This past summer, I completed ELVTR’s Editor in Book Publishing course as part of my effort to understand the publishing industry better and build a stronger foundation for a future in freelance editing and industry-related positions. The six-week program provided an in-depth look at the editorial process from both the creative and business perspectives. Through live online classes, industry guest speakers, and practical assignments, I learned about manuscript acquisition, developmental editing, copyediting, production, marketing, and the many moving parts involved in bringing a book from idea to publication.
What I appreciated most about the course was its focus on real-world application. Rather than simply discussing editorial theory, we completed hands-on assignments that mirrored the work editors do every day. We practiced manuscript evaluations, editing exercises, fact-checking, and portfolio-building projects that challenged me to think critically about both the reader experience and the publishing marketplace. The course also introduced me to the realities of freelance editing, including how to position services, build professional relationships, and navigate the publishing industry.
Beyond the technical skills I gained, the course reinforced something I had already begun to discover through my own reading and editing projects: great editing is about more than correcting grammar or catching mistakes. It’s about understanding story structure, character development, pacing, and the emotional impact a book has on its readers. The experience gave me valuable insight into the publishing process as a whole and helped shape the way I approach editing today. I will be thanking the Instagram algorithm for sending me for this course through ads.
Below, I have attached some screenshots of the work I completed during my six weeks in the Editor in Book Publishing course provided by ELVTR, along with the certificate I received.
Manuscript Transmittal
Line Editing
Fact Checking
Certificate of Completion
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