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BookBaby>Editing

Book editing and formatting services

Turn good writing into a great book with a professional editing service.

Questions? Call 877-961-6878

Enjoy 20% off editing with promo code EPROMO26*

*This discount is good for 20% off copy or line editing services. This coupon cannot be combined with any other offer, is non-transferable, and has no cash value. Offer expires 6/30/26.

Learn more about editing services with BookBaby

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Why You Need Professional Editing for Your Book - BookBaby

Professional book editing services for writers

Whether you just started your book writing journey or are on your tenth manuscript, you should consider professional editing services. Each BookBaby professional editor specializes in transforming your work, ensuring impeccable spelling and grammar, and enhancing the overall flow of your narrative. Our editors do more than make sure your I's are dotted and T's are crossed. They ensure your writing is fluid and poignant. The best way to ensure your book is perfectly polished before it's in print is to invest in professional editing and writing services from a brand you can trust. Consider exploring our graphic design services for a complete publishing solution.

BookBaby Editing is for authors who understand the importance of editing and want premium book editing or eBook editing services for an affordable price. Our exclusive network of editors works with traditionally published authors in every genre, including many on The New York Times Best Sellers list. Now, self-published authors have the opportunity to work directly with these top-flight book editors. Just start by choosing from one of our editing services below!

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Configure an editing service quote for your book.

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  • Editing Services Quote (04.30.2026)

  • Price (excludes tax)

    $0.00

  • Promo codes can be added after quote is configured

Choose the right editing service for you

Proofreading

Character-by-character review

$0.015 per word

  • For final step editing
  • Review typos and grammatical errors
screenshot of proofreading example

View Proofreading sample

  • Character-by-character final review
    ? Our editors serve as the final set of eyes to view an author's manuscript. Many authors choose multiple rounds of book editing, and this round of editing can be of tremendous value.
  • Spelling and punctuation check
    ? BookBaby’s process works to detect and remove a wide range of spelling and punctuation mistakes, including confusion between words with similar spelling, typos and minor punctuation glitches.
  • Intensive grammar audit
    ? BookBaby’s editors are experienced in removing grammar glitches that range from wrong verb tenses, lack of agreement between subject and verb, and wrong prepositions. They will glean your files looking for issues with comma splices, run-on sentences and more.
  • Adherence to Chicago Manual of Style
  • Estimated Timeline: 6-8 days
  • Learn more about Proofreading

Copy Editing

Word-by-word mechanical edit

$0.025 per word

  • Best for non-fiction authors
  • Covers technical consistency
screenshot of copy editing example

View Copy Editing sample

  • Word-by-word mechanical edit
  • Word choice and syntax inspection
    ? Copy editing focuses on an author's choice of words in concert with sentence syntax and context. With the structure of a story established, our authors carefully review the range of words that our authors have chosen. Their ‘second set of eyes’ helps to establish an author's style and confidence in the expression of language that his target audience will understand. This is coupled with a focus on editing for proper syntax. This process involves checking additional aspects of the manuscript such as sentence structure, transitions, parallelism, sentence variety, and conciseness.
  • Spelling and punctuation check
    ? BookBaby’s process works to detect and remove a wide range of spelling and punctuation mistakes, including confusion between words with similar spelling, typos, and minor punctuation glitches.
  • Intensive grammar audit
    ? BookBaby’s editors are experienced in removing grammar glitches that range from wrong verb tenses, lack of agreement between subject and verb, and wrong prepositions. They will glean your files looking for issues with comma splices, run-on sentences and more.
  • Basic proofreading
  • Adherence to Chicago Manual of Style
  • Estimated Timeline: 7-9 days
  • Learn more about Copy Editing

Line Editing

Line-by-line stylistic editing

$0.04 per word

  • Most popular editing for authors!
  • Perfect for 1st time authors
screenshot of line editing example

View Line Editing sample

  • Line-by-line stylistic editing
  • Intensive overall structural edit
    ? A structural edit is the process that comes first, after a manuscript is completed. It involves looking at the ‘big picture’ elements of the narrative and characters and examining which of these elements are working and which could be improved, cut or changed altogether.
  • Word choice and syntax inspection
    ? Our editors understand that word choice is an important part of any story. The precise choice of words reflects an author's style and confidence in the expression of language that his target audience will understand. Our editors seek to maintain consistency in this key element of the manuscript. Editing for proper syntax involves checking additional aspects of the manuscript, such as sentence structure, transitions, parallelism, sentence variety, and conciseness.
  • Plot and pacing review
    ? Our editors check to see if the plot plausible: Does it make sense? Are there any gaping plot holes that need fixing? A pacing review checks to see if the narrative is always moving forward. Are there parts of the story that lag and slow the reader down?
  • Survey transition elements
    ? Transitional devices are words or phrases that help carry a thought from one sentence to another, from one idea to another, or from one paragraph to another. Our editors check to ensure transitional devices link sentences and paragraphs together smoothly so that there are no abrupt jumps or breaks between ideas.
  • Audit tone and style
    ? Style and tone are elements of fiction. Our editors help the writer maintain their choice of style and tone to craft the story. Style refers to the writer’s choice of diction, sentence structure, literary techniques, and use of rhythm. While tone refers to the writer’s attitude toward his/her story and to the reader.
  • Review character development
    ? Character development is the process of building a unique, three-dimensional character with depth, personality, and clear motivations. Our editors look to help the authors boost and enhance each unique voice in the story, with particular attention to the changes a character undergoes over the course of a story as a result of their actions and experiences.
  • Writing flow enhancement
    ? Editors take a critical eye to the overall story creation. Does the style of writing suit the genre? Is the language overly flowery and verbose? Could the author add more lyrical elements to the manuscript?
  • Voice maintenance
    ? Our editors are looking for consistency. Is the overall voice and tense authentic and constant throughout the manuscript?
  • Basic proofreading
  • Editor's notes and comments
    ? After reviewing the entire manuscript, BookBaby’s editors compose an original set of notes and comments on the manuscript. It’s one of the most valuable aspects of the line editing and our authors have found these to be both instructive and inspirational.
  • Adherence to Chicago Manual of Style
  • Estimated Timeline: 8-10 days
  • Learn more about Line Editing

Not sure what type of editing you need?
Give us a call at 877-961-6878.

Why trust us to edit your book?

BookBaby's network of editors is experienced with nonfiction books like biographies and academic journals, and a range of fiction novels too — from sci-fi to romances and literary fiction. Many are seasoned professionals who have worked with bestselling authors across multiple genres and a few publishing houses, too.

All editors have an academic degree in English, Communications, Education, Literature, Journalism, or another study relevant to publishing. Each expert editor uses the industry-standard Chicago Manual of Style and specific guidelines to complete their work. But many are also adept within other popular styles, including AP and MLA, ensuring your written content receives expert, substantive editing and academic editing that meets your needs. Whether you are working on a standard book, an academic book, or complex academic writing, our expertise ensures your texts are ready for readers. We offer a free sample edit to showcase our quality compared to others like Scribendi.

You can expect to have your edited professional manuscript ready in 6 to 10 business days for final publication.

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Not sure which type of book editing service you need?

Download our free editing guide

Got questions?

Call us at 877-961-6878

How BookBaby’s editing process works

1. Choose your editing package

1. Choose the book editing service you need.

2. Upload your Word document

2. Upload your Word document.

3. Retrieve your edited manuscript

3. Receive your professionally edited manuscript in 6-10 business days.

You don’t have to place a book order to take advantage of our professional book editing services. All you need is your finished manuscript and the right tools to get things started.

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Frequently asked questions:

What types of editing services does BookBaby offer?

BookBaby offers three main editing services: proofreading, copy editing, and line editing. We also provide an editorial assessment for deeper structural needs. Proofreading is the final check for typos, spelling, punctuation, capitalization, verb tense, and grammar issues. Copy editing provides a word-by-word review that addresses grammar, usage, consistency, typographical errors, and linguistic errors. Developmental editing is the most comprehensive service, including everything in copy editing plus attention to narrative structure, flow, tone, style, and overall editorial comments on your book.

How much do BookBaby's editing services cost?

BookBaby charges per word for all editing services. Your total book editing cost or editing cost depends on word count. Current pricing is: proofreading at $0.015 per word, copy editing at $0.025 per word, and line editing at $0.04 per word. For example, a 60,000-word manuscript would cost $900 for proofreading, $1,500 for copy editing, or $2,400 for line editing. BookBaby also offers editing for query letters and book synopses at $0.25 per word.

How long does the editing process take?

The turnaround time depends on your service level and manuscript length. Generally, you can expect to receive your edited files in 1 – 3 weeks. Copy editing typically takes 6 – 8 business days, while line editing takes 8 – 10 business days for most manuscripts. After BookBaby assigns your project to an editor, you'll receive an email notification when your edited files are ready for download.

What file format should I submit for editing?

Your manuscript must be submitted as a Microsoft Word document (.doc or .docx format only). The file should be formatted with 8.5x11" page size, 1-inch margins on all sides, Times New Roman font, and 12-point font size. Only a single manuscript file is accepted for editing services. Note that not following these specifications may result in additional charges.

How does the editing process work?

After you get a quote and check out online, BookBaby's team reviews your file and assigns it to a professional editor who specializes in your genre. The editor completes the work based on your selected service level. You'll receive an email when your edited files are ready for download (available for 60 days). You'll receive two Word files: a “Markup” file with track changes showing suggested edits, and a “Final” file with all edits already accepted.

Can I communicate directly with my editor?

Direct communication with your editor is not available through BookBaby's editing services. However, your editor will provide detailed feedback, comments, and suggestions throughout the edited manuscript. If you have questions about the edits, these are addressed through the tracked changes and editorial notes left in your document.

Who are BookBaby's editors?

BookBaby works with an experienced team of professional editors across the globe, including editors who have worked with bestselling authors in all genres, from young adult to self-help to non-fiction. When you submit your manuscript, BookBaby matches you with editors who specialize in your particular genre to ensure they understand the conventions and expectations of your book's category.

Which editing service is right for my book?

For first-time authors, line editing is recommended, as it provides comprehensive feedback on narrative structure, flow, and style. Seasoned authors typically benefit from copy editing for a fine-tuned approach to grammar and consistency. If you're on a budget, proofreading helps catch final errors. Authors submitting to traditional publishers should consider line editing and copy editing to improve their manuscript's appeal to agents and publishers.

Can I combine multiple editing services?

Yes, combining editing services can be beneficial and cost-effective. For example, pairing line editing with copy editing gives you comprehensive structural feedback plus thorough grammatical corrections. Copy editing and proofreading together provide detailed error correction. However, if your manuscript is still in early draft stages or you're on a tight budget, prioritize the service that meets your most urgent needs first.

Will my editor format my manuscript?

No, editors do not format your manuscript. BookBaby's editing services focus solely on the content, language, grammar, and structure of your writing. Interior formatting and layout are separate services offered by BookBaby. Your edited manuscript will be returned in the same Word document format you submitted.