Writing tip #5: Working with an editor

You and the editor you choose are going to see things differently. The editor will puzzle over some words in your manuscript, and when the edited text comes back to you it's not even close to what you were trying to say. Or the editor has cut out your choicest words, and your most beautiful paragraphs have been split into two or three parts.

If you're using a ghostwriter or someone to create a book from the notes and information you provide, the process can be even more frustrating. Your writer is trying to say what you would say if you could. When you get a peek at the first draft, you are horrified.

Yes, editors and writers make mistakes. When you find errors in edited text, here is the best way to fix them:

• Give the exact location in the text, show the text as it is now and how it should be. Add an explanation if you feel one is needed.

If you feel your writer or editor has missed the direction you want to go or has a perspective that conflicts with the one you want in a section of the book, here's the best way to deal with that:

• Talk to your editor or writer. Email doesn't work. Try to be good-humored about what you need, and you'll get it faster and better.

If you've changed your mind about deleting or including something in the book, try this method:

• Suggest where the new text should go or give the exact words that should be deleted. Give your reason for adding or deleting text and listen to your editor's rebuttal if there is one.
  

In short, when changes are needed in your ghostwritten or edited book, be as specific as you can about the change you think you need and be open to what your editor has to say.