Many authors believe that, once they finish their first draft, they should send it to an editor to start the publishing process. But this isn’t actually true.
The first draft is just your initial ideas on paper; it's where you get everything out of your head. This draft usually needs a second, more objective look for strengths and weaknesses, so you can mould it into a more cohesive book that’s ready for editing.
This is where a manuscript assessment can help.
What it is
A manuscript assessment is written, and sometimes verbal, feedback about an author's writing, usually a book or ebook.
An editor with years of experience in book publishing is usually the best type of assessor. They can spot issues that the author may not because they have distance from the topic.
They can review the work from an editor’s perspective without the expense of a full edit. The author can then consider their recommendations when writing the next draft.
What it isn't
A manuscript assessment is not an editing or proofreading service. In fact, your assessor probably won't touch the document at all, or may just make notes in it.
At Lexi Comms, our assessors read the work you send us and provide written and verbal feedback.
You don’t have to implement any advice or changes that you don’t want to. What you do with our advice is entirely up to you.
Our process
-
1
Initial consultation
First, we ask you many questions about your book and your goals for it. This information helps us check whether the book will achieve what you want it to achieve and advise where it might need more work to hit the mark.
-
2
Written assessment
We provide an objective, clear and comprehensive assessment of your book. Our report covers aspects such as structure, messaging, logic/sense, narrative flow, tone and voice, suitability for target audience and language.
-
3
Final consultation
After you've read our assessment report, we can have another meeting with you to discuss it. You can ask any questions and consider your next steps.
How our manuscript assessors work
Positive approach
Our assessors pride themselves on being encouraging and constructive in their feedback. We will be positive in our dealings with you, and provide clear, practical advice on the draft’s strengths and weaknesses.
Part or unfinished drafts
We may be able to assess unfinished drafts or initial chapters to provide early feedback before you progress further. We’ll discuss your plan and ideas so far to ensure you’re on the right track.
Cost
The cost of a manuscript assessment is based on the number of words you provide. Generally, the fee is $9.00 per 1000 words (or part thereof), including title pages, contents, references and other pages.
Time frame
Generally, we can complete a manuscript assessment within four weeks, though it may be six weeks in busier times or for longer manuscripts. You should book your assessment in as soon as you can.
What our clients say
The very detailed manuscript assessment provided an analysis of each chapter with an overview of general strengths, weaknesses and suggestions for refinement. I was able to request focussed feedback on aspects of my manuscript, such as theme and structure. Being able to discuss the assessment with Kylee gave human perspective, voice and heart to the feedback; an element missing from the anonymous feedback provided by many writers’ organisations.
Mark McNamara,"There’s Someone Behind You!" (provisional title)
Thanks for candid assessment. Kylee put in the effort.
David V.
When is your draft ready for assessment?
That’s up to you, really!
After you’ve finished your first draft, you could wait a while and then go through it again. You’ll probably find issues yourself once you’ve had some distance from it.
When you think it’s ready for an external perspective, contact us for a chat about your project.
Note: Getting feedback from family and friends is great, but they’re probably not professional writers and may not even be the target audience for the book. A publishing industry professional will give you objective, targeted feedback.
Related articles
Common mistakes of nonfiction writers
Publishing a nonfiction book is a great way to get your message out there, but there are pitfalls to be aware of. Here are some common ones!
Finding your writing voice
When you're a business writer, you hear lots of voices - your client, your company and the looming deadline. Learn to block them out to find your own voice.
