At Salem Author Services, our editors offer a Manuscript Review, sometimes called an MDR, for all authors. A Manuscript Review allows an editor to become thoroughly acquainted with a piece. Manuscript Reviews are not only an important step in the editing process, but they are the very first step! Let’s dive into what these Manuscript Reviews are all about.
What Is in a Manuscript Review?
The Manuscript Review starts out with the title of the reviewed piece, the author’s name (or pen name), and the word count. Simple enough so far, right? Then it goes into the general overview—what the editor believes your piece to be about upon first impressions, which shows authors how audiences may receive your piece.
Manuscript Strengths
Next up is the “Manuscript’s Strengths.” This may be some of our editors’ favorite component of Manuscript Reviews (yes, it is definitely mine!). The editor will highlight the piece’s best qualities, from effective structure and poignant themes to impactful language and unique characters. This portion illuminates the wow factor of the piece. The possibilities are endless for a manuscript’s strengths, and our editors are always finding new ways to compliment authors on their brilliant writing!
Areas the Author Can Improve
After the strengths, the next component can be the most helpful for authors: “Areas the Author Can Improve.” This section is where the editor notes areas in the manuscript that can be altered, removed, or revised to clarify the piece, maintain consistency within the piece, or simply bring it to the next level. Editors are skilled at looking at all aspects of a manuscript to find the hidden gems and where it may be lacking, whether it be minor or major.
Suggested Editorial Service
Now comes the suggested editorial service. These can range from a Basic Edit, where errors in spelling, grammar, and punctuation are addressed, to an Executive Edit, a two-round edit where there are larger content concerns, and everything in between. Our editors will also recommend a different type of service, such as Standard Citation Formatting Service or a Data Entry Service, if it is required.
Recommended BISAC Codes
After that, the editor will suggest potential genres, or BISAC codes, for the piece so your future readers will be able to find it on a shelf or in an online database once it is published. Again, there are a multitude of genres that a manuscript can fall under, but our editors pick the top three most relevant ones.
A Sample Edit
Lastly, the sample edit is conducted. This is a mini sample of around 200-500 words from the manuscript to show authors what their piece would look like with the suggested editorial service. It is up to the authors if they wish to proceed with an edit or leave their piece as it is. They are also able to pre-purchase an edit before the editor completes the Manuscript Review.
Final Thoughts
It is important to note that the Manuscript Review is only one editor’s opinion of your piece. Their suggestions are meant to help guide authors on which type of editing they wish to receive (if any). Manuscript Reviews can be a great tool for authors and editors alike to use to gain a deep understanding of a piece and have a clear visual of how it can reach its full potential. If you’re looking for a more in-depth examination of your manuscript, you may prefer our Editorial Critique.
Call 1-866-381-2665 to learn more about our editorial services for self-publishing authors.
Originally published February 23, 2024.
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