A checklist for authors to get the most out of this experience. How do you know if it’s time?
You Have a Complete Manuscript
This one probably sounds obvious, but it’s worth mentioning that finished novels allow editors to provide feedback on aspects such as how the plotlines pan out, if the ending has impact, if the characters have evolved in an understandable way, how the theme is handled and if the book’s narrative question is answered by the end.
Some authors may find themselves in the camp of having a partial manuscript because they’ve become stuck during the writing process. It can happen to the best of us and if this is you, I offer a separate service that helps guide authors on how to get to that finish line. The details can be viewed here!
This Isn’t Your First Draft
Why? Because taking a break and coming back to the manuscript can help you to identify issues you may be able to fix yourself before hiring a professional. Often a manuscript will undergo a few rounds of self-revision before being submitted to an editor for assessment.
You’re Ready to Let Go
You’re feeling ready for someone else to view the manuscript, knowing you’ve taken it as far as you can by yourself, or with the help of trusted alpha or beta readers. Unsure what these readers do? I have a separate blog post about them here.
You’re Open to Critique
A developmental edit looks at both the strengths and weaknesses of a novel. To receive all praise might feel wonderful but isn’t too helpful when it comes to pushing the novel to reach its full potential.
You’re Willing to Grow
Expect to receive advice that can improve future written works and the current manuscript.
You’ve Identified the Goal of Your Book
Why is the book important to you or others? It may be to educate, entertain, explore a theme, or answer a question. Conveying the “why” behind why you’ve written your novel to an editor means they can evaluate how well this goal has been achieved and suggest ways to further meet this goal if needed.
You’ve Thought of Who Your Target Audience Is
Similar to above, your chosen editor will advise if the content of the book is suitable for the audience in mind, meets their expectations and if any of the subjects may require trigger warnings or an authenticity reader. If unsure who the target audience is exactly, your editor can help you pinpoint this.
*If the items on this checklist have resonated and you would like to make enquiries with a developmental editor, feel free to get in contact to discuss your book.
Comments