Editing: A Beginner’s Guide
Is it enough to just send your very raw first draft to an editor and wait for their feedback?
What is editing?
For a first time author, editing may feel like a daunting task.
If you’re anything like me when I started out, you might find yourself lost in all the various processes and stages of editing.
Developmental Edit
Copy Edit
Line Edit
Manuscript Critique
Beta-reading
Proofreading
Sometimes every stage is required and at other times one or two may be skipped.
So, how do you choose what works for you? What is editing, anyway?
In basic terms, ‘Editing’ is a process of refining a creative composition—be it written or visual—for a target audience. Depending on the medium and the industry, editing constitutes various other processes, goals and technicalities.
Let’s keep it simple. In this article, I will be covering only manuscript editing for indie authors or self-published authors.
Devon has put together a great article outlining the 5 main steps involved in editing. I highly recommend you to check it out and get a fair understanding of what you can expect as well as prepare for once your first draft is ready.
Preparing Your Manuscript
In my experience, editing polishes your first draft into the final version of your manuscript/book that will reach the hands of your target reader.
But is it enough to just send your very very very raw first draft to an editor and wait for their feedback? Many authors and editors might say, no!
I would definitely say, no! First drafts are great. You’ve written a full book; you’ve hit your target word count; you’ve created a story in the form you wanted, etc. But is it really ready to show to others?
First things first! Let’s understand where you’re at.
There are 3 broad overlapping stages you need to cover before sending your draft off to the editor.
Alpha Reading
Self Editing
Rewriting
Read more on C Phillip’s Blog.