Whew! You’ve finished writing your novel and (hopefully) self-editing it. Congratulations! Now onto the fun part… more revision. Read on to learn the top 5 things you should do next before hiring an editor.
1. Revise your own manuscript to make sure the necessary story elements are intact and also work to tell the story you want to tell.
The character arc (personal conflict) should encompass the entire novel and help the protagonist ultimately confront the story’s central conflict. That means, the plot should escalate in intensity as the story progresses, with each scene and chapter contributing to advance it further. Check out this guide on how to edit your own novel for more tips.
2. Self-edit your manuscript for grammar to the best of your ability.
Before re-reading, brush up on any grammar rules you’re unclear about. If you’ve received feedback from another editor in the past about repeat offenders, take a look at the rules. This list of my favorite grammar books might help it stick.
3. Have a trusted friend, fellow writer, or beta reader give feedback on the entire novel.
This will save you money in the long run because it will likely save your editor time. Another option is to join a writing workshop with authors you trust to give honest, constructive feedback on your work. Check if your library has a local group or find one online. If you’ve taken a fiction writing class, reach out to a professor who might suggest other students interested in forming a workshop.
4. Determine if you need an editor.
Writers who are looking to publish traditionally do not need to pay an editor to go through their manuscript. Publishing houses typically cover this. (If they don’t, beware, you might be dealing with a vanity publisher.) Some authors who intend to publish traditionally may opt for an editor before querying to help present their manuscript, summary, and query letter in the best light.
However, if an author is planning on self-publishing, they do need an editor. Nothing sends a reader away faster than a book full of errors.
5. Ask for a sample of the editor’s work.
This might be a link to a book that the editor worked on, or it might be a sample edit of the first few pages of your novel. Either way, use this information to evaluate an editor’s skill and compatibility with your work. An editor should offer corrections and suggestions to improve the manuscript, not completely rewrite it.
I hope this list of what to do before hiring an editor helps you publish your novel and get it out there in the world. If you’re ready to start looking for an editor, request a quote today.
Heather Hobbs is a fiction writer, editor, and avid reader.
If you have general questions about editing your own manuscript or are searching for an editor, reach out using the form below.
