Frequently Asked Questions

All about The Viyug for Publishing – Book Editing, Formatting, Review and Consultation

What’s the Difference Between Proofreading and Heavy Editing?

Different levels of editing are like differently sized sieves; they are each designed to catch various problems, ranging from minor errors to major content issues.

• Copy Editing and Proofreading: This is the most basic form of editing and addresses only typos and objective grammatical errors. Only well-written manuscripts are ready for proofreading.
• Heavy editing: For more in-depth review and revisions, heavy editing includes proofreading for grammar, as well as extensive revisions to improve diction, syntax, sentence structure, flow, style, tone, and transitions. Most manuscripts require heavy editing, though we can adjust our editing and pricing according to your manuscript’s condition.
• Critical review and analysis: This service provides you with feedback and the opportunity to discuss your material with a writing expert. The editor will review and comment on your content and consult with you on how to best proceed with revisions and improvements
• Developmental editing: If you are looking for input on the creation of your content itself, developmental editing is a form of collaboration between author and editor in which the editor coaches the author through planning, writing, and revising their manuscript. Developmental editing addresses larger issues, such as the overarching themes and intention of the book, and includes broader suggestions and revisions to the structure, narrative, character development, voice, style, and pacing. It does not fully address spelling and grammar issues, as this is done significantly later in the process. Many first-time authors utilise a developmental editor to assist them throughout the writing process.
• Rewriting and ghostwriting: Sometimes authors require help that goes beyond the scope of editing. In these cases, we offer options for rewriting or paraphrasing existing content, or ghostwriting original content. Our ghostwriting services can be utilised to develop an entire manuscript, or to add content and depth to an existing manuscript.

How Can I Determine Which Level of Service I Need?

The level of service that you need depends on the strength and clarity of your content, and the stage of development that it is in. If you have a well-written manuscript that just requires final polishing, proofreading is likely the best option for you. Heavy editing is best for manuscripts that are early drafts, or those that were written quickly or by an inexperienced writer.

If you are looking for feedback on the development of your material, critical review and analysis will provide you with in-depth input to help guide you in the writing process. For more collaborative consultation, developmental editing services will give you dedicated support as you develop your ideas—or your manuscript-in-progress—into a coherent, comprehensible book.

If you need more extensive support with your content, we also offer rewriting and ghostwriting services to build off of existing material or generate new content. Feel free to send us a sample of your work, and we’ll give you our professional opinion on what level of service will benefit your writing the most.

Will My Editor Implement the Revisions, or Will I Have to Do That Myself?

We’re happy to implement the edits for you as well as make suggestions for further improvement—it’s all up to you. Typically, we make all grammar corrections for you and track the edits so that you can easily identify every change we made to your book.

I’ve Written a Book Before, But It Wasn’t Successful. What Can You Do to Help Me Succeed?

Writing is just like any other skill or art form; practice, feedback, and refinement are the means to improving your abilities. Every writer needs an editor, and even the most brilliant ideas can benefit from a collaborator or two. We can work with you on material that you’ve already created to give detailed, insightful feedback and suggestions on how to take your craft to the next level. We can also build off of the ideas that you’ve already generated and ghostwrite new material for you.

We know that the publishing industry can be daunting, especially for first-time authors, so we offer consultation and comprehensive support for traditional, hybrid, and self-publishing outlets. Most of our all-inclusive ghostwriting packages include an original and customized query letter or book proposal free of charge. This invaluable marketing tool will be used to promote your book to literary agents and publishers. Not sure how to find a reputable literary agent? We’ve got you covered—we’ll provide you with a list of genre-appropriate agents to whom you can send your query letter or proposal!

Our services are perfectly suited for writers who are looking to improve their work. Our professional staff is ready to give you the tools, motivation, and reflection that you need to succeed.

Once the Editing Process is Complete, Can You Help with Publishing and Marketing?

We know that the publishing industry can be daunting, especially for first-time authors, so we offer consultation and comprehensive support for traditional, hybrid, and self-publishing outlets. Most of our all-inclusive ghostwriting packages include an original and customised query letter or book proposal free of charge. This invaluable marketing tool will be used to promote your book to literary agents and publishers. Not sure how to find a reputable literary agent? We’ve got you covered—we’ll provide you with a list of genre-appropriate agents to whom you can send your query letter or proposal!

What’s Included in the Consultation Process?

Our consultants are available to discuss all aspects of your project with you, including planning, preparation, concept generation, organisation, development, style, tone, writing, editing, formatting, publishing, and more!

Our consulting process is flexible and customisable to your needs and preferences. Consultation sessions generally take place by phone or video call, but can also include in-person meetings if necessary or just written feedback. Once you’re happy with the content of your book, we can help you determine which publishing options work best for you and make your published book a reality!

Can I Work with the Same Consultant the Entire Time I’m Writing My Book?

Absolutely. In general, we strive for continuity when matching consultants with clients. It is also possible to have the same consultant on multiple projects, which helps to build positive working relationships and foster consistency within your body of writing. Of course, if for any reason you would prefer to work with a different consultant, we’re happy to assign a new one.

Will a Reviewer Implement the Changes They’ve Suggested, or Will I Have to Do Myself?

It all depends on what review and consultation services you’ve ordered. We can provide you with comments and suggestions that you choose to implement yourself, or we can make the edits to the content for you. Our goal is to support you to produce the best possible content through customer service that exceeds your expectations.