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BookBaby Professional Manuscript & Copy Editing Services
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Professional Book Copy Editing Services

Polish your manuscript with an expert editor.

Questions? Call 856-554-2316

Get a quote now

Configure an Editing Service quote for your book.

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  • Not sure what your page count is? Click here to enter your word count.

  • Editing Services Quote (11.29.2023)

  • Price (excludes tax)

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Copy Editing sample

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If life teaches us anything, it’s that everybody makes mistakes—but especially when writing a novel that spans 415,000 words. That’s what happened in A Dance of Dragons when the infamous Cersei Lannister was identified as a male during her “walk of atonement.” It’s a minor slip-up that diverts the tone from heartfelt pain to lighthearted humor. Shame, shame.

A good story is as compelling as it is consistent. And that’s why BookBaby has professional copy editors ready to ensure your manuscript’s quality holds from the first page to the last line.

I am beautiful, she reminded herself

What is Copy Editing?

Copy editing focuses on the technical aspects of your manuscript, guaranteeing that your writing meets industry standards. A professional copy editor keeps an eye on:

  • Story elements consistency (plot, setting, characters, etc.)
  • Spelling, grammar, and syntax errors
  • Missing words
  • Writing style consistency
  • Vague and inaccurate statements
  • Any mistakes you may have overlooked

Download Copy Editing sample (Microsoft Word doc).

Copy editing vs. Proofreading

Copy editing is the stage where almost all mistakes have been found and corrected. Copy editors look at every word, letter, and punctuation mark and expect to make substantial–yet small–changes to the manuscript.

Proofreading is the final editing stage where a fresh, experienced set of eyes reviews the manuscript. Proofreaders often save authors from embarrassing and simple mistakes.

Edit or regret it

What do Copy Editing services include?

Your copy editor will perform these services when reviewing your manuscript:

  • Correct any typos, especially spelling, grammar, punctuation, and syntax errors
  • Fill in missing words
  • Make new paragraphs to break up long passages
  • Ensure consistent spelling, hyphenation, numerals, fonts, and capitalization
  • Flag ambiguous or factually incorrect statements (crucial for non-fiction)
  • Track larger concerns like discrepancies in your plot, setting, and character traits

Overall, your copy editor will impose a consistent style for your text. Most editors use The Chicago Manual of Style as preferred unless the work needs to conform to an academic convention such as AMA, or MLA.

At $7 per page, copy editing will save you time and money in the long run.

Kickstarter

I've only gone through the process of Copy Editing so far. The editing was very thorough, and I appreciated all the small errors caught that would make a book look sloppy in print. Also, the editor respected my style and understood how I was using grammar.

Judith, BookBaby Author

How BookBaby’s Editing Process Works

1. Choose your editing package

1. Choose the book editing service you need.

Select Copy Editing from the menu.

2. Upload your Word document

2. Upload your Word document.

You don’t have to place a book order to take advantage of our book editing services. All you need is your finished manuscript to get things started.

3. Retrieve your edited manuscript

3. Receive your professionally edited manuscript in 8-10 business days.

Review your fully proofed manuscript along with your editor’s notes.

If not now, then when? Edit your book

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a book editor?

Yes!

Having your manuscript reviewed by a professional book editor is a rewarding experience. In addition to the improvements to your manuscript, you will also benefit from the feedback on your writing that only a finely tuned professional editor can provide. Writers often comment on the lifelong benefits enjoyed from their very first editing experience. If a writer wants to ensure they are creating an impactful and enjoyable reading experience for their readers, then editing is a no-brainer. Remember, nothing is more damaging to your author brand than publishing a book with embarrassing typos and grammatical errors. Read more.

Can I speak with my editor?

Sorry, you cannot communicate directly with your editor. Our editing network is designed to be an efficient process. It's why we're able to quickly pair your project with a professional editor and deliver an edited manuscript within ten days. But, our editors do provide notes and overall comments. You’ll still receive expert suggestions in addition to professional edits.

How much does book editing cost?

BookBaby Book editing prices:
Line editing: $10 per page
Copy editing: $7 per page
Proofreading: $3 per page

What is the difference between copy editing and proofreading?

Book proofreading is the vital last step of the editing process. After your manuscript has received its professional edit, your book proofreader will perform a final review to fix any remaining mechanical and grammar issues before your book is printed and published. Proofreading is not a structural edit and instead focuses on eliminating minor errors and inconsistencies.

Copy editing is a basic word-by-word edit that addresses grammar, usage, and consistency issues. Your copyeditor will correct continuity issues in your story and ensure your manuscript is free of technical problems or major loose ends that’ll confuse your readers. Read More

What is the difference between copy editing and line editing

Copy editing is a basic word-by-word edit that addresses grammar, usage, and consistency issues. Your copyeditor will correct continuity issues in your story and ensure your manuscript is free of technical problems or major loose ends that’ll confuse your readers.

Line editing is an intensive structural edit that focuses on the finer aspects of language—the flow of ideas, transition elements, tone, and style. Your line editor will take a critical look at your manuscript’s writing flow, language usage, and character development, and make suggestions that ensure that you’re communicating your story effectively while maintaining your voice. Read More

How do editing services work?

BookBaby's Editing Services are easy to use. Simply follow these steps:

1) Setup your manuscript file to these specifications:

  • English or Spanish language only
  • File Type: Microsoft Word format (.doc or .docx)
  • Page Size: 8.5x11"
  • Pages Margins: Set to 1" on all 4 sides left, right, top and bottom.
  • Font Type: Times New Roman
  • Font Size: 12pt.
  • Line Spacing: Double
Read more.

How should I setup my manuscript file for editing?

Only a single manuscript file is accepted for editing services. Book cover files are not needed nor are they accepted.

Manuscript specifications:

  • English or Spanish language only
  • File Type: Microsoft Word format (.doc or .docx)
  • Page Size: 8.5x11"
  • Pages Margins: Set to 1" on all 4 sides left, right, top and bottom.
  • Font Type: Times New Roman
  • Font Size: 12pt.
  • Line Spacing: Double
Read more.

How long will my editing project take?

Editing is inherently a very customized service, so we're unable to guarantee a turnaround time for these projects. We can, however, give a rough estimate based on the length of your manuscript:

  Proofreading Copy Editing Line Editing
< 50 pages < 7 business days < 8 business days 8-10 business days
51-200 pages 7-8 business days 8-10 business days 10-12 business days
201-350 pages 9-11 business days 10-12 business days 12-15 business days
351-500 pages 12-14 business days 12-15 business days 15-17 business days
501+ pages 15+ business days 16+ business days 18+ business days

Can I see a before and after sample?

Book Editing Sample