Process & Timeline

Curious about what the editorial process and timeline look like when working with Wheeless Edits? You’re in the right place. Below is a simple overview of what you can expect, from your first inquiry to your final file.

My editorial process is designed to keep communication clear, the timeline organized, and the editing experience collaborative from start to finish.

The Intake Process

Editorial Process & Timeline Contact me questionnaire banner

Reach Out and Share a Sample

Start by filling out the Contact Me Questionnaire and
sending along a sample of your writing. This helps me
get a feel for your project, your voice, and the kind of
support you may need.

Complete the Intake
Questionnaire

I will email you an Intake Questionnaire to fill out and return.
This gives me a clearer picture of your goals, preferences,
and project details.

Project Discussion

We will talk through your timeline, the level of editing
needed, and any other important details. This is also a
great time to ask questions and make sure we are a
good fit.

Review Your Proposal
and Contract

After our discussion, I will send you a proposal with a quote
for your project. Once we both agree to move forward, we
will sign the contract and begin. A 50% deposit is due at
this stage.

What the Editorial Process & Timeline Looks Like

Step 1: First Pass. I will complete the first pass on your manuscript or project and return it to you for review.

Step 2: Collaborative Consultation. We will meet to discuss my
feedback together and make sure everything still feels cohesive as we move forward.

Step 3: Your Review. You will review my suggestions,
accept the changes that feel right, leave comments, and share any additional thoughts or questions.

Step 4: Second Pass, if included. If your service includes a second pass,
I will complete that final review of the project here, rereading the manuscript
in full and making any additional edits as needed.

Step 5: Final Delivery. Once final payment has been processed, I will return your completed work along with any additional deliverables.

FAQ

Still have questions about the process and timeline?

Read my blog post, Explaining the Editorial Process, for a more in-depth look at what working together is like. You can also contact me to schedule a free 15-minute Discovery Call so we can talk through your project and determine the best next step.

How do I know if you are a good fit for my project?

I recommend start with my About page and reading my blog posts How to Choose an Editor and How I Keep Feedback Kind and Constructive . Choosing an editor is personal, and it matters that you feel comfortable, respected, and supported throughout the process. If we are not the right fit, I am happy to help point you toward other editors to consider.

How will we communicate while working together?

I am comfortable communicating by phone, email, or video call, whichever method feels best for you. I stay in touch throughout the project by email for updates and quick questions. For the intake conversation or collaborative consultation, a phone or video call is often the most helpful way to talk through the project in more depth.

Testimonials

“Stephanie Wheeless delivers what she promises—a thorough review of your materials that achieves the highest quality final product. I highly recommend her as a copy editor.”
– Stephanie Wright, Author

“I’m very grateful to know Mrs. Wheeless, she is my life savior from now on. I am the owner of a little bakery, English is not my first language which makes it difficult for me to communicate with people in an effective and clear way. My goal is to send a clear message through words to our customers so they can relate with us. Here is when Mrs. Wheeless comes to play such an important role, besides I am learning from her as well while working together. So grateful for her professionalism, knowledge, support and presence in my business communications journey if you will. Thank you very much, Claudia”
– Claudia Glazier, owner of Buttery Baking House

“Stephanie Wheeless is a marvelous editor. Her attention to detail, and syllables, proved invaluable to me. Stephanie is supportive, professional, witty, patient and understanding. She edited an academically demanding fellowship submission and put this new writer at ease. I am delighted to report that I look forward to working with Stephanie again soon. With Stephanie’s expert guidance I was proud of my submission. Thousands of writers apply for this fellowship. It is awarded to 5 each year. My goal was to submit my application and without Stephanie’s editorial assistance I am certain I would still be tinkering with page 3.”

– Susan Cohn, author

“My experience with Stephanie was first rate. What began as an editorial project soon morphed into a book coaching relationship. I am certain that I would not have applied for this fellowship without Stephanie’s guidance. She is so through that she read the books I use as foundational so as to better understand the structure of my book.”

– Susan Cohn, author