Line Editing
Line editing is a service dedicated specifically to writing style. The goal is to improve how the book writes about its information, plot, characters, subject matter, themes, dialogue, and more. Not every writer needs this service. It’s a great learning experience for new writers or writers stuck in bad habits or ruts. The service includes in-text edits (using Tracked Changes) and comments as well as a debrief call to review the things that stuck out.
What to Expect
We get acquainted with each other and the project via Zoom, phone call, or email.
Happy with everything, we sign a contract, and a retainer is paid (20% of the total cost).
I edit the full book using Microsoft Word Tracked Changes and comments.
Before I return the line edits on deadline, I expect the remaining balance to be paid.
I send the line edits via email in Microsoft Word.
We debrief over Zoom, phone call, or email for up to sixty minutes to answer your questions after reading the material.
Some authors pay me by the hour to review updates after the line edits either via Tracked Changes, chapter by chapter, or in full.
Like developmental editing, I could list the best (or bad) practices I’m looking out for ‘til the cows come home, but below is just a taste.
Fiction
Showing, not telling (when appropriate).
Writing realistic dialogue.
Building suspense.
Using descriptive imagery creatively.
Using figurative language effectively.
Maintaining consistency in characterization.
Utilizing character body language.
Minimizing over-exposition.
Minimizing over-explaining (in characters and descriptions).
Eliminating passive voice where possible.
Removing cliches and cheesy content.
Pacing action so readers can follow it.
Transitioning scenes fluidly.
Creating personality for characters.
Developing chemistry for romantic storylines.
Maintaining sensitivity for a variety of reader demographics.
Nonfiction
Avoiding needless controversy.
Providing clear, logical order of thoughts.
Writing succinct, descriptive headings.
Accounting for accurate use of sources (credible, within its context, etc.).
Incorporating sources meaningfully.
Adding figurative language and other tools to elaborate on a complex or abstract thought.
Maintaining clear and concise wording.
Developing rapport with the reader.
Using sentence variety.- Demonstrating personal perspective (not robotic or cheesy).
Avoiding cliches and overwritten subjects.
Keeping the piece as timelessly applicable as possible.
Avoiding second-person postures ("you" form sentences).