It is important to work out what you want from the editing process. You need to consider:
- How feedback is provided. This can vary by editor, from handwritten mark-up on your manuscript (posted to you) to track changes in an electronic document.
- The level of editing you require. This may depend on whether this is the first submission or a ‘review and resubmit’, and whether you require only a grammatical check or also a sense-check.
- Whether you need the editor to cross-check citations/references. This may depend on whether you use a referencing software.
- Whether you need the editor to check your content aligns with the target publication. If this is the case, I recommend sending the editor the style guide and at least one recent publication. Style guides are rarely comprehensive.
- The level of formatting required. For example, headings, references, tables, data, etc.
There are many ways you can save time and money, and allow the editor to focus on the content. For example, using a referencing software saves the editor time cross-checking citations. However, make sure the data in the referencing software is correct.
Do not be surprised at the work involved for both you and the editor. Working with the same editor over time will make the process more efficient.
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