Private Tutorials & Developmental Editing
It’s said that ‘the closer you are to something, the harder it is to see.’ Working on a piece of writing for an extended period can make it difficult to judge what is on the page, how it measures up to the ideal in your mind’s eye, and the steps that will transform the former into the latter.
As a developmental editor I can help you clarify your intentions for your current draft, identify the aspects that fulfil those intentions, and work with you to bring the whole into line with your vision. I will provide annotations on your work with reader impressions, notes on strengths and suggestions for development. We will then meet virtually to discuss my notes and your thoughts, and create an action plan for editing your work. I’m also happy to discuss aspects of writing as a profession, such as graduate programs, possible influences and comparative texts for your work, and the road to (UK) publication.
If you’ve taken one of my writing classes before, you may recognise this as a more in-depth and extended version of the feedback I provide on marked assignments – because it is! My approach to editing has grown out of my experience of teaching writing. My philosophy is that every piece of writing succeeds on its own terms. In order for that to happen, the terms need to be clear, consistent, and fulfilled by the end of the piece. While this can absolutely be done in seclusion, an experienced teacher can make the process shorter and smoother.
Services
Writing Support
More focussed on your process and development as a writer than on your writing itself. I’ll provide notes on up to 5,000 words of material, and we’ll talk through your writing habits, concerns, and hopes. Your specific needs will guide the session.
Submission Support
Support in writing and compiling a submission packet for an agent or publisher. I’ll read your entire manuscript, edit your cover letter and synopsis, and coach you through polishing your extract. I can also assist with researching agents and publishers to find a good fit for your work.
Novel Feedback
Exactly what it sounds like – feedback and support for an entire manuscript.
Something else…
The best part of teaching is connecting with people where they are and giving them the tools to get where they want to be. Tell me what you’d like to get out of a session, and we’ll go from there.
Sara Taylor 