Frequently Asked Questions

Do I really need an editor?

Yes! At this point, you are too close to your work to spot things that a fresh eye will find. An editor will read your work as your future audience will and will iron things out so your readers have a smooth and enjoyable reading experience. This can translate into positive reviews and your readers recommending your book to others (more sales!).

Can’t AI do what an editor does?

Nope. AI cannot provide human understanding when it comes to a lot of things. For example, I do use Grammarly in my work, but I ignore about 95% of its suggestions. I know what the author is trying to say and the best way for that to come across. AI isn’t quite capable of that.

What can editing do for my manuscript?

Editing is really all about advocating for your future readers. You know what you’re trying to say, but sometimes it doesn’t always come across clearly. A good editor will not only spot that but also suggest ways to clarify it. A good editor will also find inconsistencies that could confuse or throw a reader off (for example, Sue has brown eyes in chapter two, but in chapter four, they’re blue). Of course, there are also the well-known skills that editors bring, such as finding and correcting typos. All of that translates into a well-polished book that your readers will appreciate.

What type of editing services do you offer?

A lot of people don’t know that there are several levels of editing that are needed. I offer copy editing services and proofreading services, which come after other types of editing. Find out more about what copy editing is here. Find out more about what proofreading is here.

What’s it like to work with you?

Working with me is pretty simple. Once I complete the free sample edit, send you my quote, and we decide we are a good match, you send me the entire manuscript (if I don’t already have it). I take a 50% deposit up-front before I get started. I accept payment in a variety of ways, so I’m sure we can find one that works for you. Once I have the deposit, I get started. You’ll know the turnaround time ahead of time (it’s typically two weeks, though it’s individual and depends on a lot of things), and I’ll ask you any questions I have along the way. When I’m finished, I’ll accept the remaining 50% of the payment, and then turn the manuscript over to you.

You can always ask me any questions you may have at any time. I’m here to make your book the best it can be. And remember, all those red marks are just suggestions! It’s your book, and you get to decide what to take and what to leave.

My manuscript isn’t ready for the types of editing you do. What do I do?

I have a broad network of other editors who do all types of editing and work on all types of subject matters. If your manuscript isn’t ready yet for copy editing or proofreading, still feel free to get in touch with me. I can reach out to my network and help you find someone who matches your current editing needs. I know the search for an editor can be overwhelming. I’d love to help!