Which is more important for a 1st time writer to have:an editor or an agent?

Answer 1

an agent...if you can get an agent, the agent will get you an editor.

Answer 2

Your manuscript, if unsolicited, will go into "the slush heap" where it will be cursorily read by an editor/reader and evaluated. Use a good "grabber" opening ("It was the best of times, it was the worst of times" or "then the grizzly charged" sort of thing). Get an agent after the book / story achieves some interest. If the publisher makes an offer then think about an agent - but talk to people first about which agent to use. It's tough, but good luck. A well-printed manuscript will get more attention and don't worry about the ribbons etc.

Answer 3

Most of the articles I have read say that if it is your first time trying to publish, it is best to query the publishers directly. They warn that there are too many shady agents out there.

Considering that agents get a nice percentage of what you make, I think it makes more economic sense to seek out an editor first with your BEST efforts.

Answer 4

An agent.

An agent will move your book to the top of the pile, at a publishing house.

Usually the publisher will supply thier own editor or two or three.

Answer 5

An editor, if push comes to shove (and it is your first book) you just want to get it out there. It does not matter if you have to make it available for free down loads, as long as you get it out there & give something for an agent to work with in the future (and get some kind of a name for yourself). None of this can be done until you have an editor hack it up for you tho.

Answer 6

an agent... haha. no, you need to write the book, then you send it to a publisher & deal with the editor... yeah. you don't need an agent at all!!! not until you really get a good book out there.