FAQs
How is coaching line-editing different from what other editors do?
By working fifty pages at a time, I give you a chance to study what I do and apply it to your own work. Together, we work through your manuscript in fifty-page batches. This hands-on approach builds your basic writing skills in a way that applies to everything you write. Coaching editing is like a writing seminar, focused exclusively on your manuscript.
How do I make a payment?
You can pay by check, money order, or through Paypal, where most credit cards are accepted.
Can I submit a manuscript that isn't finished yet?
Almost always, no. It's impossible to evaluate your plot or character development without knowing where your story is headed. In non-fiction, I need to evaluate the individual elements against the overall structure. Occasionally I accept a partial manuscript when the writer is stuck and needs my help to complete it.
What is the difference between line-editing and copy-editing?
Copy-editing is close to the art of proofreading and largely concerns itself with grammar. Line-editing shapes your work in any and every way needed to polish your characters, voice, plot, and clarity of style. Copy editing is a poor investment for the beginning writer. When your book is good enough to sell, your publisher will provide a copy editor.
I'm on a limited budget. How can I afford editing?
Editing is labor intensive, so it's priced like any custom, handcrafted work. However, some writers are able to learn enough to rewrite their books from a diagnostic reading report. If you do need line-editing, it's my usual practice to line-edit fifty pages at a time, so you can pace the process to suit your budget. Another possibility is to use your credit card through Paypal and pay for your editing over time. If you're really hard up, I also offer the Starving Writer Program.
How do I e-mail my manuscript?
Just send it as an attachment to dave@davekingedits.com. I prefer Word but can read most formats.
Other Questions?
Please feel free to call or e-mail me at any time.