Nonfiction Content Editing Package
$.05 per word (content edit, copyedit, double-check)
Prices quoted are approximate. After talking with an author, Dori will proceed to a free, no-obligation sample edit of 5 manuscript pages. A fair price will then be negotiated. Samples edits will be returned in 24–48 hours. (Dori completes several nonfiction content edits annually.)
Content Editing Package—$.05 per word
-Turnaround time: 20 to 45 business days for the first phase, depending on length and amount of edits needed
-Includes a first-round comprehensive edit with a detailed editorial review, a second-round copyedit and a double-check step
Nonfiction content editing focuses on the the author's theme, message, goals, structure and format. An experienced memoir and nonfiction editor, Dori zeros in on an author's style and voice and helps craft cohesive writing that fulfills an author's intention. All suggestions will be made and tracked using the Microsoft Word Track Changes feature.
The Nonfiction Content Editing Package includes a detailed editorial review with recommendations on the development of
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author's theme and message (Are the theme and/or message relevant and fully developed? If not, what steps should the author take to further develop the theme or message?)
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goals (Did the author reach the intended goal, and where can improvements be made to further the goal?)
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structure and format (Is the structure of sentences, paragraphs and sections organized and logical? Are special points and arguments set off properly? Do author's arguments further the message and goals?)
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style (Does the author use the appropriate tone for the subject matter and target audience? Are there certain areas the author should break out of the editing box and develop his or her own style? For memoirs, is the story timeline consistent, and does the author employ fiction techniques to enhance the story?)
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grammar and language (Is the grammar technically correct? Are there consistencies that need to be maintained? Are there repetitions that need rewording?)
The Content Editing Package is a three-step process:
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The manuscript receives a comprehensive edit and is returned to the author with recommendations and a detailed review. The author rewrites or makes revisions and emails the revised document to Dori.
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The text is copyedited and sent to the author, who makes corrections and emails the fixed manuscript to the editor.
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Dori then double-checks the revisions and the entire document. This double-check process distinguishes Breakout services.
Breakout Editing recommends the Nonfiction Content Editing Package for writers who have conscientiously self-edited their works. It includes a full edit and review of the five points mentioned above and any other aspects worth noting, a second-round copyedit and a double-check step. The editorial review will be 6–12 pages. Dori will edit any length of text.
For book-length fiction and most nonfiction, as well as essays and short stories, Dori recommends the Chicago Manual of Style, 16th edition, and the Merriam-Webster dictionary. These style guides are industry standards and Dori is well-versed in both. She's the type who instantly recognizes the difference between an en dash and an em dash and between past tense and past perfect tense.
For blogs, websites, pamphlets, brochures, etc., Dori recommends the Associated Press Stylebook and the Webster's New World dictionary. Shorter works typically need a more abbreviated style. As a former full-time journalist, Dori is acutely aware of AP style. But she still prefers to italicize book titles.
Style Manuals
Good-faith deposit: Once a project is confirmed between Dori and the client, at least half the funds (as a show of good faith) will be required before the official start date. For a content edit, the balance will be due at the start of the copyediting phase. If you have questions or would like to work out another option with Dori, just ask.
Payment: Dori accepts Zelle, PayPal, checks, or money orders. Author is responsible for fees. All funds must be in US dollars. Once payment has been confirmed, editing will begin on the agreed-upon start date.
Billing: a PDF or email invoice will be emailed to the client at the start and completion of the editing.
Breakout practices consistent, clear communication with its clients and informs them when editing begins and when it's near completion.
Payment
Book a Copyediting, Content Editing or Proofreading package and Dori will edit your book blurb (or blurbs) as a courtesy. With content edits, she also provides courtesy edits for your book synopsis and your query to agents or publishers (if you're trying to publish traditionally).
Free Blurb Editing
