How to Self-Publish Your Book. Step 1: Editing

Let's say that you've written a book. You may have just finished your first draft or have already gone through multiple revisions. Either way, you're starting to think about the next steps you'll need to take to get your book in print. 

First of all, congratulations! That's an incredible accomplishment and deserves to be celebrated. 

Now that you've completed a first draft, you will need to find an editor to work with. It's essential that you find an editor you're comfortable with and trust and whose opinion you respect because their job is to cut and slash away at your beautifully written manuscript. 

Whether this is your first book or you're an experienced writer, it's critical that you don't get too attached to your work or your words at this point in the process. Make peace with the fact that it's an editor's job to make your book appeal to a larger audience. To do so, they will need to carve away at your book until the diamond reveals itself.

The editing process is often lengthy, frustrating, and even emotionally draining. And while you may not agree with all the edits your editor recommends, it's important to discuss their feedback without emotional attachment. Remember that anything cut can always be used somewhere else, in the form of a short story, a blog post, or even a second book. 

Either way, expect this part to be difficult and understand that it's not personal, even if it feels very personal. And while you may want to get a second or third opinion before making any final decisions, know that this is part of the process. 

That said, with all the cuts they make, your editor may also ask you to flesh out other areas. They may feel that some areas of your book are weak or lack detail and are more relevant to the story than you might realize. So, be prepared to write and rewrite parts of your book to help substantiate what you've already written. Remember, your editor is looking at your book through the lens of a reader and how your story will move them. 

How to find the right editor?

You'll want to find someone with experience specific to your book's genre. So, for anyone writing a memoir or autobiography, you'll want to work with an editor familiar with non-fiction editing instead of working with a sci-fi or political thriller editor.

Also, pay attention to their communication style and whether you feel comfortable receiving feedback. For example, would you prefer an editor to be direct and to the point or have more of a gentle hand-holding style? Both have their place, but that's a personal choice you'll want to make before deciding on the right editor for your book.