To edit or not to edit, that is the question. Editing your manuscript is a very important topic, indeed! When finishing your first novel, a common question is: Should I edit your manuscript before submitting it to publishers?

The simple answer is: YES!

Improve Your Chances of Publication

The more evolved answer is it’s highly recommended that you edit your manuscript thoroughly before submitting it to publishers. An edited manuscript demonstrates your professionalism and increases the likelihood of your work being seriously considered. Here are some steps to follow in the editing process:

1. Self-editing: Read through your manuscript multiple times, checking for clarity, consistency, pacing, and overall structure. Pay attention to grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.
2. Seek feedback: Share your manuscript with trusted friends, family, or writing group members for constructive feedback. This can provide valuable insights and highlight areas that may need improvement.
3. Revise: Incorporate the feedback you receive into your manuscript. Be open to making changes, even if it means reworking significant portions of your text.
4. Hire a professional editor: Depending on your budget and the complexity of your manuscript, consider hiring a professional editor. They can provide comprehensive editing services, including developmental, line, and proofreading.
5. Final review: After completing the editing process, read through your manuscript one last time to ensure it is polished and error-free. Some authors even benefit from reading their novel aloud and recording it. When listening back, you can easily find errors or any tricky issues with the plot and characters.

By presenting a well-edited manuscript, you increase your chances of capturing the interest of publishers and ultimately getting your work published.

Do editors accept poorly edited material?

Editors may accept poorly edited material, but it depends on the content’s quality, the work’s potential, and the specific editor’s preferences. However, submitting a poorly edited manuscript can significantly decrease your chances of acceptance for several reasons:

1. First impressions matter: A polished and well-edited manuscript demonstrates professionalism and dedication to your craft. It shows that you respect the editor’s time and take your work seriously.
2. Increased workload for editors: A poorly edited manuscript means more work for the editor, who will need to spend extra time and effort on revisions, corrections, and clarifications. This may make them less inclined to accept your submission.
3. Competition: Many writers are vying for the attention of editors and publishers. Submitting a well-edited manuscript increases your chances of standing out in a competitive market.
4. Quality concerns: A poorly edited manuscript may raise questions about the quality of the content and the writer’s ability to communicate effectively.

Invest time and effort into editing your manuscript thoroughly before submitting it to editors to maximize your chances of acceptance. This improves the overall quality of your work and demonstrates your commitment to your craft.