Last Updated on December 9, 2025 by NEK Editing

Usually, an author is too closely involved with a work in progress to see its flaws. Most authors hire a book editor after completing several drafts of their manuscripts. Editors offer feedback regarding the progression of a storyline, correct inconsistencies, fact check, and fix spelling and grammatical errors. Learn more about the book editing process below.

The Book Editing Process

Developmental editing is the first stage of the book editing process. After a manuscript is complete, it is time to send it to a developmental editor. The editor will look it over to see if any elements (plot line, character development, etc.) need improvement or strengthening. At this stage, rewrites occur.

Copy editing is done after a developmental edit. The copy editor identifies run-on sentences, consistency of tone, and proper syntax of sentences. At this stage, the spellings of characters’ names are double-checked and prefaces or forewords, tables, figures, lists, and indexes are edited.

Proofreading is the final editing step before the publication of a book. It includes fact-checking and removing repetitious language as well as fixing minor spelling and punctuation mistakes, typos, and formatting issues.

Is Your Manuscript Ready For An Editor?

Knowing when to send your manuscript to an editor is pretty straightforward. Follow these steps:

• Write several drafts to perfect the message you want to convey 
• Review the plot and character arcs
• Ask for outside feedback such as from beta readers or writer’s groups
• Read the manuscript out loud or listen to it using a text-to-speech feature
• Proofread the manuscript to the best of your ability

If you’ve completed your manuscript and the above steps, it’s time to contact a book editor. Once you have chosen an editor and they have reviewed your manuscript, you should start thinking about the next step to help finalize your book, interior book formatting.

Preparing Your Book For Publication

In addition to editing services, NEK Editing provides interior book formatting for both print and eBooks. Formatting the book involves preparing the manuscript’s interior pages to the book’s specified trim size and adding page numbers and blank pages for print books.

Let’s work together if you need an editor to review your book or format your manuscript. Contact NEK Editing today.