Managing Multiple Editing Projects
In addition to being the editor of our weekly newsletter, I am also the Head Editor for CG Sports Publishing. It’s honestly one of the coolest gigs one could ask for because I get paid to read books, write about sports, and help people achieve their dreams of publishing a book.
2024 is going to be a bangin’ year for CG Sports Publishing with 7 books currently projected to be released. This means that I sometimes have multiple books in the queue to work on and, since editing is more than just a one-and-done read, there are a few things I need to do to stay organized:
I create timelines. This starts with the full team (client included) working backwards from a goal publishing date and is super crucial. Timelines ensure that all of the team has the necessary time with the book without being rushed. After I receive a manuscript and the team has created a goal publishing date, I can then create my editing timeline (typically 6-8 weeks minimum). This editing specific timeline allows for the following: time to read the manuscript multiple times and dive into the nitty gritty of the details, send editing suggestions/feedback to the client, meet with the client, and more.
Note: timelines can and do change. Putting forth the best product that the client loves is the most important thing.
I block out reading time in my schedule. Books are not edited in a day and editing a book for structure, clarity, and more requires a lot of active reading. Each manuscript that passes through my desk is read multiple times, which is why the editing timeline is a 6-8 week minimum. This includes time for multiple reads, but also meetings with the client to discuss edits and time for the client to approve edits and/or add to areas that may need revision.
I am addicted to sticky notes. Yep, I’m that person. (Don’t believe me, ask Cejih about our last CG Sports Publishing summit sometime.) And while owning 5+ colors of sticky notes may seem chaotic, it is ridiculously helpful in keeping notes for multiple manuscripts organized (hello, color coordination)!
The next time you find yourself with multiple projects, I highly suggest you do the following: Pause; clarify the timeline you have to work with; create a system that helps you work; and then crush it.
