AboutMark David Gerson Expertise Happy to answer questions about writing, writer's block, publishing/self-publishing. Can
answer general questions, but not available to critique work.
Experience Published author; have taught writing for 15 years at colleges, universities and community centers in the U.S. and Canada. Successful freelance writer for more than a decade, working with newspapers, magazines and institutional clients.
Organizations Southwest Writers
New Mexico Book Co-op
Publications Author of the fantasy adventure, The MoonQuest, and the book of writing inspiration and practice, The Voice of the Muse: Answering the Call to Write. Freelanced full-time as a writer, journalist and editor for more than a decade. Published in a wide range of publications. Free inspirational e-newsletter has 1200 subscribers in more than a dozen countries.
Education/Credentials Published Author. Published Freelance Writer. More than 15 years of teaching/coaching/consulting.
Awards and Honors Award-Winning Finalist in Visionary Fiction, National Best Books 2007 Awards; New Mexico Discovery Award 2006
Expert: Mark David Gerson Date: 10/13/2007 Subject: Getting your book ready to go to a publisher/agent
Question Hi, I'm trying to finish up a nonfiction book that I've written. My main problem is that I don't have the editing skills to do this myself,so I was thinking about taking a "Writers Digest" online class to accomplish this goal. My fear is that another student or even the teacher might plagiarize my book. Is there a way I can copyright it (even though it's not finalized) to protect myself?
Thanks!
Answer Dear Pamela,
A few points. The first is that it's always a good idea to have an outside editor go over your work. At the very least, that editor will pick up things you are bound to miss because, as proficient as are your editing skills, you will have read and reread your manuscript so often that your eyes will skip over errors others will catch. Learning good editing skills is important. Having a fresh, professional eye is equally if not more important.
Second, the fear of plagiarism is always greater than the risk. Many writers, particularly beginning writers, express the fear that someone will still their work. Of course it happens, but very rarely.
At the same time, you want to be certain that both you and your work are protected. You can certainly register a copyright for your work even it it's not finalized. Visit http://www.copyright.gov for more information about how copyright works and about how to register your work.
