Home      Editorial Services
 
Editorial Services
 
Content/Heavy Editing
Copyediting
Proofreading
Manuscript Evaluation and Feedback
Query Letter Review/Edit
Synopsis Review/Edit
 
 
Choose the one(s) that suit your specific needs and project. 
 
 
 Content/Heavy Editing
  A heavy edit involves editing for broader story elements like organization, plot, character development, and structure. How substantial the edit will be depends on the condition of the writing itself.  A good editor will improve the overall manuscript, eliminating any issues that would lead an agent to say, “Well, I liked the writing, but the characters weren't appealing,” or “I loved the plot, but the pacing was way too slow.”  Get these problems solved right off the bat!
 Copyediting
 This is summarized with the Five Cs:  to make the copy clear, correct, concise, comprehensible, and consistent. Typically, copyediting involves correcting spelling, terminology, punctuation, grammatical, and semantic errors.  Also, factual errors are corrected by copyediting.  Traditionally, copyeditors mark the changes on the actual manuscript, but now, changes can be made in Word, using Tracked Changes.  I leave the preference up to the client. 
 Proofreading
 This usually consists of a final polish to your manuscript.  This includes checking for typographical, spelling, and formatting errors, using standard proof correction marks (see Chicago Manual of Style).  Proofreading often includes light copyediting, depending on the job.
 
 Manuscript Evaluation and Feedback
  A general manuscript evaluation is also available, which consists of a full and thorough read of your manuscript, including specific feedback in writing about the writing, story, characters, market appeal (if applicable), and overall ideas for improvement.  The evaluation is given in the form of a 10 to 25-page feedback letter. I can also offer suggestions on how to proceed with your manuscript, answer questions and give advice about finding an agent that would be a good match for you and your project, and explain the publication process.  Anything you want to know, just ask!  This is not as detailed as a full content/heavy edit.