Content Editing

Everything Editing: What it is, how to do it, and how to hire it out

Jennifer Crosswhite — Wed, 19 Nov 2025 21:05:02 GMT

Current Revision posted to Content Editing by Jennifer Crosswhite on 11/19/2025 9:05:02 PM

Whether you're polishing your first manuscript or preparing your tenth book for publication, understanding the editing process can mean the difference between good writing and great writing. Author and editor Jennifer Crosswhite demystifies the entire editing journey, teaches practical self-editing techniques, and guides you through the business of hiring professionals—from finding qualified editors and evaluating samples to understanding pricing and building productive working relationships.

Here is the handout referenced in the session:
www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../Everything-Editing_5F00_ALC-Handout.pdf
www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../EverythingEditingWhatitishowtodoitandhowtohireitout.mp4
About the Presenter:
Jennifer Crosswhite is owner and CEO of Tandem Services, an author services company that empowers influencers to harness the transformative power of story to spread their message, create an impact, and leave a legacy. Her twenty years’ experience spans both sides of the publishing desk, from managing editor to author of 20 books and counting.

Tags: fiction, Nonfiction, Subscriber, Recorded Webinar

Everything Editing: What it is, how to do it, and how to hire it out

Author Learning Center — Wed, 19 Nov 2025 21:02:36 GMT

Revision 1 posted to Content Editing by Author Learning Center on 11/19/2025 9:02:36 PM

Whether you're polishing your first manuscript or preparing your tenth book for publication, understanding the editing process can mean the difference between good writing and great writing. Author and editor Jennifer Crosswhite will demystify the entire editing journey, teach practical self-editing techniques, and guide you through the business of hiring professionals—from finding qualified editors and evaluating samples to understanding pricing and building productive working relationships.

Tags: fiction, Nonfiction, Subscriber, Recorded Webinar

The Importance of Beta Readers and Professional Editors in Getting Honest Feedback

Aleatha Romig — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 19:20:00 GMT

Current Revision posted to Content Editing by Aleatha Romig on 9/1/2023 7:20:00 PM

The editing process can differ greatly from author to author, but one thing that successful authors like Aleatha Romig have in common is that they have a multi-stage process. When finished with a manuscript, Romig first works with a group of beta readers that she's had for over ten years, some of whom she's known since high school. These readers know her and her writing well and are good at catching inconsistencies or pointing out things they don't understand. This honest feedback is very helpful to Romig, and she knows it's feedback she can trust.

Romig then works with a long-time professional editor that does both developmental and line editing. They go through three rounds which takes about a month. Romig's manuscript then goes to a proofreader for one last round which takes about two weeks.

With over fifty titles in her portfolio of romance books, this multi-stage process ensures her published books are professional and well-written. It also allows her to make small fixes and changes throughout versus doing major rewrites.

www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../TheImportanceofBetaReadersandProfessionalEditorsinGettingHonestFeedback.mp4

Tags: fiction, Nonfiction, video

The Importance of Beta Readers and Professional Editors in Getting Honest Feedback

Aleatha Romig — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 18:52:27 GMT

Revision 4 posted to Content Editing by Aleatha Romig on 9/1/2023 6:52:27 PM

The editing process can differ greatly from author to author, but one thing that successful authors like Aleatha Romig have in common is that they have a multi-level process. When finished with a manuscript, Romig first works with a group of beta readers that she's had for over ten years, some of whom she's known since high school. These readers know her and her writing well and are good at catching inconsistencies or pointing out things they don't understand. This honest feedback is very helpful to Romig, and she knows it's feedback she can trust.

Romig then works with a long-time professional editor that does both developmental and line editing. They go through three rounds which takes about a month. Romig's manuscript then goes to a proofreader for one last round which takes about two weeks.

With over fifty titles in her portfolio of romance books, this multi-level process ensures her published books are professional and well-written. It also allows her to make small fixes and changes throughout versus doing major rewrites.

www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../TheImportanceofBetaReadersandProfessionalEditorsinGettingHonestFeedback.mp4

Tags: fiction, Nonfiction, video

The Importance of Beta Readers and Professional Editors in Getting Honest Feedback

Aleatha Romig — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 18:51:31 GMT

Revision 3 posted to Content Editing by Aleatha Romig on 9/1/2023 6:51:31 PM

The editing process can differ greatly from author to author, but one thing that successful authors like Aleatha Romig have in common is that they have a multi-level process. When finished with a manuscript, Romig first works with a group of beta readers that she's had for over 10 years, some of whom she's known since high school. These readers know her and her writing well and are good at catching inconsistencies or pointing out things they don't understand. This honest feedback is very helpful to Romig, and she knows it's feedback she can trust.

Romig then works with a long-time professional editor that does both developmental and line editing. They go through three rounds which takes about a month. Romig's manuscript then goes to a proofreader for one last round which takes about two weeks.

With over 50 titles in her portfolio of romance books, this multi-level process ensures her published books are professional and well-written. It also allows her to make small fixes and changes throughout versus doing major rewrites.

www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../TheImportanceofBetaReadersandProfessionalEditorsinGettingHonestFeedback.mp4

Tags: fiction, Nonfiction, video

The Importance of Beta Readers and Professional Editors in Getting Honest Feedback

Aleatha Romig — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 18:50:08 GMT

Revision 2 posted to Content Editing by Aleatha Romig on 9/1/2023 6:50:08 PM

The editing process can differ greatly from author to author, but one thing that successful authors like Aleatha Romig have in common is that they have a multi-level process. When finished with a manuscript, Romig first works with a group of beta readers that she's had for over 10 years, some of whom she's known since high school. These readers know her and her writing well and are good at catching inconsistencies or pointing out things they don't understand. This honest feedback is very helpful to Romig, and she knows it's feedback she can trust.

Romig then works with a long-time professional editor that does both developmental and line editing. They go through three rounds which takes about a month. Romig's manuscript then goes to a proofreader for one last round which takes about 2 weeks.

With over 50 titles in her portfolio of romance books, this multi-level process ensures her published books are professional and well-written. It also allows her to make small fixes and changes throughout versus doing major rewrites.

www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../TheImportanceofBetaReadersandProfessionalEditorsinGettingHonestFeedback.mp4

Tags: fiction, Nonfiction, video

The Importance of Beta Readers and Professional Editors in Getting Honest Feedback

Aleatha Romig — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 15:16:19 GMT

Revision 1 posted to Content Editing by Aleatha Romig on 9/1/2023 3:16:19 PM

The editing process can differ greatly from author to author, but one thing that successful authors like Aleatha Romig have in common is that they have a multi-level process. When finished with a manuscript, Romig first works with a group of beta readers that she's had for over 10 years, some of whom she's known since high school. These readers know her and her writing well and are good at catching inconsistencies or pointing out things they don't understand. This honest feedback is very helpful to Romig, and she knows it's feedback she can trust.

Romig then works with a long-time professional editor that does both developmental and line editing. They go through three rounds which takes about a month. Romig's manuscript then goes to a proofreader for one last round which takes about 2 weeks.

With over 50 titles in her portfolio of romance books, this multi-level process ensures her published books are professional and well-written. It also allows her to make small fixes and changes throughout versus doing major rewrites.

Getting Your Book Properly Edited When You’re on a Budget

Mike Robinson — Fri, 06 Jan 2023 13:32:38 GMT

Current Revision posted to Content Editing by Mike Robinson on 1/6/2023 1:32:38 PM

Having your book professionally edited is critical to publishing the best possible book. While editing can be a significant chunk of your publishing budget, there are ways to streamline these costs. Award-winning author and editor recommends working with beta readers once your manuscript is complete and after you've taken some significant breaks from the piece. Beta readers are individuals in your network that are willing to read your manuscript, usually at no cost, and provide honest feedback.

Once you receive this feedback and make any necessary changes, you should work with an experienced editor. Robinson recommends attending events and conferences to meet editors in person or to get referrals from other authors. You can also search for freelance editors through websites such as Fiverr. Sometimes editors will be willing to negotiate a fee and many will provide a free assessment of several pages of your manuscript so that you can see if they are the right fit for you and your book.

www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../GettingYourBookProperlyEditedWhenYoureonaBudget.mp4

Tags: fiction, Nonfiction, video

Getting Your Book Properly Edited When You’re on a Budget

Mike Robinson — Thu, 05 Jan 2023 17:39:54 GMT

Revision 1 posted to Content Editing by Mike Robinson on 1/5/2023 5:39:54 PM

For affordable editing, award-winning author and editor Mike Robinson recommends working with beta readers and editors you find through networking.

www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../GettingYourBookProperlyEditedWhenYoureonaBudget.mp4

Tags: fiction, Nonfiction, video

Make it Sing: The Why, When, and How of Working with an Editor

Helga Schier — Fri, 17 Jun 2022 12:45:13 GMT

Current Revision posted to Content Editing by Helga Schier on 6/17/2022 12:45:13 PM

Stephen King once said, “To write is human, to edit is divine.” As an editor, I love that sentiment, but I know that many writers are not so sure what exactly an editor does. What’s the difference between a development editor and a copy editor? When does proofreading come in? Will an editor change my story or mess with my voice? Do I even really need an editor? Can’t I just use a spellcheck and Grammarly and be done with it?

Editors are experienced readers and publishing professionals who will critically look at your work to help you ensure that your vision of your story translates to the words you put on paper.

This webinar with editor Helga Schier discusses:

• the different types of editing and when they are most beneficial to you and your work.
•  the pros and cons of self-editing and ways to determine if and when you are ready to consult a professional.
•  how and where to find the editor that is right for you and your project.
•  what you should expect from an editor and what an editor expects from you.
•  how to use an editor’s comments to your maximum benefit.
•  what to do when you disagree with an editor’s suggestions.
•  the difference between working with a freelance editor to prepare for submission to an agent or publisher and working with an editor in a publishing house.

Editors aim to build a bridge between you and your intended reader. Knowing when and how to work with an editor will help you unlock the potential of your manuscript.

Here are the handouts referenced in the session:
www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../ALC_5F00_Schier_5F00_Make-it-Sing_5F00_Handout.pdf
www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../ALC_5F00_Schier_5F00_Make-it-Sing_5F00_Beta_2D00_Reading_2D00_Worksheet.pdf

www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../MakeitSingTheWhyWhenandHowofWorkingwithanEditor.mp4

Tags: fiction, Nonfiction, Subscriber, Recorded Webinar

Make it Sing: The Why, When, and How of Working with an Editor

Author Learning Center — Fri, 17 Jun 2022 12:37:38 GMT

Revision 1 posted to Content Editing by Author Learning Center on 6/17/2022 12:37:38 PM

Editors are experienced readers and publishing professionals who will critically look at your work to help you ensure that your vision of your story translates to the words you put on paper.

This webinar with editor Helga Schier will discuss:
• the different types of editing and when they are most beneficial to you and your work.
• the pros and cons of self-editing and ways to determine if and when you are ready to consult a professional.
• how and where to find the editor that is right for you and your project.
• what you should expect from an editor and what an editor expects from you.
• how to use an editor’s comments to your maximum benefit.
• what to do when you disagree with an editor’s suggestions.
• the difference between working with a freelance editor to prepare for submission to an agent or publisher and working with an editor in a publishing house.

Editors aim to build a bridge between you and your intended reader. Knowing when and how to work with an editor will help you unlock the potential of your manuscript.

Tags: fiction, Nonfiction, Subscriber, Recorded Webinar

Top Ten Steps to a Successful Revision

Helga Schier — Thu, 04 Feb 2021 22:56:08 GMT

Current Revision posted to Content Editing by Helga Schier on 2/4/2021 10:56:08 PM

You just put the last period on the first draft of your manuscript. Now what? Resist the urge to go back to page 1 to start editing. You’ll get lost in details. Instead, edit with a plan that will guide you from fixing big picture issues like structure, pacing and point of view to making sure every comma and period is in the right place. This webinar with editor and writing coach Helga Schier offers strategies that will help you recognize and fix the most typical and frustrating storytelling mistakes. Discover the dangers of the forced plot twist and the cardboard character, explore ways to increase the power of your dialogue, and gather ideas that infuse every scene with forward movement. Ms. Schier also deals with the most common grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors and stylistic issues.

PLEASE NOTE: While this webinar focuses mainly on revising novels and memoirs, some general nonfiction tips are provided, and all types of writers will find something helpful in these ten steps!
www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../TopTenStepstoaSuccessfulRevision2021.mp4

Here is the handout referenced in the above recording:

www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../ALC-10-Revision-Steps_5F00_Schier-Handout.pdf

About the Presenter:
Helga Schier, Ph.D., is the founder and owner of withpenandpaper.com, an independent editorial services firm. She is also the editorial director of CamCat Books, www.camcatbooks.com, a publisher of quality genre fiction. With over 25 years of experience, Helga guides authors through the development and revision process. Helga's editorial work focuses on the refinement of story, character, and style, helping writers sharpen their vision, refine their voice, and unlock the potential of their manuscripts. Her clients are published, self-published, and not-yet-published writers. Helga has published essays on contemporary English and American fiction, and translated numerous novels and memoirs. Contact her at helga@withpenandpaper.com or visit www.withpenandpaper.com.

Tags: fiction, Nonfiction, Subscriber, Recorded Webinar

Top Ten Steps to a Successful Revision

Author Learning Center — Thu, 04 Feb 2021 17:33:13 GMT

Revision 4 posted to Content Editing by Author Learning Center on 2/4/2021 5:33:13 PM

PLEASE NOTE: While this webinar focuses mainly on revising novels and memoirs, some general nonfiction tips are provided, and all types of writers will find something helpful in these ten steps!

www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../TopTenStepstoaSuccessfulRevision.mp4

Here is the handout referenced in the above recording:

www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../ALC-10-Revision-Steps_5F00_Schier-Handout.pdf

Tags: fiction, Nonfiction, Subscriber, Recorded Webinar

Top Ten Steps to a Successful Revision

Author Learning Center — Thu, 04 Feb 2021 17:32:15 GMT

Revision 3 posted to Content Editing by Author Learning Center on 2/4/2021 5:32:15 PM

You just put the last period on the first draft of your manuscript. Now what? Resist the urge to go back to page 1 to start editing. You’ll get lost in details. Instead, edit with a plan that will guide you from fixing big picture issues like structure, pacing and point of view to making sure every comma and period is in the right place. This webinar with editor and writing coach Helga Schier will offer strategies that will help you recognize and fix the most typical and frustrating storytelling mistakes. Discover the dangers of the forced plot twist and the cardboard character, explore ways to increase the power of your dialogue, and gather ideas that infuse every scene with forward movement. Ms. Schier will also deal with the most common grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors and stylistic issues.

PLEASE NOTE: While this webinar focuses mainly on revising novels and memoirs, some general nonfiction tips will be provided, and all types of writers will find something helpful in these ten steps!

www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../TopTenStepstoaSuccessfulRevision.mp4

Here is the handout referenced in the above recording:

www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../ALC-10-Revision-Steps_5F00_Schier-Handout.pdf

Tags: fiction, Nonfiction, Subscriber, Recorded Webinar

The Importance of Using Beta Readers and Professional Editors in the Book Editing Process

AE Wasserman — Fri, 24 Jan 2020 18:40:45 GMT

Current Revision posted to Content Editing by AE Wasserman on 1/24/2020 6:40:45 PM

Beta readers and professional editors are necessary to the book writing process, explains author AE Wasserman. Beta readers bring a fresh perspective to your work, and an editor brings experience and knowledge of the industry. The first time Wasserman worked with an editor, he told her one of her characters was “cardboard,” and not very interesting. She took this input into consideration and rewrote the character, ending up with someone who her readers love and who is the protagonist of his own spin-off novel. Wasserman reminds authors that editors don’t just catch typos – they are also looking at the storylines, plot holes, and underdeveloped ideas. While writing is a solitary endeavor, Wasserman says that at some point, every author needs to bring in beta readers and editors to make your book the best it can be.

www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../TheImportanceofUsingBetaReadersandProfessionalEditorsintheBookEditingProcess.mp4

Tags: fiction, Nonfiction, video

Top Ten Steps to a Successful Revision

Helga Schier — Wed, 21 Aug 2019 13:38:46 GMT

Revision 2 posted to Content Editing by Helga Schier on 8/21/2019 1:38:46 PM

NOTE: This recorded webinar is more focused on revising fiction and memoir manuscripts, but all types of writers will find something helpful in these ten steps!

You just put the last period on the first draft of your fiction book. Now what? Resist the urge to go back to page 1 to start editing. You’ll get lost in details. Instead, edit with a plan that will guide you from fixing big picture issues like structure, pacing and point of view to making sure every comma and period is in the right place. This webinar with editor and writing coach Helga Schier offers strategies that help you recognize and fix the most typical and frustrating storytelling mistakes. Discover the dangers of the forced plot twist and the cardboard character, explore ways to increase the power of your dialogue, and gather ideas that infuse every scene with forward movement. Schier also deals with the most common grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors and stylistic issues.

www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../TopTenStepstoaSuccessfulRevision.mp4

Here is the handout referenced in the above recording:

www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../ALC-2019-Schier_5F00_Revision-Steps.pdf

About the Presenter:

Helga Schier, Ph.D., is the founder and owner of withpenandpaper.com, an independent editorial services firm. With over 25 years of experience in the book publishing industry, formerly serving as editor and executive editor in several publishing houses, Ms. Schier guides authors through the development and revision process. Handling a manuscript like a diamond in the rough, Ms. Schier’s editorial work focuses on the refinement of story, character, and style, helping writers sharpen their vision, refine their voice, and unlock the potential of their manuscripts. Her clients are published, self-published, and not-yet-published writers. In addition to editing other writers’ work, Ms. Schier has published essays on contemporary English and American fiction, and has translated several screenplays, memoirs, and a novel series. Visit her website or contact her at helga@withpenandpaper.com or visit http://www.withpenandpaper.com/.

Tags: fiction, Nonfiction, Subscriber, Recorded Webinar

Top Ten Steps to a Successful Revision

Helga Schier — Wed, 21 Aug 2019 13:00:53 GMT

Revision 1 posted to Content Editing by Helga Schier on 8/21/2019 1:00:53 PM

NOTE: This recorded webinar is more focused on revising fiction and memoir manuscripts, but all types of writers will find something helpful in these ten steps!

www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../TopTenStepstoaSuccessfulRevision.mp4

Here is the handout referenced in the above recording:

www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../ALC-2019-Schier_5F00_Revision-Steps.pdf

About the Presenter:

Tags: fiction, Nonfiction, Subscriber, Recorded Webinar

Cultivating a Good Author Editor Relationship - podcast

David Colin Carr — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 12:49:18 GMT

Current Revision posted to Content Editing by David Colin Carr on 6/16/2017 12:49:18 PM

Writing coach and editor David Colin Carr explains how he likes to work with his clients. His insight might be helpful if you're considering hiring a professional editor for your manuscript, and you'll come away knowing what to expect from a true give-and-take working relationship.

www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../DavidCarrCultivatingaGoodAuthorEditorRelationshipALCWebinars003.mp3

Tags: fiction, Nonfiction, Subscriber, podcast

Cultivating a Good Author Editor Relationship - video

David Colin Carr — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 12:48:36 GMT

Current Revision posted to Content Editing by David Colin Carr on 6/16/2017 12:48:36 PM

www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../DavidCarrCultivatingaGoodAuthorEditorRelationshipALCWebinars003.mp4

Tags: fiction, Nonfiction, Subscriber, video

Cultivating a Good Author Editor Relationship - video

David Colin Carr — Mon, 09 Jan 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Revision 1 posted to Content Editing by David Colin Carr on 1/9/2017 12:00:00 AM

Writing Coach and editor, David Colin Carr, walks through the process of working with an editor and stresses that it is a relationship, one that has give and take.

www.authorlearningcenter.com/.../DavidCarrCultivatingaGoodAuthorEditorRelationshipALCWebinars003.mp4

Tags: fiction, Nonfiction, Subscriber, video