To Self-Edit or Not To Self-Edit (But It’ll Cost You)

Good day, mates!





I have been writing since I could write, and I’ve always been a fan of just going off at the cuff. I would write for hours as a kid and later a teen, editing as I went. Some writers actually frown at this though. Why? Because you should just let it all flow freely until the very end, when the story is complete.





But I am what I am! I am a writer who edits as she writes!





Sue me!





I actually self-edit because I have the know-how to do it. If there’s something I don’t know I am willing to seek outside help and understanding until I know better. Then when I know better, I do better! See that? It always works out. Yet, it is heavily encouraged that when you have the funds (because you will most certainly need the money for it) you should hire a professional editor. Someone who is outside of you, able to catch those things that you weren’t able to.





The more I think on it the more desirable it sounds. However, you really do have to make sure you are able to pay the normal asking price for a quality editor if you really want your story/book to POP! That can run you anywhere from $25/hr – $80/hr, depending on the level of editing you need. And the number of pages or words. It sounds intimidating, but it’s definitely something to consider if you don’t want to have control over the process of bringing your story to fruition–you just want to write. Which makes sense as a writer. You just want to do the creative piece of it all. All of the other running parts you can leave to a pro if you are able to.





But that’s where I come into play for myself.





That’s why I aim to learn as much as I possibly can about editing so I can do my OWN editing. Or maybe I’m just a big control freak and don’t want anyone touching my sh*t because I’m sensitive about it (shout to E. Badu). I do enjoy doing it myself. The hard work of reading over your own story and the creation you just manifested may be daunting, but it’s something I would do over and over again. And I have!





As a writer, though, I will say if you have the means, certainly get an editor if you don’t want to edit your story yourself. Or you’re not good at it and feel you will benefit greatly from having an outside resource. There’s nothing wrong with it. Just make sure you have your ducks in a row money-wise, and go for broke if you can. Half-assed editing is not cute!




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Published on October 14, 2019 12:44
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