By Mike Owens

“No, sir, I don’t need editing. I’ve spent ten years working on this manuscript and I’ve given it to all of my friends to read.”

I’ve heard this statement on numerous occasions, and have always turned the conversation around as soon as possible. Although many publishers will publish books without requiring editing, editing is a fundamental part of getting into print.

If I had spent 10 years working on a book, scanning every detail to make the book the best I can, I would certainly not neglect to get it professionally edited.

Is An Edit For Me?

Yes, every author needs to have an edit for his or her book. Whether you’re a first-time author or a famous, multi-published author, an edit is crucial.

Can I Skip the Edit?

I strongly recommend that you don’t. The reader’s first impression might be their only impression. If you skip the edit, book sales (or rather, lack of them) can be devastating.

Where Do I Find A Good Editor?

Anyone can promote themselves as an editor, whether they’re a high school student or a math major. The question remains: Where can I get a professional edit? Start by asking your publisher if they have editors on staff. If not, ask for their list of recommended editors. If a publisher tries to dissuade you from an edit, run away, fast.

What Do I Do After an Edit?

The next step would be to find a suitable publisher. I recommend purchasing Christian Writers’ Market Guide 2009, a wonderful resource for all of your publishing needs.

Before looking for a publisher, research the sales probability of your book and determine whether a royalty publisher would accept the material, or whether your needs would be better served with a subsidiary publisher.

Mike Owens is a Solutions Advisor for Pleasant Word. He aims to find the best publishing fit for new and seasoned authors. As well as helping begin the publishing process, Mike helps within the marketing and publicity aspects of the production process.