Why Every Writer Should Learn Basic Self-Editing Before Hiring an Editor

One of the biggest mistakes new writers make is believing that once they finish writing a book, they’re ready to send it directly to an editor—or even publish it.

The truth is that learning a few basic self-editing skills can save you time, money, and frustration while helping you become a stronger writer in the process.

Now, let’s be clear: self-editing is not a replacement for professional editing. Even experienced authors use editors. I have an editor that I heavily rely on.

However, taking the time to clean up your manuscript before someone else sees it can dramatically improve the quality of your work and reduce the number of issues an editor needs to address.

Why Self-Editing Matters

Think of your first draft as pouring the foundation for a house. It’s necessary, but nobody moves into a house after the foundation is poured.

Your manuscript deserves multiple passes before it reaches an editor’s desk. Every typo you catch, every repeated word you remove, and every awkward sentence you smooth out is one less issue your editor has to spend time fixing.

Many editors charge by the word count, page count, or the amount of work required. The cleaner your manuscript is when it arrives, the more value you’ll get from the editing process.

Start With the Basics

Before worrying about complex grammar rules, focus on common writing habits.

Look for:

• Repeated words and phrases
• Overused filler words (just, really, very, that, began, started)
• Passive voice
• Excessive adverbs
• Dialogue tags that distract from the conversation
• Long paragraphs that slow pacing
• Inconsistent character descriptions or timelines

You may be surprised how many issues you catch simply by reading your manuscript slowly and carefully.

One of the most effective editing techniques is reading your work aloud. Hearing the words often reveals awkward sentences, repeated phrases, and unnatural dialogue that your eyes may skip over.

I have even begun using the Read Aloud option in Word to have the story read to me as I follow along. This has helped me find so many different issues that when reading the story myself, I never would have caught because I tend to easily skip over some issues without meaning to.

Software Can Help

Today’s writers have access to tools that can catch many common issues before an editor ever sees the manuscript.

Popular options include:

ProWritingAid

One of the most comprehensive tools available for authors. It analyzes grammar, readability, pacing, repeated words, dialogue, overused phrases, and much more.

AutoCrit

Designed specifically for fiction writers, AutoCrit analyzes pacing, dialogue, word repetition, sentence variety, and genre-specific writing patterns. It helps authors identify common weaknesses in their manuscripts while providing feedback tailored to their chosen genre.

Grammarly

Excellent for catching grammar mistakes, spelling errors, punctuation issues, and sentence clarity problems.

Hemingway Editor

Helpful for identifying complicated sentences and improving readability.

Microsoft Word Editor

Many writers overlook it, but Word’s built-in editor has become surprisingly effective for basic grammar and style checks.

Remember, software is a tool—not an editor. These programs can identify potential problems, but they don’t always understand context, voice, or style choices.

Learn From the Experts

If you’re serious about improving your editing skills, a few books can make a tremendous difference.

Recommended resources include:

• Self-Editing for Fiction Writers by Renni Browne and Dave King
• The Elements of Style by William Strunk Jr. and E.B. White
• The Emotional Craft of Fiction by Donald Maass
• The Anatomy of Story by John Truby
• Save the Cat! Writes a Novel by Jessica Brody

These books won’t just help you edit—they’ll help you become a stronger storyteller overall.

Use Beta Readers and Critique Partners

Before hiring an editor, consider sharing your manuscript with trusted readers.

Beta readers can help identify:

• Plot holes
• Confusing scenes
• Character issues
• Pacing problems
• Reader expectations

Critique partners can often provide even more detailed feedback because they understand the craft of writing.

Friends and family can sometimes be helpful, but they may hesitate to give honest criticism. Fellow writers are often better equipped to identify problems while still encouraging your growth.

Join a Writing Community

Writing can feel lonely, but it doesn’t have to be.

Organizations and writing groups provide opportunities to learn from experienced authors, find critique partners, and stay motivated.

Consider groups such as:

• Romance Writers of America (RWA)
• Mystery Writers of America (MWA)
• Sisters in Crime
• Local writing groups and library workshops
• Genre-specific Facebook groups
• Online critique communities

Surrounding yourself with other writers is one of the fastest ways to improve your craft.

Understanding the Different Types of Editors

Many new writers don’t realize there are several types of editors.

Developmental Editor

Focuses on story structure, plot, pacing, character development, and overall manuscript organization.

Line Editor

Improves sentence flow, clarity, style, and readability.

Copy Editor

Checks grammar, spelling, punctuation, consistency, and technical accuracy.

Proofreader

Provides the final review before publication, catching any remaining errors.

Not every manuscript needs every type of editing, but understanding the differences can help you invest your budget wisely.

Final Thoughts

Editing isn’t the glamorous part of writing, but it’s where good books become great books.

The more effort you put into learning basic self-editing skills, the more professional your manuscript will be when it reaches beta readers, editors, agents, or readers.

You don’t need to become a professional editor. You simply need to learn enough to present the best possible version of your story.

Your future editor—and your future readers—will thank you for it.