From the SRP Editor blog:
Let’s get one thing out of the way: you can technically edit your own work. Just like you can technically give yourself a root canal with a mirror, a bottle of bourbon, and a pair of pliers.
But should you?
Here are five good reasons to hire an editor instead of going solo.
- You’re Too Close to It
You’ve spent weeks, maybe months, inside this story. You know what every sentence is trying to say — which means your brain will often fill in gaps that a stranger (like, say, a reader) won’t. An editor spots the places where your prose isn’t doing what you think it is. - You’ll Miss the Forest for the Commas
Writers who self-edit tend to obsess over typos and grammar — while missing bigger issues like pacing, structure, or the fact that your protagonist’s motivation makes zero sense after chapter four. A good editor sees the story, not just the syntax. - Your Spellchecker Doesn’t Give a Damn
It won’t tell you that “lead” is the wrong word in past tense. Or that your character “grinded” when they should have “ground.” Software catches spelling. Editors catch language. There’s a difference. - Your Friends Will Lie to You
They mean well. They want to be supportive. They also want to keep being your friend. That’s why most beta reader feedback boils down to: “It was good. I liked it. Some parts were confusing. Anyway, I made cookies.” Editors are paid to be honest. Brutally, constructively, helpfully honest. - It’s an Investment, Not a Luxury
Publishing a book — especially if you’re doing it independently — is running a business. Would you sell a product without testing it first? Would you skip quality control? Then why skip professional editing?
A clean, sharp, well-edited book sells better, reviews better, and reflects better on your brand as an author. It pays off — sometimes immediately, always eventually.
Final thought:
You don’t need an editor because you’re a bad writer.
You need an editor because you’re a smart writer.
Mark.
