Surprises in Book Printing and Distribution: 4 Tips for New Authors
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Surprises in Book Printing and Distribution: 4 Tips for New Authors
Setting realistic expectations for the book editing process is crucial for any author aiming for success. Insights from a Director and Founder and a Traditionally Published Author reveal the importance of understanding the editorial journey. The first tip underscores trusting the editorial process, while the final insight emphasizes planning for a detailed editing timeline. Discover all four expert insights to navigate the timeline, cost, and potential challenges of book editing.
- Trust the Editorial Process
- Understand Different Types of Editors
- Submit Your Best Work Initially
- Plan for a Detailed Editing Timeline
Trust the Editorial Process
Try to communicate that an editor is a writer's interlocutor and not their enemy. While a series of suggested edits might brush against a writer's particular vision for a project—and a writer has every right to express as much—this is not evidence of the editor's conspiracy to delay or disrupt the process. At its best, editing helps to locate unexplored backdoors and avenues within a project that will both serve and develop the original vision. It is a great thing to be able to develop a project with the benefit of another consciousness that can navigate the process from a separate vantage point. As such, the editorial process requires some flexibility and honesty on both sides, grounded in trust that both parties are working toward a common goal: to create a great work of art.
Understand Different Types of Editors
It's important for authors to have very clear expectations and to know where their book is in the process when working with an editor. Many new authors don't realize there are different types of editors and assume their books will need only one round of edits before publication. However, most books require several rounds of editing, and different editors serve different purposes—particularly a developmental editor versus a line editor.
A developmental editor looks at the big picture of the story and ensures it's structured appropriately. When most people think of editing, they think of line editing. There's an overlap between line and copy editors, but a line editor looks at syntax, punctuation, and the flow of each sentence. Line editors will also verify facts, fix typos, and look for inconsistencies in the text. (A copy editor may perform similar tasks to a line editor but focuses primarily on broad technical issues. However, many editors who do line edits refer to themselves as copy editors since the term is more common.) Developmental editing always occurs before line or copy editing.
If your book requires a developmental edit prior to a line or copy edit, you'll likely have a longer timeline for your project (and increased cost since this is an extra step). This is because developmental editing involves changing major elements of your story, which is time-consuming. However, it's worthwhile to catch story-breaking issues early on in the process, and a good developmental editor will make certain your plot, theme, and characters are consistent and clear. Then, authors can work with a line editor. Some editors will offer both developmental edits and line/copy edits, which can save some money and potentially time.
When an author is aware of the type of edits they will likely need, it becomes much easier to create a realistic timeline and budget. I encourage authors to be open to feedback and to ask editors about the type of edits they perform so they can better anticipate what the editing process will look like for them.
Submit Your Best Work Initially
I had always heard that before you submit your work, it should be as close to perfect as possible. At the time, I wondered why, because I thought, "Well, doesn't it have to be edited anyway?" The reason is the turnaround time!
For my traditionally published novel, The Furious Others, my turnaround time for edits was ONE WEEK. It was so stressful! And it still underwent another round of edits after that. To save time and anxiety, I learned an important lesson with my next book—it will be as close to perfect as possible so that I won't have as much to correct on the back end.
I recommend all other writers do the same because correcting just the typical grammar edits so fast can lead to more errors. It's better to start with the cleanest version out there.
Plan for a Detailed Editing Timeline
Entering the world of book editing is exciting, but it can feel overwhelming. So, what should you expect with editing timelines, costs, and potential challenges?
Editing isn't a quick process. The timeline depends on your book's genre, length, and the type of edits needed. Here's a general breakdown:
Developmental Editing (2-6 weeks): This "big-picture" edit focuses on structure, pacing, and character development. It's often the most time-consuming since it may require rewriting and rethinking major parts of the story.
Line/Copy Editing (1-4 weeks): After developmental edits, this stage polishes language and readability. It's more detail-oriented, ensuring each sentence flows well.
Proofreading (1-3 weeks): The final pass to catch any typos or grammar issues. It's often quicker but crucial, as it's your last chance to perfect the manuscript before publishing.
In total, the process can take anywhere from several weeks to a few months, so plan ahead. Many authors underestimate how long editing can take and end up feeling rushed, so setting a realistic timeline from the start is key.
How Much Does Editing Cost?
Editing isn't cheap, and costs vary widely based on the type of edit, manuscript length, and the editor's experience. Here's a rough idea of the price range:
Developmental Editing: $0.05-$0.15 per word. For a 70,000-word book, this can mean $3,500-$10,000.
Line/Copy Editing: Around $0.02-$0.06 per word, so roughly $1,400-$4,200 for a 70,000-word book.
Proofreading: Typically $0.01-$0.03 per word, or about $700-$2,100.
These numbers may seem high, but quality editing is a key investment in your book's success. If budget is an issue, consider spreading out costs by working on one stage at a time.
Common Editing Challenges
Editing also brings some emotional and mental hurdles. Here are a few you might face:
Handling Criticism: Editors are there to help, but receiving feedback can feel personal. Try to remember their goal is to make your book stronger.
Choosing Which Edits to Accept: At the end of the day, it's your book, so it's up to you to decide what changes to keep. Don't hesitate to discuss feedback with your editor if you're unsure.
Final Tip: Be Patient
Each stage is a step toward a stronger book. Remember, a rushed edit rarely produces the quality you want, so give yourself—and your book—the time it needs to shine.
