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Frequently Asked Questions
Why might I need a writing coach?
Writing coaches are like personal trainers for writers. They help authors deal with challenges like getting started, developing, and organizing their work.
What's it like to work with The Savvy Red Pen?
Think of me as your most enthusiastic fan—your coach, your mentor, and your confidante. And think of my feedback as little love notes to help you create the best writing of your career. My comments aren’t slashes of shaming criticism but valentines of valuable insight to make certain that what ends up on the page is what you set out to communicate.
Even if we disagree, you will only see a respectful response—even when I might have to cajole you into maintaining a schedule and respecting deadlines.
Check out my clients’ testimonials. They’re happy to tell you why they’ve appreciated working with me.
Why do I need an editor?
Writing is like tightrope walking; it takes courage, planning, and practice if you want to survive to wow the crowds.
Writing without an editor or proofreader is like working without a net. The potential disaster may not be life threatening, but major errors have certainly destroyed careers and led to public humiliation. Imagine leaving the letter “L” out of public, and you get the idea. Spellcheck wouldn’t catch that mistake, but good editors (and proofreaders) would.
Errors muddle the message and undermine the power of the writer’s voice.
There are no shortcuts, but a savvy editor and proofreader provide the confidence and encouragement you need on your journey.
What is the editing process?
Essentially, it’s back and forth communication. I respond to your materials through document tracking changes or other appropriate editing commentary tools. You respond by accepting or rejecting my suggested changes.
What does the pre-edit process look like?
First, we set up a chat to get acquainted, assess the nature of your work, your target audience, and goals.
If you’ve completed a manuscript, email it to me as a Microsoft Word document (.docx). While I prefer electronic submission, I can make hard copy work if that your only option.
FYI 250 words is a typical page of manuscript.
Use 1-inch margins on all sides.
Use Times New Roman, Calibri, or Ariel, 12 pt. size.
Double space.
I’ll review what you’ve sent and provide a free sample edit (max) 1,000 words.
We’ll determine the services you need, and I’ll craft a timeline and contract.
Generally, I ask for 50% of the projected fee up front, with the rest to be paid at different stages of deliverables.
How do we communicate once the work begins in earnest?
I work with clients I have the pleasure of meeting as well as others I work with long distance. Once we have signed a contract and work begins in earnest, we will chat mostly by email, but sometimes phone conversations are necessary.
When phone calls are important, it’s wise for us to create an agenda and estimate how much time we’d need. 15 minutes? 30 minutes? 60 minutes?
The key to our successful relationship is timely communication so neither of us holds up the process.
Can you help me self-publish my work?
Yes, I am familiar with self-publishing tools for printing (and ebook format) and distribution.
My network also includes talented cover designers, formatters, and marketers.
Can you get my work published through a traditional publisher?
No. You would need a literary agent for that, but I can connect you to resources.
Why might I need a project manager?
Project management is one-stop shopping, organizing all the facets of your process from start to finish: the writing, editing, proofreading, timeline, and publishing services.
