Manuscript Assessment
Also known as: an editorial assessment, letter or report.
A BIRD'S-EYE VIEW
A manuscript assessment is an ideal place for most writers to begin their story edits. It looks at the story as a whole, examines the shape of the narrative structure and character arcs, spots plot holes, ensures cohesion across major story elements, and assesses the manuscript’s suitability for the desired readership.
A manuscript assessment doesn’t make corrections. It sets the author up with a clear vision of their story and the confidence to tackle large-scale revisions.
Feedback is delivered in an editorial report and is presented as an overview of the story’s strengths and weaknesses. The report highlights areas that need broad revision, such as underdeveloped characters, plot inconsistencies or confusion around speculative elements.
Likewise, strong story craft that succeeds in propelling the narrative or connecting to readers’ emotions is highlighted so you can see effective writing at work within your manuscript and build on those strengths.
The assessment also suggests next steps in the editing process and recommends helpful resources to aid in revisions.
A manuscript assessment is suitable for any finished drafts when you need to see the whole story instead of the finer details.
Please note, this service does not include line, grammar or spelling edits.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
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An EDITORIAL REPORT is a letter containing an analytical overview about your manuscript, including strengths and weaknesses in the text, suggestions for revisions that support your vision for the story, and suggested reading materials for further study.
The report for a manuscript assessment is between 5,000 and 10,000 words long.
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EMAIL FOLLOW-UP consists of two rounds of email questions and answers.
You may ask as many questions as you would like clarified.
PRICE
$11 per 1,000 words
(prices in USD)
NEXT STEPS
If you would like to book a manuscript assessment, use the button below to request a quote.
The link includes a short questionnaire and a place to upload your manuscript. This information allows me to perform a sample edit and tailor a quote to the needs of your novel. Once received, I will send the quote with your sample edit and further information within 24 – 48 hours.