Exactly how much does editing help a writer when submitting a manuscript?
This is a question that dogs both writers and editors. We editors want to know how much we can help. Well, according to a recent study titled “Writing Matters” by Jan Feld, Corinna Lines, Libby Ross, editors can improve the chances of acceptance in a journal by as much as 10%.
This study attempts to measure the effect of editing on a manuscript’s reception by a publishing editor. The researchers declare, “Our results show that writing matters,” by which they mean, “polished writing.” Writers who skip the editing process may feel secure, but according to this small survey, editing could raise the chance of acceptance and publication by roughly 5% to 10%. While this number isn’t astonishing, bear in mind that the writers in this study were professional researchers who are expected to write at a higher level than the general population.
The authors indicate that improvements in the reader’s perception was especially marked when the “original versions were poorly written.” So, the rougher the draft, the more the editor can polish.
Surely, editors have already known this for a while. I personally keep a publications list of all my writers who have successfully published. But more quantification helps.
There are several ways editors help writers even before the question of publication arises.
We collaborate with writers at the idea stage, helping shape the concept of an article or book. We encourage writers to complete first-time narrative projects, like books. We help complete projects and improve the storytelling, making the narrative more effective. And finally, as the study shows, we help writers polish their manuscripts to facilitate publication. To learn more about our editing, visit our Services page.
Writers benefit from editing in many ways. First, is feeling that their story is complete, moving from inspiration and idea to a well-wrought story. Second, is feeling that it is presented well, with all the appearance of professional writing. Third, is moving from the complete and polished manuscript to publication.
At each stage, editors guide the way. Now, we have another measure for it.