As a writer myself, I understand how the editing, proofreading, and publishing process can be a daunting, even a frightening process, but I assure you, we all need editors!

The first port of call when editing, a Developmental Edit provides a critical analysis of how the book works as a whole and on an individual chapter/section basis. The work is examined for troublesome writing habits on a large scale which permit fatal errors in structure. This includes examining the strengths and weaknesses of the manuscript relevant to engaging the target audience with a focus on topics, thoughts, advice, while managing structure, theme, and voice. A Developmental Edit ensures balance before publishing. 

The line-editing part of the process seeks to make the writing consistent, smooth, and compelling so the reader moves effortlessly through the material. It analyses the creative content, writing style, and language use at the sentence and paragraph level of the manuscript.

The purpose is not to search the manuscript for errors but to focus on how the Author uses language and words to communicate their ideas, searching for tone, writing style, atmosphere, and emotion while avoiding cliché, repetition, redundant words, and convoluted language.

The copy-editing part of the process addresses flaws on a very technical level and is designed to correct the mechanics, grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors. This process will also flag ambiguous or factually incorrect statements, and ensures correct use of hyphenation, numerals, fonts, and capitalization, etc. It will highlight any discrepancies within the manuscript such as with facts or figures.

As a final review of the manuscript, this service will ensure the Work is ready for publication. Although the manuscript may have gone through developmental editing, line editing, and copy editing, errors can still get missed in these earlier review stages.

Proofreading is the last opportunity to correct any errors which may have slipped through before it is published.

Honestly? It depends. Every book is different meaning the editing and proofreading process for some some may be more complicated than others. In addition, some will take longer due to length or urgency. The subject matter and the level of writing is also another factor to take into consideration. Because of this, rates can vary depending on the editing service required.. 

Depending on the project, I can edit your work and provide a rate in a few ways:

A rate per 1,000 words

An hourly rate

Or a flat rate per project

All of my rates are based on guidance provided by the Association of Freelance Editors, Proofreaders and Indexers of Ireland (AFEPI Ireland) which can be found here

In order for me to provide you with pricing we need to have a chat about your project and what you need before publishing. I can then provide you with an accurate quote based exclusively on your project. 

Another great question with the same answer. "Honestly? It depends."

Once again, every book is different. How long an editing process takes will depend on the subject matter, the level of writing, the structure, and the overall wordcount. 

On first look of your manuscript and understanding the level of editing you are looking for, I can give you an estimate which I actively work towards. Due to the commitments I have, I work with a limited number of authors at one time, meaning there may be a waiting list. In general, currently, you are looking at:

Developmental Edit - average  4-6 weeks

Line-editing - average 3-4 weeks

Copy-editing - average 3-4 weeks

Proofreading - average 2 weeks

Editing is intrinsically a subjective process of offering advice and suggestions to an author before publishing based on the editors expertise. The decision to accept or reject these suggestions is finally and solely yours. It can also be an overwhelming experience which is why I suggest hiring an editor you know you will work well with!