Why Freelance Editors Decline Manuscripts
It’s one thing to receive a rejection from an agent or a publishing house—few writers win the publishing lottery immediately. Your prospective agent may have hit their quota for urban robot romance,…
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What’s a “Reasonable” Rate?
When I quote on a project, I prefer to offer a total package price. It’s easier for me, and it reduces surprise fees for the writer. That’s why a large part of…
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Ask an Editor: Should You Use the Same Editor for a Second Read?
If you make changes to an already edited and proofed piece, is it a good idea to go to a different editor for a final/second round of edits for the fresh eyes,…
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Ask an Editor: Teaching Engineers, Content Editing, and Typos
Why is my supervisor asking me to teach the other engineers how to write? It’s a compliment! I’m guessing your supervisor recognizes you’re an effective communicator and that your touch translates to…
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The Importance and Limitations of Beta Readers
So you’re feeling good about your current draft. It’s shiny, you’ve corrected the most glaring goofs, and you’re ready to move forward. But before you make any big decisions, consider farming out…
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Ask An Editor: Kitty, Catty, Cater?
Kitty-corner/catty-corner. I know it’s regional. But a story I edited a few nights ago had cater-corner. Which is best? First, a disclaimer: I am neither a linguist nor a lexicographer—I’m just an…
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Ask an Editor: Punctuation with Parentheses
Every Friday I plan on answering a writing or editing question I've received via social media—or submission on this site. Today's topic? Those lovely curvy marks known as parentheses. Can you provide…
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Happy Holidays!
Regardless of what you do or do not celebrate, be well. Don't forget that discounted NaNoWriMo packages expire on December 31.
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Discounted NaNoWriMo Editing Packages
I love the idea of National Novel Writing Month. It’s an excuse to chase ideas and leverage oneself into a consistent writing practice. It’s a supportive (and sometimes competitive) community that offers…
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8 Ways to Vet Potential Editors
A self-published writer recently confessed that while he doesn’t mind investing in a good editor, he finds it difficult to determine what constitutes a “good editor” before writing the check. I get…
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