The Writers' Surgeon FAQs
1. What manuscripts do you edit?
We edit almost all kinds of manuscripts, from children's books, young adult, fiction, non-fiction, and more. About the only thing we won't edit is pornography (call us prudish, but we just don't get off on it). Here's a more comprehensive list for you:
- Manuscript Editing
- Fiction Editing
- Non-Fiction Editing
- Biography/Memoir Editing
- Poetry Proofreading
- Children's Book Editing
- Short Story Editing
- PhD, Dissertations & Master's Degree Editing
- Journal Article Editing
- Letters & CV Editing
- Blog Editing
- Lectures & Speeches
- PowerPoint Presentations
2. My m/s is unique; can I ask for specific feedback?
Of course. If there are specific requirements you have or guidance you need for the editiing process, just ask. Just let us know in your email and itemise them clearly for us so that we can better understand your unique circumstances.
3. When is the right time to edit?
Although there's no right or wrong way about getting a professional edit of your work, we do feel that the first draft is perhaps not the most optimal time. For a start, it will save you valuable time and money if you can polish, revise and rework what you have written to the best possible standard you can achieve on your own. If you are a first-time writer, this is probably around the third or fourth draft, but for more experienced writers it could be the second draft.
4. Who is doing the editing?
We have an international team of male and female editors with multiple skills and experience in editing and publishing - publishers, editors, journalists, teachers/academics, writers. Your work will be placed with the 'best fit' editor on our team once we have made an initial review of your work and taken into consideration any requests that you have made.
5. What do I get for my money?
There is editing and there is editing. Click here to download a pdf for a comprehensive comparison of our levels of editing service and what you can expect to receive in return for your investment. PLUS, your work will be guaranteed publication as an ebook with DoctorZed Publishing (see #6 below).
6. Will my m/s get published?
Not many editing agencies can make this promise, but we can certainly say that once your work has been edited to our high standards, publication of your work will stand a much better chance of being accepted by a publisher than if it were not.
7. How long will it take to edit my m/s?
It really depends on word count. For children's books, it shouldn't take longer than 7 working days. For m/s up to 120,000 words, depending on the level of editing service you require, the length of time can vary between 4-8 weeks. In some instances, it could even be sooner.
8. How should I prepare the m/s for editing?
To get the most out of the editing process, you should ensure that your manuscript is as good as you can possibly get it before submission. In particular, grammar, spelling and punctuation. The m/s should also be laid out as such:
- A4 size
- 12 point font size
- Times New Roman or Garamond font
- Double-spaced lines
- 1-inch (2.5 cm) margins top, bottom and sides
- Chapter breaks
- Header - Title/Author/Page No.
9. Can you give me a list of happy clients and endorsements?
Of course. We are more than happy to give you the contact details of satisfied clients who have agreed to endorse our editing service. All you have to do is ask...
10. Can I call you?
Is the Pope a Catholic? We'd love to hear from you. Just pick up the phone and dial (Australia) 08-84314965, or try our mobile on (Australia) 0430036693.
Our Commitment To You
Your privacy and intellectual property are important to us. TheWritersSurgeon.Com therefore does not sell or share any client information with any third party. All documents received remain the intellectual property and copyright of the original author. In the event that you feel a Non-Disclosure Agreement is required, we are willing to review and sign any agreement provided by you.
Testimonials
"I just want to say this has been the most valuable lesson I have ever had in writing and I have done many courses in my time. I have learnt so very much by following your suggestions. I believe this to be the best money I have ever spent on my writing ... so much of it is pure gold." Josie de Moor, author of Heart of a Beast.
"This is exactly the kind of thing I was looking for." Chris Williams, author of Ghost of a Chance.
"[The Writers' Surgeon] helped me win the prize for English Literature at SA University. I recommend them to any writer or student." Emma Shawcross.
"The Writers' Surgeon was invaluable in helping me obtain my Masters Degree in Education. I can't thank them enough. They are highly recommended." Jolande Botha-Smith, UK.