Podcast Episode
What is a sample edit?
The Editing Podcast·Louise Harnby (fiction editor) and Denise Cowle (non-fiction editor)·20 July 2026·15 min

About this episode
In this episode of The Editing Podcast, Denise and Louise discuss sample edits – what they are, how they can help, and who they’re useful for.Listen to find out more about:Asking for multiple sample edits of the same materialWhat to expect from sample line/copyedits versus proofreadsBest versus best fitPricing: are they free?Samples and schedulingSamples and filtering for ‘Frankenedits’Obligations and safe spaces
Editing bitesDirectory of Editorial Services: Society for Editors and Proofreaders (SfEP)FutureLearn writing courses (free): Start Writing Fiction (OU), An Introduction to Screenwriting (UEA), Introduction to Forensic Science (University of Strathclyde; crime writers will find this useful)
Plus:'Is Hiring a Developmental Editor Cheating?' by Molly McCowanEpisode transcriptsYou can access transcripts of this episode via Denise and Louise's websites:Denise CowleLouise Harnby
Ask us a questionThe easiest way to ping us a question is via Facebook Messenger: Visit the podcast's Facebook page and click on the SEND MESSAGE button.Denise and LouiseDenise Cowle Editorial Services (non-fiction)Louise Harnby | Proofreader & Copyeditor (fiction)
Music credit‘Vivacity’ Kevin MacLeod...