Manuscript Assessment
For authors who don't know what they need
What is a Manuscript Assessment?
Service Overview
Sometimes called a Manuscript Evaluation, this service is perfect for authors who don’t quite know which level of editing their manuscript needs but know it needs something. Ideally, you’ve done a few rounds of self-edits to your manuscript before getting an assessment, but that’s not always necessary. Every author and every manuscript is different.
A manuscript assessment is a high-level review of your manuscript. During this process, I will read through your story and pay special attention to the major structural elements, such as:
- Structure: Does the plot advance in a compelling way that makes sense? How are the characters introduced? Does the character development feel authentic? How is the pacing?
- Plot: Are the goals of the story and the characters clear? Do the stakes continue to rise as the story progresses? Is the author’s voice clear and consistent?
- Mechanics: Are there recurring grammatical or spelling issues throughout the manuscript? Could the word choices be more effective?
- Genre: Does the manuscript follow the accepted conventions of Romance? If not, is the reason and result interesting enough to keep the reader motivated?
While they sound similar, it’s important to remember that a manuscript assessment is different from a developmental edit. A manuscript evaluation is much less detailed than a developmental edit. It will provide less input on how to correct issues, but it will tell you which, if any, other editorial services your manuscript could benefit from.
This service is great for telling you what works and what doesn’t work in your manuscript.
Sample Edits: I do not offer sample edits for manuscript assessments. However, we can schedule a free call where I can walk you through the assessment process.
How It Works
We jump on a 30-minute call to ensure we’re on the same page about services and expectations.
After that, I will send you a proposal and a contract.
I write a short editorial letter summarizing everything I find and giving general suggestions on how to improve any issues.
*Note: There will be no in-line comments on your manuscript.
After you get the report, we will schedule a 30-minute video call to review my feedback and for you to ask questions. We can also talk through revision ideas. You’ll also have unlimited access to me via email while you make your revisions.
How It Works
We jump on a 30-minute call to ensure we’re on the same page about services and expectations.
After that, I will send you a proposal and a contract.
I write a short editorial letter summarizing everything I find and giving general suggestions on how to improve any issues.
*Note: There will be no in-line comments on your manuscript.
Timelines & Rates
Rates: $0.0050 – $0.010 per word, depending on the expected turnaround time and the level of work your manuscript needs.
Scheduling: Some services may need to be scheduled several months in advance.
If you are under a tight deadline, please let me know in the contact form!
Combination Edits: Discounts are available for booking more than one editorial service.