Why Is Editor’s Important?

Besides the obvious, such as correcting the mistakes in this article’s title, an editor can bring out the best in your writing. Unfortunately, most people think of an editor as someone who just removes things like unnecessary apostrophes or replaces incorrect singular verbs with plural ones.

But editors can also find a host of problems that you might miss. Let’s face it: everyone becomes myopic about their own writing. Here are just a few of the problems a talented editor can find:

Clarity issues. What’s obvious to you might be confusing to your readers. An editor can make sure your writing is crystal clear.

Inconsistencies. These can happen in both fiction and nonfiction. You may miss that you changed the hair color of a character in chapter 5 without explanation. In nonfiction, you might miss a statement that contradicts something you wrote a few pages before.

Awkward sentences. The average writer doesn’t have enough experience to construct sentences optimally, but a good editor does. When a sentence is awkward, making it difficult to understand, an editor can figure out how to smooth it out.

Verbosity. Editors know how to make sentences tighter, removing excess words. The average writer is unaware of this problem, while an experienced editor will see it immediately.

Flow. Editors also have experience improving the flow of writing. This ensures a smooth read with a logical progression.

Structure. For longer pieces such as books, improving flow may involve structural changes, such as moving or combining chapters to make sure the story or message works for readers.

Tone. An editor may suggest changing the tone of the writing if it isn’t appropriate for the target audience. Of course, this doesn’t mean losing the writer’s voice, which should never be abandoned in the editing process. (That said, I’ve had to tell a few authors that their voice can’t be so conversational that the writing is unclear.)

Story improvement. If you’re writing fiction or memoir, or your nonfiction includes stories, an editor can improve the quality of the narrative. This might involve fixing plot or character problems, as well as improving dialogue.

Industry knowledge. If an editor with years in the publishing industry says your manuscript is ready to publish, you can take that to the bank. This acknowledgement will give you the confidence every writer needs.

Accountability. If you work with an editor while you’re writing, they can keep you on track to finish by the deadline you have set.

Encouragement and company. An editor can keep you motivated while you write and help you feel less isolated.

While no manuscript is ever perfect, the right editor can make a huge difference for your writing and your success. What does it mean to find the “right” editor? In my opinion, besides their level of experience with your genre, it’s about feeling sympatico with them. Do they “get” you? That’s what matters most. When you find that right person, they can be the ally you need to both elevate your writing and provide companionship during your path to publishing.