Top Editing Mistakes You Should Know
Writing a book demands attention to detail. You need to be very meticulous. Simple mistakes can injure the authenticity of your book. Thus, take your time to edit it. Turn to proofreaders for hire. Don’t make the following book editing mistakes.
Grammar Mistakes
Grammar is the basic language structure used when creating sentences. There are several grammatical mistakes you can make. Common ones include the use of wrong words, using a word that confuses the reader, parallelism (this is the use of faulty sentence structure), and shifting verb tenses.
Other grammatical errors include:
- Sprawl
- Misplaced modifiers
- Antecedent agreement
- Incorrect pronouns
Thus, it’s important to avoid these mistakes by learning the basic grammar rules. If you don’t have the time to master grammar rulers, hire a good proofreader. There are several companies out there offering proofreading services. Conduct your research and hire the right company.
Misspelled Words, Typos
Typos can ruin the reputation of your company. They can even embarrass you. Avoid typo mistakes. Don’t misspell the words. Before submitting your documents to the publishing desk, revise it. Alternatively, you can contract a proofreading company to do it for you.
Punctuation Errors
The work of the punctuation system is to separate and enhance sentences. They enhance the clarity of sentences. Editors should master punctuation marks. This includes demanding commas, apostrophes, and hyphens. Others include mystifying commas, quotation marks, etc.
When writing, these errors can arise. For instance, you can easily omit, misuse, or use spliced commas. The best way to correct these errors is to proofread your work. Taking time to proofread your content will make you look more credible and dependable.
Also, be sure to learn the basic punctuation rules. You can also use an editing tool or editing company to proofread your work.
Wrong Citation
Citation is a critical aspect of writing. Using the right citation style makes you consistent, reliable, and authentic. Use a citation manual to get the basic citation rules right.
When citing a source, use a manual that applies to your topic as well as genre. These guides are aimed at making your writing consistent when it comes to tone, style, as well as voice. Also, the manual gives you clear rules on how to accurately cite and put references in your paper or book.
General Writing Weaknesses
Repetitive words can be annoying. The same applies to clinches, sticky words, and crutch words. These writing weaknesses can negatively impact your prose. The best way to deal with these issues is to use a writing tool. Top editing and proofreading companies have the best tools to deal with these issues.
Identifying these issues on your own can be difficult. Let your prose shine with uniqueness. Use a writing tool or company to make your content great again.
Editing When Writing
Don’t edit while writing. Remember, these are two different processes. While writing involves the creative mind, editing touches on the technical aspect. For the best results, allow your brain to enjoy each process. Write first. You can edit it later.
Don’t write continuously. Take frequent breaks. Consider reading your content aloud when editing.
Over Relying On Self-Editing
Self-editing is good. However, don’t over-rely on it. There are mistakes you cannot identify. Finding certified editors will hugely benefit your book. Highly trained and experienced, professional editors will use their expertise to make your book look logical, professional, and authentic.
Book Editing Process
Editing is an essential element of book writing. The process takes time. It requires resources. Thus, before looking for a book editor, it’s important to understand the basics of this process. Here are a few things all book authors should know about the editing process.
The First Step
First, you must self-edit your book to eliminate visible errors. From here, your book will be taken to the editorial review desk. Here, your book will be assessed. The review tells editors the level of editing and proofreading required before sending it to the publishing desk. It will also tell the type of edit your manuscript needs.
Duration
The editing company will return the editorial review results within a week. This will inform the agreement you will enter with the editorial company.
Cost
Usually, big companies don’t charge for editorial reviews. However, you will need to pay for copyediting services. It should be around $0.12-$0.18 per word. This is for a one-pass-based copyediting. On the other hand, a two-part copyediting exercise can cost you something like $0.04 to $0.7 per word.
Importance Of Book Editing
Editing is very important. Besides eliminating spelling errors and other mistakes, editing makes your work look authentic. People will take your book seriously. It will increase sales. Thus, if you want to take your book to another level, take it for editing.
The Benefits of Professional Editing
If you have the skills and time, you can self-edit. However, if you are not an expert in editing and proofreading, consider hiring a trusted editor to help you. Professional editors are experienced in identifying various mistakes and correcting them in real-time. They have the time to make your book meticulous.
The Importance of Genre in Book Editing
There are editors on the market. Each editor has his/her specialization. Thus, it’s important to look for an editor who specializes in your genre. Besides identifying and correcting mistakes, a genre-specific editor will recommend areas you should improve to make your book shine. Also, he/she understands the right writing style.
Use An Editing Style Guide
Style guides, which are specific to each genre, are designed to make your writing and editing consistent. Editors refer to style guides when editing books. This helps meet certain editorial standards.
Key Takeaway
A good book should be error-free. Take your book for editing to get rid of all possible errors. Don’t submit it for publishing with errors. It will dent your reputation. Hire the right editor. Give him/her instructions. Allow the process to take place naturally.
The Bottom-Line
Effective book writing is all about flawless editing. Good editing eliminates common mistakes. From spelling mistakes to sentence structure, good editing will make your book incredible. Avoid the above mistakes when editing a book.
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