Four Types of Editing for Books by Indie Authors

Every manuscript needs editing at some point. It's an investment that writers should make so their stories don't have grammatical mistakes or holes that readers can spot. But before the magic happens, the book needs to be edited. This is the final touch after the story has been crafted. 

Even though you have incredible writing skills, your work still needs to go through the editing process. However, is there a universal type of editing or are there different categories to choose from? Read more to learn about the four types of editing for books. Enjoy reading!

Developmental Editing

When you think of requesting developmental editing, "big picture" is the phrase you need to have in mind. Developmental editors work hand in hand with writers on solving problems related to plot, setting, characters, conflict, and point of view.

Story elements help readers understand the narratives they read. And putting all of them together will help your story flow. As the author, you know your story and its outline. A developmental editor will help you identify and close gaps in your story that were unnoticed when you were writing.

So, why would you need developmental editing? Because these editors will guide you on how to reach your appropriate audience. They tell you what your audience is expecting when reading a book within your genre. Additionally, developmental editing focuses on the organization of your text. In a few words, developmental editors will tell you how to put all the pieces together after you have the draft of your story.

Line Editing

Developmental editing deals with the bigger picture. After you receive feedback from your developmental editor, a line editor will be the next person you speak with. Line editing focuses on literally editing line by line. Paying meticulous attention to details will show that your story matters and help you stand out among other authors. The solution to this is to hire a line editor.

A line editor will make sure that your sentences are fluid, clear, and enjoyable. This type of editing addresses your story at the paragraph level, and your line editor will revise each sentences line by line. Plus, line editors catch ambiguity in your manuscript and maintain your voice, tone, and style. 

At Speak Write Play, you can choose any of these editing services. Our professional editors will make your story shine before it's placed on the bookshelf. 

Copy Editing

So far, you have read about two different types of editing. Editing is a complex process, so one universal or general type of editing doesn't really exist.

A copy editor is the author's second pair of eyes. They check spelling, punctuation, quotes, abbreviations, footnotes, headings, charts, etc. In short, they focus more of the mechanics of your manuscript and less of your actual writing style. Copy editors complete the final revisions that your manuscript will undergo. 

Are those the only areas a copy editor covers? Fortunately, no. Since copy editors check grammar and punctuation, it's important to underline that they're not proofreaders.

Proofreading as an Editing Type

It's always good to make sure your story won't have pesky errors that readers will notice. 

A proofreader is the one who helps ensure the editing process reaches its goal. Proofreading checks consistency throughout your book. It includes checking headings, formatting, and grammar rules. Plus, proofreaders check page breaks and correct page numberings.

The proofreader is the final person to check your book with their hawk eyes. Proofreading is the final professional filter you should consider when going through the editing process.

Food for Thought

Always have your manuscript edited by a professional editor before it's published. When your book has gone through the entire editing process, you'll receive a final product that you can publish confidently. As the author, you can rest assured that you'll keep your voice after a professional has worked on your manuscript.

One tip for finding a good editor is to ask for a quote and an editing sample. That way, you'll know the quality of editing your next manuscript will have and discover if your editor is a good fit.

Takeaway

Based on your needs, choose an editor that best fits your work. It's a win-win situation. You will need professional help to make your manuscript shine and stand out from the rest. A good editor will always offer a sample and show you a portfolio of the books they have edited. Today, you've learned a few different terms that will help you decide the type of editing your manuscript needs.