Common editing mistakes and how to avoid them

Editing is a crucial and often underestimated part of the self-publishing process. As an editor, I’ve worked with many authors who were surprised to learn just how much a manuscript can evolve between the first draft and the final version. Unfortunately, many authors make avoidable mistakes in the editing stage that can affect the quality and success of their books.

Here are some common editing mistakes authors make and how you can avoid them.

1. Skipping the editing process

Don’t rush to publish without any form of professional editing. While it's tempting to save time and money, skipping editing often results in negative reviews and poor reader retention.

Solution: At the very least, invest in copyediting and proofreading. For both non-fiction and fiction with complex plots, developmental editing should also be outsourced.

2. Relying on spellcheck or AI tools

While tools like Grammarly and ChatGPT can be helpful (if used with caution), they can’t replace the trained eye of a human editor who understands voice, tone, flow, and nuance.

Solution: Use these tools to clean your draft, but always pair them with the services of a professional editor, especially before publication.

3. Editing while writing the first draft

Trying to perfect every sentence before finishing the draft can disrupt your creative flow and delay progress.

Solution: Focus on getting your story or argument down first. Save revisions and edits for the second draft and beyond. An author/writer should always do some editing! Read my blog: Can you edit your writing?

4. Not understanding the types of editing

Many authors don’t realise that there are different types of editing: developmental editing, line editing, copy-editing, and proofreading. Each serves a different purpose.

Solution: Learn the differences and plan accordingly when budgeting time and money. Read my blog: Self-publishing: what’s involved?

5. Hiring the wrong type of editor

Not all editors offer the same services. Some specialise in big-picture structural work, while others focus on refining words and details.

Solution: Choose an editor based on your current manuscript needs. Ask about their specialities, process, and experience. Read my blog: Why does editing cost so much?

6. Ignoring reader feedback before editing

Early feedback from family, friends or beta readers can highlight confusing sections you may be too close to see.

Solution: Share your manuscript with trusted readers and revise it accordingly before passing it to your chosen editor. This will save you time and money.

7. Over-editing or rewriting repeatedly

Too many revisions can dilute your voice or introduce new errors. It is possible to edit the life out of your story.

Solution: Know when to stop. Trust your editor’s feedback and be intentional with each round of revisions.

8. Neglecting formatting consistency

From inconsistent chapter headings to erratic punctuation, formatting issues can make even well-edited content look unprofessional. It will also lead to higher editorial costs as your editor will have more work to do!

Solution: Address formatting during your editing process and pass your style choices to your editor. There will then be less to address at the copy-editing, interior layout and proofreading stages.

9. Not budgeting time (and money) for final proofreading

Don’t overlook the final proofreading stage, often the last line of defence before printing or uploading.

Solution: Always build in time (and resources) for one last proofread after the manuscript has been typeset or formatted.

10. Taking feedback personally

Editorial feedback is not a critique of your talent; it’s an investment in your book’s success. Despite my saying this all the time, many authors still struggle emotionally with revisions.

Solution: It is important to view editing as a collaborative process. A good editor is on your side, helping your work shine. I always say: Your words, my help!

📘 Final thoughts

Editing is where your manuscript evolves from a draft into a professional, polished book. By avoiding these common mistakes, you will give your story the best possible chance to stand out for all the right reasons in what is a very competitive market.

Message me if you would like a copy of a downloadable checklist to help you on your journey to publishing with confidence.

I hope this helps xx

If you’re an aspiring author looking to publish your book, I'm here to polish your words and create a professional, reader-friendly publication for you. I would love to support you on your publishing journey.

Contact me for an editing and typesetting estimate; let’s make your book shine!

* * *

Cornerstone pa services is here to help YOU and YOUR business.

Get in touch if you need editorial or admin support.