What is the difference between a writing coach and an editor?
A writing coach focuses on helping you develop your writing skills, refine your ideas, and stay motivated throughout the writing process. They provide guidance, feedback, and support as you work on your manuscript. An editor, on the other hand, focuses on improving your manuscript through structural, stylistic, and grammatical revisions.
I am both a coach and an editor helping you tell your story as you want to tell it. I’ll help you describe the events in your life as if the reader was experiencing them as you did. I’ll help you negotiate difficult subjects, especially as they might affect those you love the most. I’ll prepare you for the reactions of your readers, good and bad.
What types of editing services do you offer?
Editing services typically include developmental editing (big-picture feedback on structure, plot, character development, etc.), line editing (focus on style, clarity, and flow), copy editing (correcting grammar, punctuation, and syntax), and proofreading (final review for typos and minor errors). Some editors also “fact-check” to eliminate inaccuracies or memory lapses.
How do I know if I need a writing coach or an editor?
If you’re struggling with starting, organizing, or completing your manuscript, or if you need ongoing support and accountability, a writing coach may be beneficial. If you have a completed draft and need help refining and polishing it, an editor is likely the right choice. Some authors may benefit from both services at different stages of their writing process.
How much do writing coaching and editing services cost?
Costs can vary widely depending on the experience of the coach or editor, the type and depth of service required, and the length of the manuscript. Writing coaching may be billed hourly or as a package, while editing is often charged per word, page, or hour. It’s important to discuss fees upfront and ensure there is a clear understanding of the scope of work and payment terms.
The best way to proceed is to question potential coaches and editors about their services, experience, philosophy, and patience with new writers. Personality conflicts rarely end in good stories.
Do you accept credit cards or other means of payment?
I accept current Visa and Mastercard credit cards for payment as well as Paypal. Personal checks are also accepted, but work will not begin until funds are received.
Contracts with me through Fiverr, Upwork, or other contracting sites will be handled by the particular site and are separate from work contracted directly with me.
How long does the editing process take?
The timeline for editing depends on the length of the manuscript, the level of editing required, and the editor’s current workload. A developmental edit might take several weeks to a few months, while a copy edit or proofread may take a shorter time. It’s essential to communicate deadlines and expectations with your editor.
Can you provide samples of your work or references from past clients?
I provide samples of my work on the website. This will help you gauge my editing style and see if it aligns with your needs. I’ll also edit of a few pages of your manuscript to demonstrate my approach.
I will provide client references to serious prospects. One of the values I provide to my clients is confidentiality and respect for their time. Also, potential clients can directly contact the authors of the ghostwritten books, most of which are available on Amazon’s website.
How involved will you be in the creative process?
I will work closely with you once your initial draft is complete, respecting your voice and vision while offering constructive feedback. My goal is to enhance your work without changing the essence of your style or message. Working with a completed manuscript – even a rough version – is the easiest, most efficient way to ensure I understand your goals. preferences, and style.  I am available to provide limited feedback during your initial drafting process due to time constraints and fairness to other clients,
What can I expect from our collaboration?
Our collaboration should be a supportive and productive experience for both parties. I will provide regular communication and detailed feedback (including sample passages) to improve your manuscript.
I will always respect your voice and vision when offering constructive feedback. I understand that our product is your story, not mine. You will always make the decision about what is included in the narrative.Â
I would expect to discuss and confirm our working process up front, including schedules, deliA good coach or editor will respect your voice and vision while offering constructive feedback. They should enhance your work without changing the essence of your style or message. It’s important to communicate your goals and preferences clearly to ensure alignment.erables
It’s important to discuss the working process, including how often you’ll meet, how feedback will be delivered, and what the overall timeline will look like.
How do you handle conflicts or disagreements about payments?
Your satisfaction is fully guaranteed. In the event of a dispute, the charges for my work will be refunded within ten (10) business days and your written promise that you will not use any of my work product for your personal or business use.
What is the next step after I hire you?
Once you decide to hire me, we will discuss your goals, the scope of the project, your expectations, and agree on a timeline and cost. I will prepare a contract or agreement that you will need to electronically sign it and return to me before work begins to ensure clarity and protect both parties.
My fees for work and payment terms will be disclosed in the contract. I will bill for and expect a deposit from you of $200.00 payable online with a Visa or Mastercard credit card or through Paypal at the initiation of the contract. Any fees charged will be subtracted from the deposit when invoiced. Payment of Fees after the deposit is depleted is expected within one calendar week (seven days) after billing.
