What’s included in an edit?
Short, sweet answer: everything below.
Long-winded answer: I’ll check everything below (and more), using Microsoft Word’s Track Changes or Comments features to address issues. (Here’s how to view the Tracked Changes, how to accept or reject each Tracked Change, and how to reply to Comments in a Word document.)
As the author, the final decision on any and all changes is yours.
Mechanics
☑️ Spelling
☑️ Punctuation
☑️ Hyphenation
☑️ Capitalization
☑️ Treatment of numbers
☑️ Dialogue mechanics
☑️ Use of italics
☑️ Consistency among headings, etc.
Fact-checking
☑️ Fact-checking includes verifying the spelling of anything “real” (i.e., names of people, places, businesses), verifying locations, checking quotations and trademark usage, etc.
☑️ The degree of fact-checking deepens with the level of the edit (e.g., for a light edit, basic fact-checking is included).
Language
☑️ Grammar
☑️ Usage
☑️ Diction
☑️ Authenticity (to ensure the language is accessible, accurate, respectful, and free of stereotypes)
☑️ Includes elements of line editing and authenticity reading
Revisions
☑️ Any edits will be shown through MS Word’s Track Changes or addressed through the Comments feature.
☑️ The depth of revising will relate to the level of edit. Light edits will likely include fewer revisions, for example, while medium or heavy edits will include more.
☑️ Final wording decisions remain yours.
Content
☑️ Consistency (in POV, tense, voice, etc.)
☑️ Rhythm and pacing
☑️ Repetition (e.g., of wording, phrases, ideas, events)
☑️ Dialogue (Is it working, as is?)
☑️ Anything problematic will be brought to your attention (including lingering developmental issues, etc.).
Style sheet
☑️ A style sheet will be included, with more information added as edits deepen.
☑️ The sheet will contain things like important names, relationships, locations, dates, spellings of certain words, style choices, and more.
☑️ Style sheets help ensure consistency and are a great reference!
What are the
next steps?
- Get in touch. I’d love to hear about your project!
- I’ll perform a free sample edit on your writing (e.g., about 1,000 to 1,500 words for a full-length novel). I’ll use this to offer you a project estimate, including pricing and time frame.
- If you’re happy with my feedback, we’ll set up a plan for the edit. As I work, I’ll keep my changes transparent and update you as often as you’d like.
- Once I’m finished, I’ll return your manuscript and address any remaining questions or concerns. Your story will be well on its way to captivating readers!
Information regarding rates
I offer competitive pricing without sacrificing quality, and because every project differs, rates are individually tailored. Please contact me regarding a free sample edit, so we can discuss some editing options.
Three Quills Editing
You want to write at your best, and I’d love to help.