{"id":7683,"date":"2026-09-24T14:10:54","date_gmt":"2026-09-24T19:10:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/utopianediting.com\/?p=7683"},"modified":"2026-09-24T21:25:36","modified_gmt":"2026-09-25T02:25:36","slug":"what-kind-of-help-does-my-novel-or-short-story-need","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/utopianediting.com\/index.php\/2026\/09\/24\/what-kind-of-help-does-my-novel-or-short-story-need\/","title":{"rendered":"What Kind of Help Does My Novel or Short Story Need?"},"content":{"rendered":"<style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading7683_5a72b4-d9, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading7683_5a72b4-d9[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading7683_5a72b4-d9\"]{font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading7683_5a72b4-d9 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading7683_5a72b4-d9[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading7683_5a72b4-d9\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading7683_5a72b4-d9 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading7683_5a72b4-d9[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading7683_5a72b4-d9\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<p class=\"kt-adv-heading7683_5a72b4-d9 wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading7683_5a72b4-d9\">You\u2019ve written a novel or short story&nbsp;.&nbsp;.&nbsp;. or part of one&nbsp;.&nbsp;.&nbsp;. or maybe it\u2019s more of a concept. Wherever you are in the process, you\u2019ve decided you need help. But what kind?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>\u201cFree\u201d sounds great because it fits every budget<\/strong>, but it can come with serious drawbacks. The friend or family member who agrees to read your draft says it\u2019s \u201cnice,\u201d or they \u201cloved it,\u201d or they grab a red pen and mark a bunch of comma errors that you\u2019re pretty sure weren\u2019t actually errors. The writing group you joined online consists of two people who are always arguing, three who mostly talk about everything BUT writing, one person who wants you to completely rewrite everything in THEIR preferred style, and two whose drafts you\u2019ve commented on faithfully, but they\u2019ve only given you vague praise in return.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Trouble is, <strong>just because someone offers a paid service that sounds like what you need doesn\u2019t necessarily mean you\u2019ll be happy<\/strong> with the outcome. Perhaps their feedback turns out to be so vague that none of it feels actionable. Perhaps you and the beta reader or editor or writing coach weren\u2019t on the same page from the outset, and you were expecting a much different kind of feedback than what they provided. Perhaps you even jumped the gun and paid for a final polish of your manuscript, only to find out later that you need to substantially rewrite the darned thing\u2014which makes those previous edits practically worthless.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The realm of writing, editing, and publishing is not much different in this respect than other professions. You can get a good or bad haircut from a budget salon or a high-priced one; likewise, you can get an awesome fade or a horrible chili bowl cut from your auntie.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">My point is, <strong>the more you educate yourself<\/strong> about the types of help that exist, both free and paid, and the more you understand about what each one entails, <strong>the better equipped you are to find the right helper<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Click to jump ahead to the section you want:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"#free-writing-help\">Types of Free Help<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"#paid-writing-services\">Types of Paid Help<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"#still-not-sure\">I&#8217;m Not Sure Which Help I Need<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"free-writing-help\"><strong>Sometimes the Best Things in Life Are Free<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li id=\"trusted-friend\"><strong>A trusted friend or family member:<\/strong> Best for a general reader reaction, especially if they read the genre and will be candid with you. Less reliable for technical or craft advice unless they have relevant experience.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"critique-partner\"><strong>A critique partner:<\/strong> Another writer who exchanges work with you and provides more craft-oriented feedback. Particularly useful during drafting and revision. This relationship can become more valuable over time as each writer learns the other\u2019s goals and style.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"writing-group\"><strong>A writing or critique group:<\/strong> Provides multiple perspectives and can help with brainstorming, motivation, accountability, and feedback on works in progress. Quality and group culture vary widely.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"free-beta-reader\"><strong>Beta readers:<\/strong> Readers who approach a more or less complete manuscript primarily as readers rather than editors. Useful for identifying where they became confused, bored, surprised, emotionally invested, suspicious of a plot turn, attached to a character, etc.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"feedback-swap\"><strong>A feedback swap with another writer:<\/strong> Similar to critique partnering but potentially a one-time exchange\u2014\u201cI\u2019ll read yours if you\u2019ll read mine.\u201d Especially useful when you need fresh eyes but don\u2019t necessarily want an ongoing critique relationship.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"writing-mentor\"><strong>A mentor or experienced writer in your network:<\/strong> Someone farther along in the writing\/publishing process may be willing to answer questions, brainstorm a problem, explain an unfamiliar part of publishing, or point you toward resources.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"forums-and-communities\"><strong>Free online writing groups, forums, and communities:<\/strong> Potentially useful for brainstorming, craft questions, accountability, troubleshooting specific problems, and learning from other writers\u2019 experiences. As with in-person groups, expertise and advice quality vary dramatically.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"libraries-orgs\"><strong>Libraries, writing organizations, and community programs:<\/strong> Libraries and some writing orgs offer free workshops, critique events, author talks, writing groups, reference materials, databases, and occasionally access to tools or classes that would otherwise cost money.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"reputable-resources\"><strong>Reputable free craft and reference resources:<\/strong> Articles, podcasts, videos, newsletters, style\/usage resources, author interviews, and educational materials can help a writer solve a problem independently once they know what problem they\u2019re trying to solve.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keep in mind that for some of these options, \u201cfree\u201d may not mean \u201ccostless\u201d\u2014just that it doesn\u2019t cost <em>money<\/em>. Swapping manuscripts with another writer may not require your credit card, but you\u2019re paying with your own time and thoughtful feedback. That\u2019s not a bad thing: you may learn a lot through this process. But do count the cost.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"paid-writing-services\"><strong>And Sometimes You Get What You Pay For<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019ve exhausted the free resources and still need help, or if you want to go straight to an expert, then there are all sorts of paid services to choose from. Be aware that <strong>terminology and service boundaries aren\u2019t completely standardized across the writing\/editing\/publishing world<\/strong>. It\u2019s vital that you understand exactly what kind of help and feedback you\u2019re looking for, then talk to the person you want to hire to confirm that their service actually provides what you want.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Writing\/coaching help<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li id=\"writing-coach\"><strong>Writing or book coaching:<\/strong> Ongoing one-on-one guidance tailored to the writer and project. A coach may help with brainstorming, goal-setting, accountability, organization, craft problems, revision planning, or working through specific obstacles. The emphasis is usually on helping the writer make decisions and move the project forward rather than directly editing the manuscript.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"writing-workshops\"><strong>Classes or workshops:<\/strong> Structured instruction on writing craft, revision, publishing, or other specific topics, usually taught to a group. These can be useful when the writer needs to build skills or learn a process rather than receive extensive individualized feedback on an entire manuscript.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"paid-beta-reader\"><strong>Paid critique \/ beta reading:<\/strong> A professional reader evaluates the manuscript and provides feedback without necessarily editing the text itself. Depending on the service, the focus may range from general reader reactions\u2014where the story dragged, confused, surprised, or engaged them\u2014to more detailed critique of plot, character, pacing, or other craft issues.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Editing help<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li id=\"editorial-assessment\"><strong>Editorial assessment \/ manuscript evaluation:<\/strong> A high-level professional diagnosis of the manuscript rather than an edit of the text itself. Usually delivered as an editorial letter discussing strengths, weaknesses, major revision priorities, and recommended next steps. May address plot, character, pacing, structure, worldbuilding, point of view, etc., but generally doesn\u2019t involve extensive comments throughout the manuscript.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"developmental-editing\"><strong>Developmental editing:<\/strong> Big-picture work on the story itself: plot, character arcs, structure, pacing, stakes, conflict, theme, POV strategy, worldbuilding, chronology, scene effectiveness, and similar issues. The editor identifies <em>why<\/em> something at the story level (not the sentence level) isn\u2019t working and helps the writer figure out how to revise it. Sometimes referred to as substantive, structural, or content editing (with variations in scope).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"line-editing\"><strong>Line editing:<\/strong> Sentence- and paragraph-level editing aimed primarily at the effectiveness of the prose rather than mechanical correctness. Rhythm, clarity, flow, word choice, imagery, repetition, awkwardness, dialogue, transitions, tone, voice, sentence variety, emphasis, and paragraph construction all live here. A line editor might recast a sentence because it works poorly, even if it is grammatically correct. Sometimes referred to as stylistic editing, particularly outside the US.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"copyediting\"><strong>Copyediting:<\/strong> Correctness, consistency, and clarity at the sentence level. Grammar, punctuation, spelling, syntax, usage, capitalization, hyphenation, numbers, abbreviations, internal consistency, basic continuity, and adherence to a style guide such as the <em>Chicago Manual of Style<\/em>. Copyeditors may flag unclear or factually questionable material, but their primary job isn\u2019t redesigning the story or extensively rewriting the prose. Sometimes called mechanical editing, often with a narrower scope.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"proofreading\"><strong>Proofreading:<\/strong> The final quality-control pass, ideally performed <em>after<\/em> editing and layout\/typesetting. Looks for residual typos, punctuation errors, formatting problems, missing words, incorrect headers\/page numbers, bad line or page breaks, inconsistencies introduced during production, etc. Proofreading is <strong>not supposed to be the stage where major prose or story problems are fixed<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Specialized help<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li id=\"continuity-editing\"><strong>Continuity editing:<\/strong> Checks whether details remain internally consistent: ages, dates, timelines, physical descriptions, geography, injuries, objects, relationships, rules of the fictional world, and so on. In fiction this is often folded into developmental or copyediting rather than purchased separately.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"fact-checking\"><strong>Fact-checking \/ factual editing:<\/strong> Verifies factual claims, historical details, terminology, quotations, dates, scientific information, real-world geography, and similar material. The depth of fact-checking included in ordinary editing varies enormously, so it is worth treating this as its own possible need.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"ip-attorney\"><strong>Publishing or intellectual-property attorney:<\/strong> A lawyer with relevant publishing or copyright experience can advise on legal questions involving fair use, permissions, copyright infringement, contracts, defamation, trademarks, and similar risks. Editors may flag potential concerns, but legal questions that require an authoritative determination should be handled by a qualified attorney.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"authenticity-sensitivity-reader\"><strong>Authenticity\/sensitivity reading:<\/strong> A reader with relevant lived experience or subject knowledge reviews material involving a particular culture, identity, community, disability, religion, or other lived experience. The goal is to identify inaccuracies, stereotypes, unintended implications, or details that may not ring true and to help the writer portray the subject with greater accuracy and authenticity.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Publishing\/submission help<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li id=\"query-package\"><strong>Query package critique\/consulting:<\/strong> Professional feedback on the materials used to approach literary agents or publishers, such as a query letter, synopsis, pitch, and sample pages. The consultant may assess clarity, positioning, presentation, and whether the materials effectively represent the manuscript and follow common submission expectations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"book-formatting\"><strong>Book\/ebook formatting:<\/strong> Preparing the finalized manuscript for publication in print and\/or digital formats. This may include page layout, chapter openings, headers and footers, page numbers, front and back matter, paragraph styles, ebook navigation, and creation of publication-ready files.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li id=\"submission-consult\"><strong>Submission\/publishing consultation:<\/strong> Guidance on what to do once the manuscript is ready to send out or publish. Depending on the writer\u2019s goals, this may include researching agents, publishers, magazines, journals, anthologies, or contests; developing a submission strategy; understanding guidelines and tracking submissions; or discussing traditional versus self-publishing paths.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"still-not-sure\"><strong>I\u2019m Still Not Sure Which Help I Need<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Did the previous section make your eyes cross? It\u2019s a LOT of info. Check here to see if you recognize the problem you\u2019re having.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a href=\"#unfinished-draft\">I don&#8217;t have a finished draft.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a href=\"#finished-draft\">I do have a finished draft.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a href=\"#specialized-help\">I need specialized help with something in my manuscript.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a href=\"#ready-to-publish\">My draft is polished and ready for the next step.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"unfinished-draft\"><strong>I don\u2019t have a finished draft.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>&#8220;I want to write, but I don\u2019t really know what to write about. I\u2019ve tried writing prompts I\u2019ve found online, but I think what I really need is someone to talk to me and help me figure out what I should write\u2014maybe write some prompts tailored to what I\u2019m interested in.&#8221;\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Free:<\/strong> <a href=\"#writing-group\">Writing group<\/a>, <a href=\"#writing-mentor\">mentor<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Paid:<\/strong> <a href=\"#writing-coach\">Writing coach<\/a>, <a href=\"#writing-workshops\">writing class<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>&#8220;I\u2019m struggling with motivation\/discipline to get words on the page consistently.&#8221;\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Free:<\/strong> <a href=\"#writing-group\">Writing group<\/a>, <a href=\"#writing-mentor\">mentor<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Paid:<\/strong> <a href=\"#writing-coach\">Writing coach<\/a>, <a href=\"#writing-workshops\">writing class<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>&#8220;I\u2019m stuck on some element of my story and can\u2019t move forward without solving it.&#8221;\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Free:<\/strong> <a href=\"#writing-group\">Writing group<\/a>, <a href=\"#writing-mentor\">mentor<\/a>, <a href=\"#reputable-resources\">reputable free resources<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Paid:<\/strong> <a href=\"#writing-coach\">Writing coach<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>&#8220;I think I need more help with writing craft in order to improve the quality of my writing.&#8221;\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Free:<\/strong> <a href=\"#writing-group\">Writing group<\/a>, <a href=\"#libraries-orgs\">writing organizations<\/a>, <a href=\"#reputable-resources\">reputable free resources<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Paid:<\/strong> <a href=\"#writing-coach\">Writing coach<\/a>, <a href=\"#writing-workshops\">writing class<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>&#8220;I\u2019m feeling discouraged about the quality of my writing and am tempted to give up.&#8221;\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Free:<\/strong> <a href=\"#writing-group\">Writing group<\/a>\/<a href=\"#forums-and-communities\">community<\/a>, <a href=\"#writing-mentor\">mentor<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Paid:<\/strong> <a href=\"#writing-coach\">Writing coach<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>&#8220;I have a ton of material and am having trouble organizing it all in a way that makes sense.&#8221;\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Free:<\/strong> <a href=\"#writing-group\">Writing group<\/a>, <a href=\"#critique-partner\">critique partner<\/a>, <a href=\"#reputable-resources\">reputable free resources<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Paid:<\/strong> <a href=\"#writing-coach\">Writing coach<\/a>, <a href=\"#developmental-editing\">developmental editor<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>&#8220;I have so many conflicting ideas that I\u2019m not sure which ones are best.&#8221;\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Free:<\/strong> <a href=\"#writing-group\">Writing group<\/a>, <a href=\"#critique-partner\">critique partner<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Paid:<\/strong> <a href=\"#writing-coach\">Writing coach<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"finished-draft\"><strong>I do have a finished draft.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>&#8220;I have a draft, but I don\u2019t know how well the story works yet. I suspect I might need to work on plot, character development, and\/or some other big-picture issue that will require some rewriting. I need someone to read it with fresh eyes and let me know what is and isn\u2019t working.&#8221;\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>&#8220;I just need a list of things to work on; I can take it from there.&#8221;\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Free:<\/strong> <a href=\"#writing-group\">Writing group<\/a>, <a href=\"#critique-partner\">critique partner<\/a>, <a href=\"#free-beta-reader\">beta reader<\/a>, <a href=\"#feedback-swap\">feedback swap<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Paid:<\/strong> <a href=\"#editorial-assessment\">Editorial assessment\/manuscript evaluation<\/a>, <a href=\"#paid-beta-reader\">paid critique\/beta reader<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>&#8220;I need a list of things to work on, but I have taken it as far as I can without help. I could really use detailed analysis to show me exactly where things are and aren\u2019t working, as well as specific examples\/recommendations for revision.&#8221;\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Free:<\/strong> <a href=\"#writing-group\">Writing group<\/a>, <a href=\"#critique-partner\">critique partner<\/a>, <a href=\"#feedback-swap\">feedback swap<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Paid:<\/strong> <a href=\"#writing-coach\">Writing coach<\/a>, <a href=\"#developmental-editing\">developmental editor<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>&#8220;I know what\u2019s wrong, but I can\u2019t figure out how to fix it.&#8221;\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Free:<\/strong> <a href=\"#writing-group\">Writing group<\/a>, <a href=\"#critique-partner\">critique partner<\/a>, <a href=\"#feedback-swap\">feedback swap<\/a>, <a href=\"#writing-mentor\">mentor<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Paid:<\/strong> <a href=\"#writing-coach\">Writing coach<\/a>, <a href=\"#developmental-editing\">developmental editor<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>&#8220;I\u2019m revising, but every change seems to create three new problems.&#8221;\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Free:<\/strong> <a href=\"#writing-group\">Writing group<\/a>, <a href=\"#critique-partner\">critique partner<\/a>, <a href=\"#feedback-swap\">feedback swap<\/a>, <a href=\"#writing-mentor\">mentor<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Paid:<\/strong> <a href=\"#writing-coach\">Writing coach<\/a>, <a href=\"#developmental-editing\">developmental editor<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>&#8220;I have a draft and think the story is solid, but I\u2019m too close to it. I need fresh eyes to read it and give me their honest, thoughtful response as a reader regarding what works and what doesn\u2019t.&#8221;\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Free:<\/strong> <a href=\"#trusted-friend\">Trusted friend\/family member<\/a>, <a href=\"#writing-group\">writing group<\/a>, <a href=\"#free-beta-reader\">beta reader<\/a>, <a href=\"#critique-partner\">critique partner<\/a>, <a href=\"#feedback-swap\">feedback swap<\/a>, <a href=\"#writing-mentor\">mentor<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Paid:<\/strong> <a href=\"#paid-beta-reader\">Paid critique\/beta reader<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>&#8220;I\u2019ve gotten feedback from beta readers, critique partners, or an editor, but I\u2019m overwhelmed by it and don\u2019t know what to act on first\u2014or what to ignore.&#8221;\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Free:<\/strong> <a href=\"#writing-mentor\">Mentor<\/a>, <a href=\"#critique-partner\">critique partner<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Paid:<\/strong> <a href=\"#writing-coach\">Writing coach<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>&#8220;I\u2019ve revised thoroughly, and the story is solid. The sentences could use some help, though. Perhaps they feel clunky and I\u2019m not sure how to fix that, or I have a lot of unnecessary repetition, or I just want it to read better overall. I need someone to help smooth the flow without changing my voice.&#8221;\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Free:<\/strong> <a href=\"#critique-partner\">Critique partner<\/a>, <a href=\"#feedback-swap\">feedback swap<\/a>, <a href=\"#writing-group\">writing group<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Paid:<\/strong> <a href=\"#line-editing\">Line editor<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>&#8220;I\u2019ve revised thoroughly, and the story and prose are both solid. I need someone to check for grammar, punctuation, correct usage, and style (<em>Chicago Manual of Style<\/em>).&#8221;\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Free:<\/strong> <a href=\"#reputable-resources\">Reputable free resources<\/a>, <a href=\"#critique-partner\">critique partner (if skilled in mechanics)<\/a>, <a href=\"#libraries-orgs\">library\/writing organization (for reference access)<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Paid:<\/strong> <a href=\"#copyediting\">Copyeditor<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>&#8220;It\u2019s totally revised, edited, and formatted for publication. I just need a last set of eyes on it to catch small errors that may have occurred during formatting.&#8221;\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Free:<\/strong> <a href=\"#trusted-friend\">Trusted friend\/family member<\/a>, <a href=\"#critique-partner\">critique partner<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Paid:<\/strong> <a href=\"#proofreading\">Proofreader<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"specialized-help\"><strong>I need specialized help with something in my manuscript.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>&#8220;I\u2019m writing a series and need help keeping continuity, timelines, character details, worldbuilding, etc. consistent.&#8221;\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Free:<\/strong> <a href=\"#critique-partner\">Critique partner<\/a>, <a href=\"#free-beta-reader\">beta reader<\/a>, <a href=\"#feedback-swap\">feedback swap<\/a>, or <a href=\"#trusted-friend\">trusted friend\/family member who knows the series well<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Paid:<\/strong> <a href=\"#continuity-editing\">Continuity editor<\/a>, <a href=\"#developmental-editing\">developmental editor<\/a>, <a href=\"#copyediting\">copyeditor<\/a> (depending on the stage of the manuscript)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>&#8220;I want to make sure all my facts are correct. I did some research, but I\u2019m not confident I got everything right.&#8221;\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Free:<\/strong> <a href=\"#reputable-resources\">Reputable free resources<\/a>, <a href=\"#libraries-orgs\">library\/research databases<\/a>, <a href=\"#trusted-friend\">knowledgeable people in your network<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Paid:<\/strong> <a href=\"#fact-checking\">Fact-checker\/factual editor<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>&#8220;I want to make sure that I\u2019ve written about a particular ethnicity or religion or other group with respect, accuracy, and authenticity. I\u2019d like someone who belongs to that group to read it and let me know where I might have gone astray.&#8221;\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Free:<\/strong> <a href=\"#reputable-resources\">Reputable free resources<\/a>; <a href=\"#trusted-friend\">trusted friend\/family member<\/a>, <a href=\"#critique-partner\">critique partner<\/a>, <a href=\"#writing-group\">writing group IF the person\/people have relevant lived experience or expertise<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Paid:<\/strong> <a href=\"#authenticity-sensitivity-reader\">Authenticity\/sensitivity reader<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>&#8220;I\u2019ve used some copyrighted material in a way that I believe falls under fair use, but I want to be sure I don\u2019t get into legal trouble.&#8221;\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Free:<\/strong> <a href=\"#reputable-resources\">Reputable free copyright\/legal resources for general information only<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Paid:<\/strong> <a href=\"#ip-attorney\">Publishing\/IP attorney for legal advice about your specific use<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"ready-to-publish\"><strong>My draft is polished and ready for the next step.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>&#8220;I\u2019ve got a totally solid manuscript and feel ready to start shopping for a literary agent or publisher. I need help preparing for that process.&#8221;\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Free:<\/strong> <a href=\"#writing-mentor\">Mentor<\/a>, <a href=\"#libraries-orgs\">writing organizations<\/a>, <a href=\"#forums-and-communities\">writing forums\/communities<\/a>, <a href=\"#reputable-resources\">reputable submission resources<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Paid:<\/strong> <a href=\"#submission-consult\">Submission\/publishing consultation<\/a>, <a href=\"#query-package\">query package critique\/consulting<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>&#8220;I\u2019m planning to go the self-publishing route and need someone to help me prepare the manuscript for book\/ebook formatting.&#8221;\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Free:<\/strong> <a href=\"#reputable-resources\">Reputable formatting resources<\/a>, <a href=\"#forums-and-communities\">writing\/self-publishing communities<\/a>, <a href=\"#libraries-orgs\">libraries or writing organizations offering relevant instruction<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Paid:<\/strong> <a href=\"#book-formatting\">Book\/ebook formatting<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>&#8220;I want to submit my story to magazines, journals, anthologies, or contests. I need help figuring out what comes next.&#8221;\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Free:<\/strong> <a href=\"#libraries-orgs\">Writing organizations<\/a>, <a href=\"#forums-and-communities\">writing forum\/community<\/a>, <a href=\"#writing-mentor\">mentor<\/a>, <a href=\"#reputable-resources\">reputable market\/submission resources<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Paid:<\/strong> <a href=\"#submission-consult\">Submission\/publishing consultation<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Now Take a Deep Breath<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Again, this is a lot of info. Here are the most important things to remember:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whatever writing problem you\u2019re having, there are often both free and paid options out there to help you tackle it. Be sure to identify the problem you\u2019re having as clearly as you can (sometimes it\u2019s basically just a call for help, and that\u2019s okay too). Then, before you pay anyone, make sure their definition of the service matches what you\u2019re expecting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Leave a comment below with your questions, experiences, and advice. Happy writing!<br>&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>You\u2019ve written a novel or short story&nbsp;.&nbsp;.&nbsp;. or part of one&nbsp;.&nbsp;.&nbsp;. or maybe it\u2019s more of a concept. Wherever you are in the process, you\u2019ve decided you need help. But what kind? \u201cFree\u201d sounds great because it fits every budget, but it can come with serious drawbacks. The friend or family member who agrees to&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":7696,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_kad_post_transparent":"","_kad_post_title":"","_kad_post_layout":"","_kad_post_sidebar_id":"","_kad_post_content_style":"","_kad_post_vertical_padding":"","_kad_post_feature":"","_kad_post_feature_position":"","_kad_post_header":false,"_kad_post_footer":false,"_kad_post_classname":"","iawp_total_views":9,"footnotes":""},"categories":[107,218],"tags":[112,109,108,111,211],"class_list":["post-7683","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-editing","category-writing-coaching","tag-copyediting","tag-developmental-editing","tag-editing","tag-line-editing","tag-writing-coach"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/utopianediting.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7683","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/utopianediting.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/utopianediting.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/utopianediting.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/utopianediting.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=7683"}],"version-history":[{"count":9,"href":"https:\/\/utopianediting.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7683\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":7701,"href":"https:\/\/utopianediting.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7683\/revisions\/7701"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/utopianediting.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/7696"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/utopianediting.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=7683"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/utopianediting.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=7683"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/utopianediting.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=7683"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}