Types of Editors

"What kind of editor do I need?"
(2 min read)

Excellent question! It depends on what stage of the process you are in and the needs you identify. It likely also realistically depends on your budget.



There are four generally accepted types of editors:

• Developmental Editors
• Line Editors
• Copyeditors
• Proofreaders

What is a Developmental Editor?
This is your "big picture" editor and the first line of editors you may hire. This person reviews your story arc, chapter organization, and offers suggestions about your genre or ways to tighten up your story line.

What is a Line Editor?
This editor works more at the paragraph and sentence level to ensure smooth flow of your work. This is where language and style improvement happens. 

What is a Copyeditor?
This is often who you think of when you think "editor." These editors look at grammar, spelling, punctuation, fact checking, and general consistency.

What is a Proofreader?
A proofreader is your final check to make sure there are no typos, double words, incorrect words (to, too, vs two), or punctuation errors. They even check typesetting to be sure headings are consistent and there are no "orphans" or "widows" - words that hyphenate poorly across pages or paragraphs. Proofreading and Copyediting are two distinctly different services but often blend together for authors. Many such editors ensure they're proficient at both levels to offer both services. 

Extra Book Assistants

• A ghostwriter writes on your behalf. You may have a story burning inside you but have no time or talent to actually write the work. A ghostwriter would partner with you to get your voice on paper and into the world.
• Alpha or Beta Readers are an audience guide to help an author be sure the work resonates with readers. They help catch any jarring transitions or inconsistencies in characters or plot that weren't necessarily addressed by editors who more deal with the words on the page. These may be paid or free services. 

"Aunt Suzy" is Not a Good Editor
Whoever you ask to assist you in the editing process of your book, it really is worth spending at least some money for fresh, unbiased eyes to review your work to make it the best it can be. "Aunt Suzy" may have been a high school or college teacher, but she loves you dearly and will read as if you're absolutely brilliant. 

It is not unusual for humans to "read" words that are not actually in print. As the author, we know what we mean to say so may "read" words that aren't on the page. It's also easy to more quickly skim the work rather than see every dotted "i" or crossed "t" for errors in words or punctuation. In writing the work, you've reviewed and looked at the work so many times, you become a bit "blind" to how it may flow or read to others. 

I've added a couple of resources for your reference.
This post summarizes and touches lightly on the differences between the types of editors. The Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA) offers publicly available resources to help guide you including a more extensive Guide and a Rate Chart to help you budget for editors.

You've poured your heart, soul, and time into this work - doesn't it deserve the best treatment with editing services optimizing it? 

I provide a number of services - including proofreading and copyediting - for nonprofits, small businesses, entrepreneurs, and authors. I look forward to discussing ways to Engage your customers - Let's Chat!

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EFA - Hiring an Editor Guide

EFA Rate Chart