Immediate — Do Right Now
- Assess your manuscript's current state using the "Ready Enough" criteria from p.18
- Three full revision passes? Beta readers can follow it? Major structural issues addressed?
- Set up AI tools for research and editing assistance
- Grammarly (grammar), ProWritingAid (in-depth analysis) — free versions work to start
- Create a revision schedule with specific deadlines
- Set end dates for each pass — structure, flow, prose. Write them in your calendar.
- Identify 5 potential beta readers in your target audience
- Not family. Regular readers of your genre who will give honest feedback.
This Week
- Complete one full read-through of your manuscript, taking notes — don't fix yet
- Research and contact potential beta readers with a clear brief and specific questions
- Set up your self-editing workflow: print version, read-aloud schedule, tracking document
- Get quotes from 3 professional editors (copy edit + proofread minimum) for your manuscript length
This Month
- Complete all self-editing passes before sending to beta readers
- Send your best work, not your first draft. Beta readers are not your proofreaders.
- Send manuscript to beta readers with specific questions and a deadline
- Research formatting tools and decide on DIY vs professional service
- Vellum (Mac), Atticus (cross-platform), or hire a professional ($200–500)
- Create your full editing budget and production timeline
- Copy edit + proofread minimum. Add developmental or line editing only if beta feedback reveals major issues.