Collaborating effectively with writers is essential to good editing. That may seem obvious, but it nonetheless needs to be said. When writers and editor are on the same page (pun intended), the editing process works better for both parties.
Collaboration requires clear and regular communication between editor and writer, a solid understanding of the writer’s vision and what they want to say, and constructive feedback and suggestions. Good communication can prevent misunderstandings and ensure the author’s vision for the manuscript is realized.
When I edit, I establish a collaborative working relationship with my clients. As part of building a rapport, I take the time to get to know them and their vision for their work. I provide regular updates and feedback throughout the editing process.
In working with an author, I:
- Establish a clear communication plan at the beginning of the editing process.
- Use clear and specific language in my communications.
- Respond promptly to questions and concerns.
- Provide regular updates on the status of the manuscript.
In editing a client’s work, I keep in mind the following:
- The intended audience
- The author’s voice and tone
- The big picture: the premise and purpose of the work
To get more specific, in editing a book manuscript, I review the chapters to ensure that they:
- Support the book’s big picture. I will edit to ensure that no chapter seems extraneous or goes off-topic.
- Have a logical flow and progression, and re-ordering them if they don’t.
- Are balanced in length.
- Appropriately and effectively use information and sources, whether anecdotes, interviews and quotes, statistics, or research.
I follow these principles even if the work is not a full-length book manuscript, for example, an essay, an article, or a research report.
Make sense to you? Then get in touch to discuss your work and how we can collaborate in editing it. You can contact me here or at my GdS Editorial Services website. If you already have a publisher, I will ensure your work is edited to meet your publisher’s expectations and requirements. Although no editor can promise that a manuscript will be published as a book, if you work with me, you will have a polished, professional manuscript that meets industry standards.