Editing is the final step before you begin submitting your short story or manuscript to publishers. I would never encourage writers to seek out an editor until they feel their manuscript is polished and has undergone at least some critique from (hopefully) other writers. You may feel it is polished enough to present, and therefore doesn't need an editor. However, in the current age, where even the slightest error may result in a rejection, or if you would like to self-publish—a feasible option—you may want a professional opinion, or edit.

I provide an in-depth analysis of your manuscript. I simply can't read through a novel without marking a page, assuming it's required. I will provide an overview, a complete assessment of the story as a whole and its development, examining the plot according to structure (introduction, rising action, climax/anticlimax, falling action and conclusion) and external and internal character elements. If you don't know what these are, refer to Writing Tips on my blog. Then I begin to dissect it, examining voice, characterization, point of view, conflict, dialogue, pace and individual elements of plot. I inspect chapters for dynamic scenes. I don't stop at pointing out problems, I often offer suggestions for solutions.

As I read through your manuscript, I also proofread. I do line edits concerned with grammar, spelling and punctuation. I comment on flow, clarity and consistency. I analyze for unintentional repetition and any issues with language such as sentence structure and overuse of weak adverbs and adjectives. But I will only suggest a change if it doesn't interfere with your voice. However, I am not a copyeditor. If your work requires extensive grammar repair, I will make other recommendations and not charge you for the work I've done.

I am constructive. I will not rip apart your work to such a degree that you feel discouraged. It's easy to feel this way after working so hard to complete a novel, and it is a remarkable achievement. However, I will not sugarcoat things either. If the manuscript needs more work, I will tell you and attempt to show you how to improve it. I've been considered somewhat of a mentor to my clients and students—I'd like to see you succeed and I will guide you through the process of improving your writing.