Should You Hire An Editor?

In traditional publishing, there is a process to ensure that manuscripts are flawless, or at least near flawless; we all know that mistakes occasionally make it in to print. After submitting your manuscript to a publisher, it is reviewed by an editor and returned to you, the author, for review. After you have reviewed the manuscript and addressed any issues, the editor reviews the manuscript again, but it doesn’t end there. The manuscript is then proofread, either by the author or a professional proofreader. If everyone does their job correctly, you should publish a flawless book.

In self-publishing, however, it is up to you to edit your work. You can use spelling and grammar tools, but these programs are not flawless. They are not capable of recognizing typos or misused words, and believe it or not, sometimes the grammar suggestions are incorrect. The biggest problem with these tools is inconsistencies. Word processing programs are not designed to recognize style inconsistencies or factual inconsistencies. Only human eyes are capable of identifying these issues.

So how do you make sure your manuscript is flawless? One possibility is hiring a professional editor. This individual will be able to edit your manuscript with a fresh set of unbiased eyes. In addition to correcting spelling, grammar, and style errors, an editor can point out areas in the manuscript that are unclear or contradictory. Best of all, an editor will make your manuscript more professional. One of the biggest misconceptions about self-publishing is that the books are poorly written and filled with errors. The easiest way to dispel that myth is to treat your manuscript as a professional book and take charge of the editing process.

To find an editor, check out websites such as craiglist.com, elance.com, guru.com, and outskirtspress.com. You can also search Google for editors near you, and ask other writers for recommendations.

ABOUT CHERI BREEDING: Since 2005 Cheri Breeding has been working as the Director of Production for Outskirts Press. In that time, she has been an instrumental component of every aspect of the Production Department, performing the roles of an Author Representative, Book Designer, Customer Service Representative, Title Production Supervisor, Production Manager and, Director of Production. She brings all that experience and knowledge, along with an unparalleled customer-service focus, to help self-publishing authors reach high-quality book publication more efficiently, professionally, and affordably.