Thread by @DebNemeth

Today I thought I’d share some thoughts about being a freelance editor. My editorial experience is with genre fiction. #editing

Many freelance editors are also authors but it’s not necessary to be one, as the skill sets differ. #editing

Success as a writer doesn’t automatically translate to being able to edit effectively, and vice versa. #editing

Skill sets also differ between types of editors: content/developmental editing requires different strengths than proofreading. #editing

Many people wrongly believe that being good at grammar and spelling is the primary qualification for being a content editor. #editing

In fact those aren’t essential. What’s required is a sound knowledge of the many elements of writing craft, and a critical eye. #editing

Content editors need to be able to spot what’s working, what needs bolstering or cutting, and what’s missing in a manuscript. #editing

A freelance content editor should provide feedback in a supportive way, with specifics to guide an author through revisions. #editing

While content edits focus on the story itself (plot, characters, structure), line #editing is about the language used to tell that story.

Line editors evaluate every sentence and mark up manuscript files with feedback on word choice, syntax, clarity, tone, and flow. #editing

So content/developmental #editing involves in-depth story critiquing while line editing is akin to wordsmithing.

A book that has been content-edited may still contain a lot of typographical errors, because that's not a content editor's job. #editing

Copy editors focus on continuity, consistency, style mechanics. Proofreaders do the final pass for grammar/spelling/style. #editing

As the final steps for polishing prose, copy #editing and proofreading require excellent spelling and grammar, and a keen eye for detail.

Freelance editors will often specialize in only one or two types of edits. I do content and line editing. #editing

Any kind of freelance editing also requires boatloads of self-discipline and dependability so clients can count on your timeliness. #editing

Freelance editors should be willing to reject some prospective clients, to recognize you’re not the best editor for every project. #editing

I’m open to answering questions about my experience with freelance editing. #editing

If you’re starting out, ask yourself if your skills and knowledge are more suited to editing nonfiction or fiction. #editing

Some types of nonfiction editing may require specialized knowledge and skills such fact-checking and indexing. #editing

Fiction editors should know the market and specialize. Literary, commercial, juvenile or genre, & perhaps only certain genres. #editing