When and how to get an editor?

Question

I am writing a YA novel and I've almost finished with the first draft. I know I still have some editing of my own to do, but at what point to get need a professional editor? I've heard get an agent first and then they will help get an editor set up. I've also heard you have to get an editor before you start sending your book out looking for an agent. I've heard editors are really expensive if you get them on your own (which is scary because I don't have a ton of money to spend on it), as well as you can find editors at fairly reasonable rates. Can somebody clear this up for me?

Answer 1

The PUBLISHER, once you find one, will provide an editor. What you may need is someone to proofread your manuscript for spelling and gramatical errors. For this, you may be able to find one by advertising in a local college's newspaper, or electronic bulletin board. You should be able to find some hungry English major to do this fairly cheap.

Answer 2

You shouldn't need to hire a professional editor. You might ask a trusted friend--someone you know will point out things that need improvements, mark typos, etc.--to read it before you start querying agents, just so it's polished and as clean as possible.

But the agent or publisher (if/when you get to that stage) will help with the editing. The agent might do some editing before s/he starts approaching publishers, and your acquiring editor at the publisher (or a copy editor/proofreader paid by the publisher) will make further suggestions.

You do not need a paid editor before you start querying unless you know you suck at grammar/punctuation and don't have any friends or acquaintances you can trust to help.

Good luck!

P.S. When you're finished with the first draft, just leave your book alone for a while. Let it sit for a couple weeks, at least, before looking at it. Then you'll be able to edit it with fresh eyes and a fresh mind. Also try reading it out loud. This is a great way to catch weird phrases or awkward sentences and other errors.

Answer 3

Once your book is accepted by a publisher, they will assign you an editor. Publishers understand that every writer needs an editor. The only difficulty would be if your manuscript were so awful in point of spelling, grammar, and style, then the publishing house might not take it. Your agent will tell you.

Answer 4

Because you're in the draft stages, maybe after your second or third draft, buy Writer's Market (if you live in North America) and follow the instructions based on what the agents and/or editors require.