I publish? Can’t I just use Grammarly, ProWritingAid, and AutoCrit, or do it myself?
I'm confused. What kind of edits are there?
There’s some fluidity between the different kinds of edits, and terms are sometimes used interchangeably, and many editors provide multiple services. The best way to understand what kind of edit you want, and what kind of edit your editor can provide, is to discuss it with them before work starts. Make sure you’re on the same page as your editor so you get the work you want and need, so both you and your potential editor understands the editor's job and what services you'd like. Practitioners often specialize, so ask if what you need is what your prospective editor provides! That'll make sure you and your editor have a great relationship and you get a great edit back.
Developmental and Structural Edits
Developmental Editing
Structural Editing
Often combined with a developmental edit, a structural edit analyzes the flow and structure of your manuscript, focusing on tone, style, and quality of writing. Again, this is a big-picture service, and it doesn’t look at individual sentences or catch misspelled words.
The Copy or Line Edit
Copy and line edits are closely related, and sometimes their pieces are combined into a single service.
Copy or Content Editing
In a copy edit, your editor will look at the copy (that is, the text) of your manuscript and will focus on word choice, grammar, and overall writing quality. They will look for things like the use of active and passive voice, sentence construction and intelligibility (like Yoda do you write?), and word repetition, to make your manuscript tighter and read better.
Line Editing
Proofreading
What about nonfiction?
Nonfiction work also requires editing, and all manuscripts will benefit from good edits. In addition, you're not necessarily writing a bullet point-based how-to manual. Often nonfiction will have a story to tell (like a memoir or biography), and a developmental editor can help you structure that tale, even if it's true. A content or line editor will help you clean up the grammar, and a proofreader will still be your final check that everything is right.
What do I need to give an editor?
Most commonly, your editor will ask you to stick to a particular format for your document that makes life easier for them.
How long will it take?
Your editor will give you a timeframe on when to expect delivery, but for an average novel-length manuscript, 60 to 90 days is pretty reasonable. Book editors want to take the time to perform the task with care and precision, and of course they may have other demands on their time as well. Sometimes it's difficult for an author to wait that long, but an author can always move on to the next story!
What do I get back when the manuscript is done?
How do I find an editor?
Many times, editors get work through word-of-mouth. You can always ask your author community if they have recommendations, or you can visit the Three Story Method Certified Editor page to get started. Or you can simply book your free 15 minute call directly with V.E. Griffith today!
But what if I want an editor specifically trained in the Three Story Method?
Three Story Method editors like V.E. Griffith can help you find exactly the right editor for you, at any stage of your writing journey. All Three Story Method editors offer the Story Diagnostic, but each offers their own spin on the Diagnostic, as well as other services, such as coaching, line editing, and more! Reach out to any of them and they will be happy to help you find the right match.
What does it all cost?
The cost will depend on the length of the manuscript and exactly what services you need. Any editor you select should be willing to give you a no-obligation quote based on your needs.
What does V.E. Griffith offer?
- Three Story Method Diagnostic
- Single-Scene Analysis
- Three Story Method Diagnostic With Line Editing
- Line Editing Without a Diagnostic
- Proofreading
- Coaching
- Three Story Method Coaching
- Single sessions
- Multiple sessions
Can I get a sample edit?
Yes! During your free 15 minute call, feel free to ask for a sample edit. V.E. Griffith is happy to do a free line edit of up to 2000 words of your manuscript so you can see what you'll get.
What does V.E. Griffith charge?
Again, the cost will vary based on the service you need, the length of your manuscript (in words, not pages), and how fast you need it done. In general, pricing looks like this.
- Three Story Method Diagnostic: 2.5c/word, minimum 60,000 words
- Line editing with a Three Story Method Diagnostic: 3.5c/word, minimum 60,000 words
- Line editing without a Diagnostic: 2.5c/word, minimum 10,000 words
- Proofreading: 1c/word, minimum 2500 words
- Coaching: Sessions start at $99 for an hour-long coaching engagement, with discounts for longer relationships.
But what if my manuscript is shorter than the minimum or I have other considerations?
Individual situations can be hashed out during your free 15 minute call. V.E. Griffith understands that every person is unique, and can tailor your package to your individual needs. There's no company or middle-man here, so you can get exactly the service that fits you. Don't let the prices scare you! Set up your free 15 minute call today!