How to Work with an Editor: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Handing your manuscript over to an editor can feel a little like showing someone your soul in Word doc form. Vulnerable. Nerve-wracking. Maybe even a little terrifying.

But it can also be one of the most transformative parts of your writing journey—if you know what to expect and how to get the most out of it. 🛠️📚

Here’s your no-fluff guide to working with an editor (and actually enjoying the process):

👥 Know Which Type of Edit You’re Getting

There are different types of edits your manuscript needs before publication. Before anything else, clarify what kind of feedback you’re paying for:

– Developmental Edit: Big-picture work. Plot, pacing, character arcs, structure.
– Line Edit: Sentence-level polishing. Voice, flow, tone, word choice.
– Copyedit: Grammar, punctuation, clarity, consistency.
– Proofread: Final typo hunt after layout.

Each stage serves a different purpose—and you don’t want to skip the early ones and go straight to proofreading.

🧼 Clean Up Your Draft First

Before you hit “send,” do a self-edit. Cut the obvious clutter. Fix the easy typos. Make sure the manuscript is as strong as you can make it on your own.

Editors aren’t there to write for you. They’re there to take what’s solid and make it shine. 💡

📂 Send What They Ask For—Nothing More, Nothing Less

If your editor asks for a Word doc in 12 pt Times New Roman with 1-inch margins, do exactly that.
If they want a synopsis or series info, include it.

It’s not about being picky—it’s about efficiency. Help them help you.

💬 Be Open to Feedback (Even When It Stings)

Yes, it’s your book. But if your editor’s doing their job, they’re going to push you.

→ Some suggestions will feel instantly right.
→ Some will make you want to argue.
→ And some will hit a nerve because they’re telling you the truth you already knew.

Breathe. Take a beat. Re-read the notes tomorrow. Growth happens in the pause.

🛡️ Ask Questions, Set Boundaries

Not sure why something was cut? Ask.
Feel strongly about keeping a scene? Say so.

A good editor is a partner, not a dictator. The goal is collaboration, not control. You can push back respectfully—and you should if something doesn’t sit right, but first, take some time to let the sting settle. If the feedback then opens up possibilities and stretches you as a writer, it’s the right thing to do. If it still feels like it goes against your vision for the story, ask some questions to figure out what’s behind the critique. Often, it’s the editor identifying something that is missing or isn’t working in your story, and knowing what that is can help you find a different solution.

✅ What You Should Expect in Return

– A clear timeline and scope of work
– Notes that are specific, constructive, and actionable
– Professionalism and encouragement (even when the feedback is tough)

You should leave the edit knowing exactly what your next steps are.

Bottom line?
Working with an editor is like strength training for your book. It’s not always comfortable, but it builds something strong, intentional, and lasting.

So prep well. Stay curious. And remember—if an editor sees potential, it means the story is already worth fighting for. 💛✍️

Need a thorough, encouraging, and helpful edit? We’ve got you covered!