Editing Your Manuscript on a Budget: Quality You Can Trust

For many independent and self-published authors, editing is one of the most intimidating stages of the publishing process. You’ve poured time, emotion, and energy into your story, but the thought of handing it over (and paying for professional editing) feels like another mountain to climb.

Photo by Vitaly Gariev

We understand that hesitation. At The Manuscript Editor (TME), we’ve heard from countless writers who want to refine their work but feel unsure about where to start—or if they can even afford to. That’s why we created editing solutions that are transparent, flexible, and genuinely within reach.

Why Many Indie Authors Hesitate

Editing isn’t optional; it’s what turns a good story into a publishable one. But for most independent authors, professional editing feels out of budget. Others aren’t sure what kind of editing they actually need, or whether the process will preserve their voice.

At TME, we address those concerns head-on:

• Affordability: Our pricing starts at just $0.015 per word for proofreading and $0.019 for in-depth line editing.

  
  

• Transparency: We explain exactly what each service covers, so you know what you’re paying for.

  
  

• Respect for Voice: Every manuscript is handled by real human editors—professionals who refine your work with insight, precision, and care.

  
  

We believe quality editing shouldn’t be exclusive to large publishers. It should be accessible to every writer with a story to tell.

Editing at Your Own Pace

Big projects can be overwhelming, especially when deadlines, costs, and revisions all pile up. That’s why TME offers subscription-based editing plans that let you work in manageable stages.

Our monthly plans start at $38.88 and include up to 7,500 words of professional editing—perfect for writers who want to improve chapter by chapter without the stress of a lump-sum payment. Each plan includes proofreading, copyediting, and line editing, with discounts on add-ons like book cover design and pre-publishing support.

Think of it as having your own editorial team on call, helping you move forward consistently, affordably, and with the same level of quality we bring to full-length manuscripts.

We focus on clarity, consistency, and rhythm while respecting your creative intent. Whether you’re preparing to self-publish, submit to a small press, or simply want your book to feel “ready,” TME provides the polish and guidance your work deserves.

Because editing is about amplifying what’s already there: your voice, your vision, your craft.

Publishing independently doesn’t mean doing it alone. With The Manuscript Editor, you gain a trusted partner committed to helping you bring out your best work: one edit, one chapter, one milestone at a time.

Explore our affordable, subscription-based editing plans at themanuscripteditor.com, and make professional editing part of your publishing journey today.