Manuscript evaluation
What is a Manuscript Evaluation?
Similar to a developmental edit, a manuscript evaluation addresses big-picture issues related to storytelling. It examines plot structure, worldbuilding, character arcs, genre expectations, and more. However, a manuscript evaluation is less in-depth and comprehensive compared to a full developmental edit. It’s a broader review of the book as a whole rather than breaking down the story on the scene-level.
This is a more economical option than developmental editing for experienced writers. It comes before line editing or copy editing. Because it’s an edit that requires substantial changes to the manuscript, mechanical issues on the sentence level should be addressed after revision.
How does it work?
Please fill out the Request Edit Form. I will contact you, and we will discuss your story and any concerns you may have about it. This will give you chance to evaluate if I’m a good fit and give me an idea of the story’s structural needs.
After we’ve discussed the edit, I will evaluate the manuscript as a whole and determine an exact rate. If you agree, I will send you a contract to sign.
I will provide suggestions on how to make your story stronger and appeal to more readers. You will also receive a detailed report, discussing how to expand on what works well already and improve trouble areas. After you’ve had time to look it over, I’m happy to meet with you for an hour to discuss it.
In the end, ultimately, you’re the writer. This is your story. You make the decisions. My goal is to collaborate and work alongside you, not tell you what to do.
How much does it cost?
A manuscript evaluation involves dissecting a story’s overall structure and coming up with creative solutions.
Rates vary $0.013-0.015 (1.3-1.5 cents) per word. For epic-length manuscripts, which are common in speculative fiction, I give a decreased rate for word count above 100k.
An editorial letter reviewing the story (in-margin comments are not included)
Plenty of communication, including a one-hour meeting at the end to discuss your questions
What is included?
What is not included?
Due to its nature of being an early edit, many sections and passages of the story will change.
A manuscript evaluation does not address issues related to syntax, punctuation, grammar, or spelling. This edit is focused on storytelling.