What type of editor do I need? I need someone to...
by Tracy Minsterman
1. understand my book concept and write the book for me
1.1. You need a ghostwriter
1.1.1. $0.26–0.50/word
2. understand my book concept and help guide me while I write it
2.1. You need a developmental editor
2.1.1. $45–55/hour (1–5 pages/hour)
3. review my draft manuscript and make significant changes including rewrites or reorganization of the text
3.1. You need a substantive/content/line editor
3.1.1. $40–60/hour (1–6 pages/hour)
4. check my manuscript for spelling, grammar, usage, punctuation, as well as check facts and cross-references and possibly create a style sheet to ensure consistency throughout the manuscript
4.1. You need a copyeditor
4.1.1. Basic: $30–40/hour (5–10 ms pages/hour) Heavy: $40–50/hour (2–5 ms pages/hour)
5. check my final manuscript for grammar, usage, punctuation, typos, and style guide consistency
5.1. You need a proofreader
5.1.1. $30–35/hour (9–13 ms pages/hour) [About $0.01/word]