How To Find a Screenplay Editor to Take Your Script to the Next Level

Script editor, script consultant, script doctor - there are a couple of names for it, but the point is that most screenwriters will want a little professional advice on their screenplays at some point. How does a writer find a screenplay editor they can trust? What things should you look for before hiring one? Today, I'm going to tell you how to find an editor to help take your screenplay to the next level!

Is Hiring a Script Editor Right For You and Your Work?

There are a few questions a writer should ask themselves before looking for someone to edit your story. Is it ready for editing? Is it at a place where you feel that it requires outside eyes to strengthen it? Is there more that you can do on your own before sending your screenplay out for editing? What are you hoping to get out of having someone edit it - do you want someone to help strengthen a single scene, or does all the content need a one-over?

Script editors can provide a variety of services for your story and its content. This can consist of notes that focus on character, story, or specific scenes, or something as thorough as a line edit where an editor literally goes line by line through your screenplay. Be aware that the cost will increase with the depth of screenwriting editing you're looking to receive.

Where do you find an editor for your screenplay?

First, know the definition of a script editor:

There's a difference between an editor and a reader. The term "script reader" refers to a literary agent who reads manuscripts submitted to them by writers seeking representation. A script editor's job involves going through every single scene and analyzing and possibly improving each element within it. While both terms refer to people who read screenplays, there is a big difference between reading and performing the work it takes to get the screenplay in tip-top shape. 

Film and TV Script Editor Services

There are many professional services online that will assign someone to go over your screenplay. They often offer different tiers of editing with differing prices. Make sure you're not confusing coverage with editing or doctoring. There are a ton of variations of "hired help" in the film industry. Script coverage will provide you with a summary of sorts that gives you a better idea of where your story fits in the pack: does it need work, or would an assistant pass it up the chain of command to a producer? Paid script coverage will typically include a few pages of analysis and scores on your plot, characters, dialogue, and originality. A script doctor or editor, however, will actually go through your screenplay line by line and suggest or make changes and make sure the formatting is up to industry standard. It's important to research and read reviews to see how happy other writers have been with the coverage they've received. Some excellent coverage services include:

Other Writers

A great option if you’re looking to save money is to trade editing services with other writers. If you have a group of writer friends, reach out and ask if anyone’s interested in exchanging scripts for editing!

Friends

Never overlook the helpfulness of having a good friend read your stuff! Even if your friends or family aren’t involved in the industry, they can still provide useful feedback and notice things you’ve missed in your writing. It’s always good to get fresh eyes on your projects.

How to Find a Script Editor You Can Trust

Not all script consultants, editors, and doctors are created equal. Here are five questions to ask yourself and the person or company you’re looking to hire:

Hopefully, this blog was able to shed some light on screenplay editing and give you some ideas about how to go about finding an editor! Happy writing and good luck editing!