When it comes to editing, some authors prefer to receive small-batch corrections rather than waiting weeks or months for the complete project to be returned. While this approach may seem appealing, especially for those eager to see progress quickly, it’s not the best way to achieve a polished manuscript. Here’s why small-batch editing can actually hurt your project and why comprehensive editing is a better approach.
1. Editing Requires Context and Cohesion
Editing is not just about fixing errors; it’s about improving the manuscript as a whole. Editors need to see the full picture to ensure consistency in tone, style, and structure. When editing is done in small batches, it becomes difficult to maintain cohesion across the manuscript. Decisions made in one section may need to be revised after reviewing the entire work, leading to disjointed results and inefficiencies.
2. Interrupted Flow Leads to Inefficiency
Small-batch editing disrupts the natural flow of the editing process. Each time an editor starts a new batch, they must reacquaint themselves with the manuscript’s context, style, and nuances. This stop-and-start approach takes more time overall and increases the likelihood of inconsistencies. Comprehensive editing allows the editor to maintain momentum and dive deeper into the manuscript’s intricacies.
3. Delayed Identification of Big-Picture Issues
One of the most critical aspects of editing is identifying overarching issues such as plot inconsistencies, character development gaps, or recurring stylistic errors. These larger concerns often become apparent only after reviewing the entire manuscript. With small-batch editing, an editor may not spot these issues until much later in the process, which could require revisiting previously edited sections, adding unnecessary delays and costs.
4. Increased Costs and Time
Editing in small batches can ultimately cost more and take longer. The constant need to restart and refocus consumes additional time, which can translate to higher costs for the author. Furthermore, small-batch editing often creates a cycle of revisions that could have been avoided if the manuscript had been tackled comprehensively from the start.
5. Comprehensive Edits Yield Better Results
The editing process works best when it follows a clear sequence: