A large number of writers who approach me about professional editing don't know what type of editing they need. There's nothing wrong with that, and I am always happy to discuss options and help clients understand which editing service will benefit their manuscript the most.

That said, having an idea of where to begin makes the process simpler when you do contact an editor. If you're considering professional editing, go through the choices below to find out whether you're ready to get the most out of the editing process and what type of editing will be best for your manuscript.

Before we get started, here are a few basic terms.

High-Level Editing. This type of editing address elements including plot, structure, character development, setting, etc. During high-level editing, we deal with pages and paragraphs and address the manuscript from a broad perspective.

Low-Level Editing. This type of editing deals with style, readability, grammar, punctuation, etc. This is editing of the prose—words and sentences.

Beta Reader. This is someone who reads the manuscript after self-editing but before professional editing. The ideal beta reads often in the genre and is able to offer constructive feedback.

Ready? Answer the questions below to determine which editing service is the best fit for you!

​If you follow me on Twitter or are part of the Community of Readers & Writers, you may have noticed some crickets as of late. It's been a busy time. Of course, the holidays are always hectic, but I've also been taking care of this little monster, the world's greatest chewer, digger, and stick collector.