In my last blog post, we looked at some of the different types of editing and the stages at which you would need them. In this blog post, we will be continuing this, considering some of the narrower types of editing that you will need further along the way. It is important that you have all the different types of editing you need, as they each serve a separate function. Having all of them means that your work will be at its best.
Also, it is key that you have them done in the correct order, as there is no point paying for a proofread, then a developmental edit (which looks at the big picture such as plot and characters). You would have to pay for another proofread to review the amendments you have made as a result of the developmental edit, as well as any other editing you were going to have. This can end up being very expensive, as well as slowing you down.
Proofreading
Proofreading can be considered the last stage of the editing process. A proofreader’s job is to search for all the final errors, typically ones of spelling or grammar. A proofreader checks the final proof, which was traditionally a print from a metal plate. This was the last stage before the proofs headed to the printer, so it was vital that everything was correct.
Even now, a proofreader will often be the last person to check a manuscript, depending on the extent of formatting you need and whether you will be having an index, as we will be looking at in more detail below. They often still work from physical proofs, as it can be part of their job to check the formatting of the document as well.
A proofreader will be looking for a number of different things, with one of the key ones being the spelling and grammar of the piece. They should also check for inconsistencies in your style, for example, whether you use UK or US spellings. A proofreader will make sure the captions for images are correct and make sense, as well as reviewing the contents list and page numbers.
Your proofreader should also create a style sheet, which will contain all of your preferences. For example, it will list the spellings of any of your character and place names, as well as whether you use UK or US spellings (or a different style). It should also have a guide to the style you use for your headings, chapter breaks and starting a new paragraph. Essentially, it lists everything that makes your work your own and your proofreader will use this to ensure your work is consistent and correct.
Indexing
Indexing isn’t exactly editing, although an indexer may sometimes be called an index editor, but it is one of the services you will likely need for a nonfiction book before it is published. It is possible to have an index for a fiction work as well, especially if it is a long novel that spans many volumes. However, this is less common. Not all nonfiction books will have an index – consider what is normal for other books in your genre and what the benefits of having an index would be.
An index is essentially a map to your book, helping readers to find the relevant part of your book quickly and easily. It lists the important concepts, places and people in your work in alphabetical order, with page numbers by them. This helps readers that need to check back to something discussed earlier, but can’t remember exactly where it was, as well as people using your book for research that need to quickly find the right place.
It is best to get a professional indexer. It is possible to build your own index, but you may find that you miss out important elements so that the end result is unclear. A professional indexer will know the best way to put an index together, should have training, and will have software and tools to help them.
Formatting
Finally, your book will need to be put into the correct format for printing or publishing as an ebook. This has to be the last step, as any editing you have can change page numbers and the layout.
A formatter makes sure your book looks right – that the text is aligned, the margins are correct, the headings appear as they should, and all of the page numbers are in the right place and order. They should also ensure that the font is correct, remains the same and is in the right colour. Having a formatter is vital, as this makes your book look professional and ensures a good first impression.
Wrapping Up
I hope that this helps you decide where you are at in the editing process and what you still need. In my next blog post, we will be looking at the benefits of having beta readers, so come back in two weeks for that!
Want help proofreading your work? Contact Carmine Proofreading for a friendly, professional service from a qualified proofreader.
Email: CarmineProofreading@gmail.com
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