Writing a novel is a very personal and powerful undertaking. The journey from typing in isolation to releasing your words to the world as a Book can feel both confusing and intimidating. These are some of the questions almost every new writer asks along the way.
- What if my novel isn’t done yet?
- We can still talk about your vision for your book. If you have the budget for it, you can consider a developmental edit. If not, maybe a first chapter read will help. Or hop into a writers’ critique group (virtual is fine!) for peer feedback.
- What about editing software?
- We all use software in one form or another, from simple spell-checkers to advanced analysis applications and macros for Word. In the end, these are helpful tools that require the user to make intelligent decisions based on algorithms. For example, the predictive text function on your smartphone can be helpful, but it cannot compose your messages for you. Software does not replace the human brain…yet!
- Should I have an editor review my first draft?
- Unless you obsessively revise and correct while you write, probably not. You can, however, arrange for a manuscript evaluation at several levels — from a first chapter read to a full beta read. Note that this is NOT the same as developmental editing.
- Should I worry that an editor might steal my idea?
- Nah. There are no new ideas. In fact, there are only 7 basic plots. What you DO with your idea, what you write, is the part that is unique and wonderful. Don’t sweat this one.
- Okay, so what if an editor steals my whole manuscript?
- Stealing an idea or a whole book from an unsuspecting author might be a good plot for a movie, but it’s also extremely unlikely. Editors earn their keep by helping their client authors succeed, not by hijacking your words. Those who steal novels and post them for sale are simply crooks, and are unlikely to masquerade as editors.
- What is the preferred format for sharing a manuscript with an editor or agent?
- MS Word files are the industry standard, but Google’s Doc is also easy to work with and is easily converted to Word (.docx). Use Times Roman, 12 pt, double-spaced, 1″ margins with indented first line paragraphs. Note that in this era of in-file editing, that double line spacing (originally to allow room for notes) is no longer mandatory.
