What is a Developmental Edit?
A developmental edit is a thorough analysis of your manuscript. It focuses on big picture aspects like the story, the plot, the characters, your author voice and the structure of the story.
With nonfiction, it’s still a story, but more emphasis is on the structure of the book and how we can best help the reader.
A developmental edit will show you what’s working and what isn’t, with advice on how to improve every aspect of the book.
Authors usually have a developmental edit first, to get the story / structure right, before moving on to a copy edit or line edit and then a final proofread.
What Does it Cover?
The edit is wide ranging and covers all aspects of your book. Each book is different, so you will receive guidance tailored specifically to your book.
But, in general the edit covers the following aspects:
- POV (Point of View)
- Tense
- Character development
- The plot
- Story / book structure
- Story consistency
- Plot holes
- Congruity of characters
- Exposition / areas that need tightening up
- Dialogue
What’s Included?
- Extensive notes and highlights on the manuscript itself
- Chapter by chapter analysis
- Notes on your main characters
- Notes on the structure of the book
- Detailed feedback on any issues, and clear advice on how to fix them (with examples)
- 30+ page report. With easy to follow guidance
- Once completed, I am always available for any follow up questions you may have
How Will the Developmental Edit Help Your Book?
My developmental edit makes sure your book is as good as it can possibly be. And the better your book, the better it will be received by your readers.
I hope you will be delighted with the improvements I suggest.
Kristen Echo – Puck Battle Series
Canadian Author of 15 Romance Novels
When I set out to find an editor, I wasn’t sure what my books needed. Michael’s approachable manner made it easy for me to ask questions, and I asked a lot. His quick responses and timelines convinced me to take a chance. I’m so glad I did. His feedback and edits are spot on. I’ve been fortunate to have worked with Michael on fourteen books. His professionalism and eye for prose keeps me coming back again and again.
