5 Reasons Why Editors Return Manuscripts for Revision

Image by Lorenzo Cafaro from Pixabay 

If you have published a book with a traditional publishing company or self-published your manuscript with the help of a full-service self-publishing company, then you know about the editing process. 

Sadly, some writers believe editors only want to destroy the integrity of the author's exemplary work. Not so. 

An editor does not want to destroy an author's work. An editor simply wants to help the writer avoid glaring errors and present the best work possible to readers. 

If you are an author, here are 5 reasons why an editor may return your manuscript for revisions:

1. Grammar errors. Some writers are so preoccupied with telling a good story that they overlook poor grammar usage. No editor would ever let poor grammar go without correction.
(Note: Check out MANA's post on grammar tips by clicking HERE)

2. Redundancy. Readers do not appreciate a work full of redundancy.

Example: The teacher had difficulty controlling the class. Because the teacher is an educator, the teacher should know how to handle kids. All teachers who teach children should know how to manage a classroom.

Example: He repeated his statement again. She referred back to her days in high school. 

3. Paragraph length. The general rule is to have one idea per paragraph. Avoid writing a 10-sentence long paragraph with multiple characters dealing with different subjects. 

4. Inaccurate information. Writers should make sure they research their topics thoroughly to make sure they present accurate information to their readers. 

5. Punctuation errors. Punctuation plays a critical role in helping readers understand your work. While it's an editor's job to make corrections, writers should make sure that they know how to correctly use the different types of punctuation marks. 

If you are a writer, do not become offended or discouraged when an editor returns your manuscript to you for revisions. It's not that an editor doesn't like your work, an editor knows what publishers want and if you don't deliver, your work will not be accepted for publishing. 

So, think of your initial manuscript as a "rough draft" and expect to make multiple changes. Remember, editors require revisions to make your work as error-free as possible. Your readers will appreciate it.  

Do you need an editor? MarketingNewAuthors.com has editing and proofreading services. Find out how we can help you. Contact MANA via email: info@marketingnewauthors.com or call 734-975-0028.