Your Guide to Working with a Friendly Copyeditor

Understanding the Copyediting Process

Are you looking for a friendly and experienced copyeditor to help you self-publish with confidence? Wondering what that would even entail? Every copyeditor has their own process and does things a bit differently. This article provides a brief overview of what it’s like to work with me.

Initial Contact and Project Agreement

Once you contact me, I’ll follow up via email with a quote. I will also provide the option of a short Zoom call to discuss the project in detail. This initial conversation is crucial for understanding your needs and expectations.

Next, I’ll put together a project agreement for your review and signature. This agreement lays out the scope of the project, payment schedule, deadlines, and general terms and conditions. These include confidentiality and procedures for cancellation and dispute resolution. This ensures we’re both on the same page from the start. I’ll also send an invoice for your deposit at this time.

Editing Process

I use Microsoft Word’s Tracking feature to make my edits. This allows you to review every suggested change and decide whether to accept it. My comments will also be visible, providing clarity on my thought process. Unless otherwise specified, my edits are based on The Chicago Manual of Style, 18th ed., and Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, 11th ed. These are the industry standards for book publishing.

For books with Christian content, I also utilize The Christian Writer’s Manual of Style. If your book contains quotations from the Bible, I will double-check those for accuracy. This attention to detail ensures that your work is polished and professional.

Regular Updates and Final Deliverables

For longer projects (more than a week or two), I’ll provide regular progress updates. This keeps you informed and engaged throughout the editing process.

When I return the finished manuscript to you, you will also receive a custom-designed style sheet. This sheet gives you a general overview of the editing guidelines I used, as well as a record of style choices made along the way. If you’re planning to follow the copyedit with a proofread, be sure to forward that style sheet to your proofreader along with your edited manuscript.

Post-Editing Support

I’m always happy to answer any questions that arise from the edit. You can reach out via email or through another brief Zoom chat. Communication is key, and I want to ensure you feel supported throughout this journey.

Feel free to contact me with any questions about the process I’ve outlined here. My schedule is typically booked several weeks out, so if your manuscript will be ready for a copyedit soon, let’s chat!

Conclusion

Working with a copyeditor can be a transformative experience for your manuscript. It enhances clarity, improves flow, and ensures that your voice shines through. By following the steps outlined above, you can navigate the editing process with confidence.

Remember, the goal is to produce a polished piece that resonates with your audience. So, let’s work together to make your manuscript the best it can be!