Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I need developmental editing?
Most of us can benefit from developmental editing! But some sure signs that you might need this kind of assistance include if you are feeling unsure about your manuscript, have questions about big picture issues (like argument, organization, and critical analysis), or feel like an experienced set of eyes could help improve your work. If the stakes of publishing feel high, developmental editing can also help you to achieve your goals and diminish stress. If you are wondering if developmental editing is right for you, you can set up a free strategy session with me to determine if it would meet your needs. Learn more about this kind of editing here.
My budget is tight. Are your services even an option for me?
Don’t assume that a tight budget means that you will be unable to afford editing or coaching services. I can intervene with texts on a variety of levels. For example, perhaps it might be helpful for me to read a chapter that you are finding difficult, but not the whole book manuscript. Or I could do a manuscript evaluation, but not a line edit. Many clients find short 30-minute coaching sessions useful and affordable. Please be in touch and we can discuss your budget and what services it could cover. If you are employed at a college or university, your school might also have funding available to pay for these types of services. I’m happy to advise on this as well!
Why should I hire you over someone else?
You should hire me because I am a careful, professional reader who is detail oriented, while also able to focus on the big picture. I’m a good communicator and care about listening to clients to make sure that I best meet their needs. My eight years of experience teaching, researching, and publishing at the university level mean that I have the insider knowledge about writing and publishing that can help set your work apart. Most importantly, I’m an enthusiastic supporter of my clients, helping them to produce the best work that they possibly can.
What is developmental editing anyway?
Unlike copyediting, developmental editing focuses on big picture issues in texts. As I read your work, I think about the overall argument, organization, structure, and engagement with texts. Developmental editing helps ensure that your book becomes the best book it can possibly be.
How long are your turnaround times?
It depends on the size of the project. Full manuscript reviews generally take a month to six weeks, while shorter projects can be completed more quickly. It also depends upon how busy I am so if you have a project in mind, I encourage you to reach out so that I can get it on my calendar. I’m currently booking out two to six months (though sometimes I can fit shorter projects in more quickly).
I’m a student. Would you work with me?
I work with graduate students to help them prepare job search materials and articles for publication. I can also help with evaluations of dissertations if that is within the acceptable guidelines of their programs. I do not work with undergraduates.
Do you work with clients who speak a first language other than English?
Yes! I speak several languages other than English (at differing levels of proficiency!) and love helping multilingual authors meet their publishing goals.
How do I know if I need coaching services?
Coaching is helpful if you think talking through your project would be useful. If you are someone who finds brainstorming about your research projects productive, coaching might be right for you. It is also helpful if you need more accountability to support getting writing done since I can help you set goals and realistic deadlines.
What happens when I get in touch?
I’ll set up a complimentary meeting with you where we can discuss your writing project and how I might best support your work. I can then send you an estimate of the cost and we can take it from there.
What if I want coaching and developmental editing?
No problem! Many clients combine the two, often sharing written materials before we meet so that we can talk through them together. I always consult with clients about the level of editing that would work for them, and we determine together how to make coaching sessions best meet their needs.
What happens if I decide to employ your services?
I will write a contract that details the terms of the project that we have agreed upon (including my role, deadlines, etc.). You’ll then have a chance to revise it before signing. Once we both sign, the work can begin!
How do I receive your edits?
I work in Microsoft Word and will make my edits using track changes and the comments function. Once they are completed, I’ll email them to you.
How much do your services cost and how do I pay you?
When I have a sense of your project, I can give you an estimate of its cost. Many clients pay with institutional research funds or small grants. I accept payment in a variety of ways, including Zelle, PayPal, credit card, bank transfer, and check.
Why Goldenrod Editorial and Consulting?
While my main focus is editing, I do occasionally consult on other issues related to my expertise, including establishing Peace Corps Prep Programs and advising on research in Mauritania and West Africa. If these areas interest you, please be in touch!
Do you have any reading suggestions on scholarly writing?
One thing I wish I’d done more of when I was writing my book is read about writing! So here are some suggestions to help you do better! Katelyn Knox and Allison Van Deventer’s The Dissertation-To-Book-Workbook is a really helpful guide for authors who aim to publish their dissertations. They provide active exercises to prepare you through the revision process. The Elements of Academic Style (Eric Hayot) provides helpful suggestions for improving various aspects of writing, including argument, introductions, titles, and narrative flow. While geared for the humanities, his book can be helpful for scholars of all disciplines and also has useful tips on how to get writing done. Helen Sword’s Stylish Academic Writing provides important guidance on making your writing clear, engaging, and compelling.
I have a long list of books on academic writing so if you’re looking for one on a particular topic, please be in touch and I’ll recommend one to meet your needs!
How do I get in touch with you?
You can fill out this contact form or send me an email at katherine[at]goldenrodeditorial.com