Ink Editorial Blog
Welcome to the Ink Editorial blog — a resource for writers at every stage of the journey. Here you’ll find practical advice on manuscript assessments, developmental editing, line and copy editing, submission packages, query letters, synopses, and the publishing process. Each article is written by Tom Witcomb, a former literary agent and Big-5 editor, to help you improve your craft, prepare for submission, and give your book the best possible chance in today’s competitive market.
Why Some Manuscripts Get Stuck in the “Messy Middle” (and How to Fix It)
The middle of a novel is where many stories lose momentum. Learn why manuscripts stall in the “messy middle” — and how to fix pacing, subplots, and stakes to carry your draft through.
When to Stop Editing and Start Querying
Editing can become an endless cycle. Here’s how to recognise when your novel is strong enough to query agents — and why chasing perfection can hold you back.
How to Build a Novel Style Sheet (Free Template)
A novel style sheet keeps every choice in one place — from spelling and punctuation to names, timelines, and tone. Download our free UK-English template and learn how to save money, cut inconsistencies, and keep your book seamless across every stage of editing.
The Role of a Manuscript Assessment in the Publishing Journey
A manuscript assessment is often the first step in professional editing. Here’s how it shapes your revision, saves you money, and positions your novel for success.
How to Spot Red Flags When Hiring a Freelance Editor
Choosing the wrong editor wastes money and derails your novel. Here’s how to spot the warning signs before you commit.
How to Balance World-Building with Pacing in Genre Fiction
World-building is a strength of fantasy, sci-fi, and historical fiction — but too much too soon can stall your story. Here’s how to integrate setting and lore without sacrificing pace.
Proofreading Pitfalls: Why a Final Pass Is More Than Typos
Proofreading is often treated as “just fixing typos”. In reality, a professional proofread catches dozens of subtle errors that can distract or derail a reader.
What Editors Wish Writers Knew Before Sending a Draft
Many writers rush to send off a draft, only to hear from an editor that it wasn’t quite ready. Here’s what professional editors wish novelists knew before pressing “send”.
How to Budget for Editing (Without Cutting Corners)
Editing is an investment, not a sunk cost. Here’s a practical way to budget for manuscript assessment, developmental, line and copy editing, and proofreading — so you get the right help at the right time without overpaying.
How to Interpret Editorial Feedback Without Losing Your Voice
Editorial feedback can feel overwhelming, especially when it challenges your draft. Here’s how to use it effectively while keeping your unique style and perspective intact.
What a Literary Agent Looks for in Sample Chapters
Sample chapters are the most important pages of your submission package. Here’s what agents look for — and how editing can ensure those chapters deliver.
The Hidden Benefits of Line Editing (Beyond Grammar)
Line editing is often confused with copy editing, but it goes far beyond fixing grammar. Here’s how line editing strengthens rhythm, clarity, and voice — and why it can transform your manuscript.
Why Pacing Problems Kill Good Manuscripts (and How Editing Fixes Them)
Pacing is the silent killer of manuscripts. Too slow, and readers drift away; too fast, and they lose clarity. Here’s how pacing issues arise — and how professional editing can help fix them.
How Self-Publishing Authors Can Benefit from Professional Editing
Self-publishing offers creative freedom, but without professional editing, your book risks being overlooked. Here’s why editing is the smartest investment indie authors can make.
What Writers Misunderstand About Developmental Editing
Developmental editing isn’t about grammar or polishing sentences. It’s about strengthening story, structure, and character. Here’s what writers often get wrong about this stage of editing.
How to Know When Your Draft Is Ready for Professional Editing
Wondering if it’s too soon to hire an editor? Here’s a clear checklist of signs that your manuscript is ready for professional editing — and when to hold off.
Why Editing Is Not the Same as Proofreading
Editing and proofreading are often confused, but they are not interchangeable. Editing strengthens structure, clarity, and style, while proofreading polishes the final text for typos and errors. Here’s how to know which service you need, and when.
How to Prepare Your Manuscript for Self-Publishing: An Editing Checklist
Getting ready to self-publish? Follow this editing checklist to make sure your book is professional, polished, and ready for readers.
Do Literary Agents Really Read the Slush Pile?
Your query letter is the first impression you make on an agent. Discover how to write a clear, compelling pitch that makes them want to read your manuscript.
How to Write a Strong Query Letter: Tips for Writers Submitting to Agents
Most submissions are rejected before an agent even reaches the first chapter. Learn the five most common mistakes in cover letters, synopses, and sample chapters — and how to fix them.