The Relevance of Proofreading and Editing in the World of E-Books
Proofreading and editing is highly relevant in the e-book world. Writers can avail themselves of online e-book editing services. These services provide an e-book editorial service which will not only review a manuscript for syntax, spelling and grammatical errors, but also provide useful recommendations on organisation, flow and content of an e-book. The critiquing, editing and proofreading required for writers, interested in publishing for the e-book world are an essential process to achieve the desired results. Words are a projection of the author; an extension of their literary self. Readers continuously judge an author's credibility, and if an incorrect synonym for example, is used; their credibility and lack of craftsmanship is at stake.
When the author has established the desired layout for their e-book, and decided that the goals they envisage for their work have been set, a qualified editor can offer constructive criticism, and advice on conceptual and style issues that may need further clarification and polishing to ensure it will reach the targeted audience. HG Nadel says that a competent editor is like an essayist, understanding and working with literary and traditional aesthetic forms, to achieve a final crafted result that appeals to readers.
Tweaking and revising a manuscript, is an author's opportunity to obtain an objective review of their work. However, the prospective author must guard against succumbing to over-editing and becoming too pedantic, as this will unnecessarily delay publication of the manuscript. The author should reflect on whether they have responded appropriately in terms of the implicit promise to their potential readers. Reviewing chapter titles is a quick guide as to whether the author has addressed the major points, the book seeks to address. An author should embrace the review process as early as feasible, as at that stage, their investment in the written work is not as extensive as it will be as the work progresses. Proofreading and editing of potential e-books is no less important than for traditional books. Author credibility and acceptability is not altered by a change in the delivery mechanism. Readers will be attracted or disenchanted by an author's writing style and craftsmanship, irrespective of how they make contact with their work. Whether writing for traditional or e-book audiences, authors should meticulously plan their proposed work and have a clear insight into what they hope to achieve.
Reviewing of a manuscript is best done by a competent and qualified person who has no personal interest in the success of the project; objectivity is worth paying for, to obtain clear and constructive feedback.
The literary world has changed dramatically since the introduction of e-books; however, the relevance of proofreading and editing manuscripts to make them suitable for e-book publication is still paramount for success. In an era where authors can self publish online, and anyone with internet access can bill themselves as an author, the reader can afford to be very discriminatory in their selection. Sloppy and poorly written work will rapidly sink along with the author's credibility.
Also read here: Ways by HG Nadel to Make Your Book Editing Experience Better