How much does it cost to hire a book editor?

Answer 1

Typically, freelance editors charge between $1.75 to $2.00 USD per page. Although this fee may seem high, the editing should include:

• spelling
• grammar
• sentence structure
• flow of content
• critique of how well the content makes sense
• suggestions for content improvement

Writers can do some of the first 3 items on their own. First, use the Grammar/ Spellchecker in MS Word. Make every revision you can do. If Spellchecker does not suggest a correct spelling on an incorrect word, look up the word online at Merriam-Webster Dictionary.

Second, MS Word doesn't give good tips on grammatical errors, but you can go to OWL Perdue to read up on grammar rules. Make sure that at least 80% of your sentences are in "active sentences" (meaning: subject+action verb with no "by"). A "passive sentence" would be "John was hit by a ball". The typical format of a passive sentence is subject+ a "being" verb" + a clause beginning with "by". To change a passive sentence is simply flipping the noun after "by" to the subject, insert an action verb, and make the original subject into an object, for example:

Passive: Sally was made fun of by the girls.

Active: The girls made fun of Sally.

Notice that an active sentence uses:

• a subject in the subject position, not in the object position
• an action verb
• does not use a form of "be" as a verb including, is, are, was, were, has, have, be, being, etc.
• is shorter and more compact than a passive sentence
• is easier to read
• and less boring compared to a text with all passive sentences.

Passive: John was tired of waiting so he got everyone's attention by smashing his fist down on the table.

Active: John tired of waiting for everyone's attention and smashed his fist down on the table.

Passive: Julie was crying hard.

Active: Julie sobbed.

or : Julie cried.

Passive: How much money per manuscript is charged by editors?

Active: (your Question above) How much do editors charge per manuscript?

Third, look for other "wordiness". All writers get "wordy". For example: "At this point in time, since no one else has raised their hands, we think we are done for this evening. Our next meeting, in due course, will be held, of course, right in this auditorium at 7 o'clock next Thursday, notwithstanding any bad weather."

Notice all the unneeded clauses. Look for repeated words (ex: next appears twice in one sentence). Writing Labs online have examples of "wordy phrases" that you can use to go through your manuscript. Remove as many instances as you can and re-word the sentence.

Lastly, once you have done as many revisions as you can, read your word out loud. We often hear errors that our brain skips over during silent reading. Do a paragraph at a time and work slowly.

Once you've done your own revisions, check with a local college. A grad student might be interested in doing further editing for a cheaper price.

Answer 2

The cost of hiring a book editor can vary depending on factors such as the editor's experience, the level of editing needed, and the length of the manuscript. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $3000 or more for editing services. It's important to research different editors, their qualifications, and pricing structures to find the right fit for your project and budget.

Answer 3

Well, you don't have to pay. Only if they want more money. (just kidding) CRAZE THE BUTT CHEEKS!