An Introduction to Editing (Part 1)

There are two crucial parts to every book you write. The first is the writing and completion of your manuscript and preparing it for acquisition and publication, and the second is everything that goes along with the production, marketing, sale, and distribution of your book. When you have completed your story, you want to edit your own work to produce a final draft that is as polished as you can make it prior to submission. Understand, however, that as much work as you do on the manuscript at this stage, it will only be the start of the editing process.

If you are fortunate enough to be accepted by an agent or publisher, they will have their own views about how the book can be further improved. A good literary agent will often edit or critique a manuscript they are looking to take on and offer valuable suggestions to increase its marketability. They do not offer line-by-line edits or make rewrites. It is up to the author to incorporate the agent's suggested changes. You may not agree with all their suggestions, but, like your beta readers, remember that they are trying to help you improve your novel. The book will be subject to an even more detailed editorial process prior to publication, because in order to be ready for publication, a manuscript must go through multiple rounds of editing, first by the you as the author, and then in collaboration with an editor. Whether you choose the editor because you are self-publishing or one is supplied by your publisher, a professional editor is essential. Editing is broken down into three major phases that include developmental editing, copy editing, and proofreading.

Authors often find this process frustrating, especially when you may feel as if you are not making progress. Remember though, this is a critical part of improving your work and making it more saleable. When you have worked your way through the differences of opinion, you will almost always end up with a far better book. Having said that, many authors hate the editing process. It feels less creative than the writing process, and, depending on the state of your initial manuscript, can be a challenging time. Sometimes you may feel that while you sort a hole in the plot or a timing issue, all you do is add many more problems. It is hard work, and it requires concentration and attention to detail. Having said that, it is necessary to present your work in the best possible light.

Most of all enjoy your writing, thank God for the gift you have been given and make sure your piece is polished enough that your readers will enjoy it too.