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It’s easy to get bogged down in the world of publishing and editing, particularly as a first-time author. There are so many voices and so many suggestions, but how do you know what’s right for you and for your journey? Does your book really need a developmental editor and why? And what about the horror stories you’ve heard?

I get it. It’s confusing at best and scary at worst. But let me assure you, editing is a partnership. A collaboration. One your book will greatly benefit from. Don’t believe me? Keep reading. Today we’re going to unpack some common misconceptions about developmental editing and walk you through the process to help you make the best decision for your story. Are you ready? Let’s dig in!

Common misconceptions about developmental editing
To better understand whether developmental editing is right for you, there are a few misconceptions we should clear up. First, let’s talk about what developmental editing isn’t.

Developmental editors will rewrite the story
Developmental editors will not write the story for you. Sure, a developmental editor will give examples of how the writing could be improved, but if you’re looking for a partner to fill in the holes for you, you’re looking for a ghostwriter or a collaborative writer.

I partnered with an author who had worked on their memoir for years. They couldn’t bring themself to relive the experience again. They preferred I handle rewriting all the text when revisions and enhancements were necessary. I moved chapters around to create a more ordered story and added the elements necessary to keep readers engaged and immersed in the experiences of the story. I was happy to assist them, but that service moved from developmental editing to ghostwriting (or collaborative writing) when I began adding elements to the story.

A developmental editor will give you examples, but you will choose how and when to implement the suggestions. You have complete control.

Developmental editors will work with you until the story is complete
If you’re looking for ongoing support as you finish your book, writing or revising, you need a book coach. A developmental edit will have a defined beginning and end.
Typically, developmental editors will offer one round of revision per contract. That round often includes two passes through your manuscript and a comprehensive editorial letter, plus an onboarding or discovery call and an offboarding or hand-off call.

If you are interested in partnering with someone who will walk you through the writing process or help you as you complete your revisions, a book coach would be the best fit for you. A book coach will collaborate with you through designated check-ins via email or phone to help you stay motivated, hold you accountable, give feedback on revisions, etc. A book coach stays with you until the manuscript is complete or you have received the guidance you need.

Developmental editors will change the whole story
Developmental editors are also not looking to strip your voice and style from the manuscript. They are looking for big-picture issues in the structure and development of a book. They will offer feedback and suggestions for improving or strengthening those areas, but ultimately, it is your choice whether or not to implement their suggestions.

I tell my authors that my ideas are just suggestions. They can accept them as given, use them as inspiration for their own great ideas, or discard them completely when they don’t resonate.

Developmental editors are your support in the creation process. They are collaborators. They are cheerleaders. Sure, they will challenge you to grow and become a stronger author, but a quality editor won’t take over the manuscript, and they will respect your voice and vision for the story.

What does developmental editing look like
So, now you know what developmental editing isn’t. Let’s talk about what you can expect when you solicit the help of a developmental editor.

And believe me, I get it. It can be scary to turn your manuscript over to a developmental editor. You’ve poured your heart into this piece. You’re vulnerable. And receiving criticism over something so personal can be downright hard. But I assure you, when you have the right editor, you will be inspired, motivated, and excited about the possibilities they bring to the table. So, let’s talk about what a developmental edit looks like.

First, you need to know that every editor is different. It is important that you find the right editor for you. The process will be dramatically enhanced by finding the editor that suits your personality, communication style, and needs. That means that the process may vary slightly from one editor to another. However, the overall structure of the edit should remain the same.

The editor will request the manuscript. Yes, the entire book. I know this can sound alarming, but a quality editor, just like a quality doctor, needs to know what they are working with before they can make effective recommendations. Many authors think they need a developmental edit when they really need a manuscript evaluation. Your editor can’t determine the best way to guide you without first examining your work.

Once they have done an initial review, they can confirm your manuscript’s needs and prepare a quote for their services or suggest an alternative edit. If you decide to move forward with their quoted service, they will read your entire manuscript thoroughly.

When I complete a developmental edit, I make notes for myself as I do the first read-through, noticing areas that readers might struggle with. I will never have the opportunity to have a first exposure to your book again, so these notes give me the best insights into what a typical reader would experience.

Next, I go through the manuscript a second time much more slowly and provide specific examples and feedback on issues or strengths I want you to be aware of. Developmental editing isn’t just about finding areas of improvement. It’s also about providing encouragement for the areas of the story that allow the reader to connect emotionally. The parts of the story that resonate with readers. And the parts that allow them to become immersed deeply in the story world. Understanding the strengths of the story is just as important as understanding the opportunities. It’s about taking a holistic approach to building the story into the best version of itself.

After I have completed two full passes, I will begin to compose the editorial letter. This letter is a very detailed explanation of what you will find in the manuscript. It walks you through using and understanding the recommendations offered in the edit. It addresses strengths and opportunities found within the manuscript, and it provides resources and next steps.

I encourage my authors to read the entire editorial letter first, then look through the suggested revisions in the manuscript. I suggest they take a few days or a week to process the information and contact me when they are ready to schedule a call. This phone or Zoom call provides us with time to talk through the edits and allows questions to be asked and answered on both sides. It provides clear next steps and helps the author tackle any changes from a position of control, confidence, and capability.

Remember, the goal of a developmental editor is to ensure your writing is the best it can be. The feedback they provide will be aimed at helping you meet the expectations of your target audience and align your book with industry standards.

Conclusion: A transformative partnership
Developmental editing partnerships are wonderful and transformative collaborations that allow you to grow and enhance your story beyond what you dreamed possible. It’s a connection with another creative mind that aims to support and uplift you. It’s a relationship with someone who wants to see you achieve your goals and grow in your craft and in your career.

It’s an opportunity to ask questions, talk through possibilities, and locate the hidden gems within your story. It’s time. Take the next step. Reach out to the editor that aligns with your values and style. You’ll be so glad you did.

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“What does a development edit do?”

It’s a fair question, and according to an internet search, one that has been asked by hundreds of aspiring authors every month along with: How do I know if I need a developmental edit? When do I seek a developmental editor? How much does a developmental edit cost?

What they often mean is, is a developmental edit really necessary for me?

Let’s be honest, writing a book isn’t cheap. Making a career as an author takes time and money. Two things many writers don’t always have an excess of. So, the first step is knowledge. When you understand what developmental editing is and what it can do for you, you are better equipped to make the best decisions for you and your book.

Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting your publishing journey, grasping the concept of developmental editing can make a profound difference in your work. In this article, we'll delve into the intricacies of developmental editing, exploring its significance and impact on writing.

From understanding the stages of developmental editing to deciphering the role of a developmental editor, I'll equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about your writing process. Get ready to unlock the full potential of your writing through the power of developmental editing.

What is developmental editing?
Developmental editing (also called substantive or structural editing) goes beyond surface-level corrections; it focuses on:

• Overall structure
• Pacing
• Coherence
• Character Development
• Plot Development
• Show vs Tell
• Dialogue
• Tone
• Setting

By working closely with a developmental editor, you can refine your ideas, strengthen your storytelling, and enhance the overall impact of your work. These changes don’t just improve your story though. They will help you build your knowledge of writing craft, audience preferences, and even publishers’ expectations. This knowledge will give you confidence as you build your pitches and queries and begin the next phase of your publishing journey.

Working with a developmental editor can also breathe new life into stale manuscripts, helping you overcome challenges and fall in love with your manuscript again. If your manuscript has been sitting in a drawer because you don’t know how to overcome a specific plot element or character issue, a developmental edit may be just what you need to push through that obstacle.

Developmental edits allow you to talk through ideas, ask questions, and gain insight into resources and best practices. They give you practical examples to guide you, and they may open your eyes to possibilities within your story that you didn’t even know existed.

Developmental editors are educated and gifted in helping authors through the creative process, and they will partner with you to transform your book into a captivating and compelling piece no matter what stage it’s in.

The role of a developmental editor
A developmental editor is a partner in the early stages of your writing journey. Their role is to evaluate the big picture of your manuscript. They are going to help you develop the piece and overcome challenges you may experience with character development, story arc, plot development, conflict resolution, character agency, and more. They will offer feedback and suggestions for strengthening your writing craft, balancing dialogue and narrative, using show vs tell to your benefit, and avoiding common pitfalls.

A developmental editor is a collaborator. Their goal, first and foremost, is to do no harm. They aren’t there to strip your story of vision or voice. They ask questions. They talk through ideas. They encourage you to dig deeper and reach new levels of understanding within your story world and with your characters. When you partner with a developmental editor, you can uncover the potential in yourself and in your writing that you didn’t see before.

The benefits of developmental editing
Developmental editing can take a weak manuscript and strengthen it into a book readers will love.

It can take a strong manuscript and enhance it to new levels.

Developmental editors can help authors avoid negative reader reviews that come when a story structure hasn’t been firmly established or when characters are flat and unrelatable. And they can help an author grow in their craft, creating stronger stories that build their author brand and keep readers coming back for more.

Developmental editors challenge, encourage, and cheer you on. They will refine your ideas, help you improve your writing skills, save you time and money, and help you increase your marketability. Let’s explore each one of those a little deeper.

Refining your ideas
A developmental editor helps you polish your concepts, bringing your stories to life in the most effective way possible. They work to ensure the message you want to convey to readers is presented clearly and in the manner readers want to receive. They can identify areas where your manuscript can be improved (dropped storylines, confusing flow, etc.), helping you avoid common pitfalls. Ultimately, developmental editors work to make your ideas shine and your writing sing.

Improving your writing skills
A large part of the developmental editing process is the editorial letter. This letter is several pages long detailing the strengths of your writing as well as the areas in which you can continue to grow. This feedback can provide you with insights into effective sentence structure, descriptions, dialogue, etc. It will also provide examples and additional resources to help you improve areas of your craft.

The feedback from a developmental editor will encourage you and motivate you to stretch your skills beyond your current capabilities benefitting you both now and in the future.

Saving time and money
Unfortunately, I have seen this scenario too many times. New authors seek copyeditors for their books without investing in a developmental editor first. They assume that when they are told they need an editor, this means they simply need someone to check for misspellings and incorrect grammar. That is a necessary step in the editing process, but it’s not the first step.

Without a thorough developmental edit, you could be paying for a service that doesn’t adequately prepare your book for publication. This often results in bad reviews due to structural errors. Money is wasted on the copyedit. Time is wasted on publishing a book that wasn’t adequately prepared. And your credibility and reputation are tarnished. Fortunately, this is all avoidable. When you partner with a developmental editor as your first step in the editing process, you identify areas for improvement early on, preventing costly mistakes and unnecessary revisions later in the publishing process.

Enhancing marketability
Self-publishing has made it easier than ever to put a book on the market. The competition is fierce. One of the best ways to compete against the best-sellers lining the shelves is to ensure you have created a book that meets professional standards. This means uprooting potential discrepancies, dropped storylines, flat characters, etc. This means providing a book that will deliver on genre conventions and reader expectations. A developmental editor will help you do that.

A well-edited manuscript is also more likely to appeal to agents and publishers, helping you to establish the relationships necessary to move your publishing career forward.

Conclusion: Why a developmental editor is right for you
Developmental editing ensures you are building your story on a firm foundation. When we are close to our stories, it is easy to assume readers understand our characters as we do.

We know them intimately.

It’s easy to assume our readers can follow the organization of our thoughts.

After all, it makes sense to us.

However, readers don’t live inside your head. They haven’t spent thousands of hours walking through each step of your outline or visualizing your story world. This is where the eyes of an experienced developmental editor will open doors you didn’t know were closed. They will shine light in the dark places and breathe life into stale characterizations.

​Don’t sell yourself short. Your career and your story deserve the best. And your readers will thank you for it.

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You’ve dug deeply into your manuscript. Sculpted scenes. Crafted an immersive new world. Wrestled with the pain, turmoil, and conflict facing your characters. Countless hours of blood, sweat, and tears—ok maybe not literally, but the truth is you have poured your heart into this project and ventured into new depths of vulnerability you have never experienced before. Now what?

It’s time to find that editing partner that will challenge, encourage, and cheer you on through your editing journey.

The partner that will mine, excavate, polish, and refine your beautiful words into gems your readers can’t get enough of.

The partner that will help you achieve your publishing dreams.

This is such an exciting time! Though possibly a scary and overwhelming one as well. So where do you start? Because relationships matter. Finding the right editor matters. It matters so much that it can be tempting to call it quits before you even begin.

But you needn’t despair. I’ve included some great tips to help you find an editor that matches your personality and needs; an editor who will be diligent and experienced in your genre; an editor who will respect your voice and the vision and goals you have for your story.

So, grab a cup of coffee and a comfy chair, and let’s talk about the secrets to finding the perfect book editor for you.

The Importance of a Book Editor
First, we need to address the elephant in the room. Is a professional book editor really necessary? That’s a fair question. And in some cases, the answer is no.

If you aren’t interested in becoming a professional author, you probably don’t need a professional editor. However, if you are looking to make a career out of writing, if you want to publish a high-quality book, or if you want to grow your skills as an author, a professional editor is a necessity. And more than a necessity, they are an investment—in your current book and in your future success.

It's easy to underestimate the value a skilled editor brings to the table. Using friends, family, or AI programs to polish your text can be a tempting alternative. However, the truth is that the editing process is essential in transforming a raw draft into a polished story. One that resonates with readers. A professional editor will use their experience and knowledge to enhance the overall quality of your book and ensure that your voice and message are communicated accurately and effectively.

They will weed out the empty clichés, rework those clunky sentences, and reveal broken story threads. They will identify potential issues that prevent your story from captivating readers and from competing with those best-sellers on the shelves. After all, a well-edited book is more likely to receive positive reviews, more likely to attract literary agents, and more likely to appeal to publishers.

In a world where readers have countless options, a polished manuscript stands out. Ultimately, a book editor is not just an optional luxury. They are a partner. A collaborator. They are an investment in your writing career that can yield substantial returns for years to come.

What to Look for in a Book Editor
So, now that you know why a book editor is valuable, let’s talk about what to look for.

When searching for an editor, it is important to know what qualities and skills to prioritize. First, the editor's experience and expertise in your genre are important. Every genre has unique conventions and audience expectations, so an editor who specializes in your specific category will have a deeper understanding of what works and what doesn't. Take time to seek out editors who specialize in your genre, whether fiction or nonfiction.

Another factor to consider is the editing style and approach. Every editor is different. Some editors take a more hands-on approach, providing extensive feedback and examples directly in the manuscript and by using Word’s side comment feature.

Others may focus on offering suggestions and asking questions in the comments but make only minor adjustments and corrections in the manuscript itself. It's important to find an editor whose style resonates with you. Reading testimonials or requesting a sample edit can be great ways to gain insight into an editor's working style, helping you gauge whether they will be a good fit for you and your project.

Finally, communication is a necessary consideration for a successful editing partnership. The amount and style of communication are both important. Look for an editor who will articulate their thoughts clearly and constructively. One who provides feedback that instructs, encourages, and fosters collaboration.

Some questions to ask might include: How do they prefer to communicate? Does it match your needs and preferences? What are their working hours? How quickly do they respond to emails? Do they offer an introductory call?

Look for an editor who is responsive, approachable, and willing to engage in discussions about your manuscript. Having good rapport can make the editing process smoother and more enjoyable for both parties.

How to Find a Book Editor
Finding the right book editor can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options available. However, utilizing a systematic approach can simplify the process. If possible, start by identifying the type of editing your manuscript requires.

Editors provide various services throughout the editing process, including developmental editing, line editing, copyediting, and proofreading. While these services can go by different names or even be combined in various ways, each type of editing serves a unique purpose and addresses different aspects of the manuscript.

Developmental editors focus on structure, character development, and pacing, while line editors look at syntax, refining the prose at a line level. Copyeditors concentrate on grammar, punctuation, and style consistency, and proofreaders catch any lingering typos or formatting issues before the book goes to print.

Understanding these distinctions is important for authors seeking the right editor for their needs. Quality editors will walk you through the service each level offers and help you determine which components of the editing process you need.

Online Editing Platforms
If you are able to identify the type of editing your manuscript needs, online platforms dedicated to connecting authors with editors, such as Reedsy, the Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA), The Christian PEN, and various freelance marketplaces, can be great resources.

These platforms often allow you to filter editors based on their expertise, genre, and editing services offered. Additionally, many freelance editors have profiles showcasing their qualifications, experience, and client testimonials, which can aid you in making an informed choice.

If you’re not able to identify the type of editing you need, these resources can still be helpful. Start with an editor who offers the type of service you think you want. If you need something different, an experienced and quality editor is going to redirect you to the service that is best for you.

Networking with Authors and Editors
Networking is also a powerful tool for finding a book editor. Attend writing conferences, workshops, or literary events where you can meet editors in person. You may even find editors who are actively seeking new projects.

Connecting with an editor in the early stages of your writing journey is helpful as many editors are often booked months in advance. Use these networking opportunities to build your connections and establish quality relationships with other individuals even if you are just starting out. Once you’ve finished writing and have a publishing schedule in mind, having these established connections will give you and your chosen editor plenty of time to coordinate each editing phase.

Asking for Recommendations and Referrals
One of the most effective ways to find a suitable book editor is by asking for recommendations and referrals from other authors. If you belong to a writing group or community, reach out to fellow writers to inquire about their editing experiences. Personal referrals often carry more weight than online reviews, as they come from trusted sources who understand the nuances of your writing journey.

In addition to writers, consider reaching out to literary agents or publishing professionals. These individuals frequently collaborate with editors and may have valuable insights into their reputations and capabilities. Even if you are not yet at the stage of seeking representation, building relationships in the industry can open doors and provide you with a wealth of information.

Social media platforms can also be a great source of recommendations. Platforms like Threads, LinkedIn, and Facebook can connect you with editors and fellow writers who can provide valuable insights and referrals. You can also search for hashtags related to editing, which may lead you to editors who are active in the writing community. Engaging with others and asking for their experiences can lead you to discover editors you may not have encountered otherwise.

Researching Potential Book Editors
Once you've compiled a list of potential book editors, conducting thorough research is the next step.

Start by visiting their websites. Review their experience, services, testimonials, and samples of their work. Reading about other authors' experiences with a particular editor can provide valuable context and help you gauge their strengths and weaknesses. Look for feedback regarding the editor's communication style, ability to meet deadlines, and the impact their editing had on the final manuscript.

Websites also provide information about their editing processes, pricing structure, and what clients can expect. Look for any specialized training, as these can indicate a higher level of professionalism and expertise.

In addition to their websites, exploring their presence on social media can provide further insight into their work and personality. Observe how they engage with their audience and the content they share.

Do their values align with yours? Are they supportive of writers? Do they share helpful tips and resources? How do they communicate? What are they passionate about? An editor's social media presence can give you a glimpse into their approach and their commitment to the writing community.

Evaluating Book Editor Portfolios
Once you have researched editors, narrow it down to a few that resonate most with you. Next, evaluate any available editor portfolios.

Portfolios typically list the types of projects an editor has worked on and may include samples of their previous work. Take the time to read through these samples, paying attention to how the editor has improved the manuscripts. Look for clarity, coherence, and overall flow. How do they provide feedback? What do the samples reveal about their editing style?

Consider the diversity of projects the editor has worked on. An editor with experience in various genres and formats may bring a broader perspective and a wealth of knowledge to your project. However, you also want to ensure they have specific experience in your genre since genre conventions can vary significantly. A good editor will understand the unique demands of your specific market and audience.

Some editors do not provide samples of past work for reasons of confidentiality. A lack of samples does not necessarily mean they are not a qualified editor. In these cases, editors will almost always offer a sample edit of your work. These samples are generally around one thousand words, and they will give you the same insights into their editing style, communication, and the type of feedback they offer.

Additionally, don’t hesitate to ask editors for references from past clients. Speaking directly with authors who have worked with the editor can provide invaluable insights into their working relationship, professionalism, and effectiveness. This direct feedback can help you gain confidence in your choice and provide a clearer picture of what to expect when collaborating with the editor.

Speaking With Potential Book Editors
Once you've narrowed down your choices, it's time to talk with potential editors. Use this opportunity to gauge whether the editor's personality, communication style, and approach align with your vision for your manuscript. Prepare a set of questions that address your specific concerns, such as their editing process, timelines, and how they handle author feedback.

Pay attention to how the editor communicates their ideas and suggestions. A good editor should be able to articulate their thoughts clearly and provide constructive criticism in a way that is encouraging. You want an editor who matches your style, and one you feel comfortable with. Someone who respects your vision while also challenging you to improve your writing.

It's also important to discuss logistics, such as timelines and costs. Understanding how long the editing process will take and the pricing structure will help you plan your project effectively. Be transparent about your budget and any deadlines you may have. A reputable editor will appreciate your honesty and work with you to establish a timeline that meets your needs.

Understanding the Cost of Book Editing
The cost of book editing can vary widely based on several factors, including the editor's experience, the type of editing required, and the length of your manuscript. Manuscripts that have been extensively self-edited often require less professional editing, thus lowering the costs associated.

Understanding these variables is essential for budgeting your project effectively. According to the 2024 EFA rate chart, authors can expect to pay anywhere from $0.03 to $0.05 per word for developmental editing and $.025 to $.05 per word for line editing, while copy editing may range from $0.02 to $0.04 per word. Proofreading typically costs less, averaging around $0.012 to $.03 per word.

While price is an important consideration, it should not be the sole determining factor in your decision. The quality of editing can significantly impact your manuscript's success, and working with an experienced editor can also help you grow in your writing craft. Investing in a reputable editor may cost more in the short term, but it will likely yield greater returns in the long run.

When discussing costs with potential editors, ask about their payment structure. Some editors may charge by the hour, while others may offer a flat rate for the entire project. Understanding how they bill for their services will help you manage your budget more effectively.

Furthermore, many editors are willing to work with you by offering installments or completing your edits in stages that align with your budget. Finally, be cautious of editors who offer extremely low rates, as this may indicate a lack of experience or commitment to quality.

Making the Final Decision
After completing your interviews and evaluating your options, it’s time to choose an editor. Take time to pray about the decision. Remember, relationships matter. Reflect on the information you have gathered, including each editor's experience, communication style, and the rapport you established during the interview. Consider how well each editor understood your vision and goals for the manuscript. Trust your instincts; sometimes, the right choice will resonate with you intuitively.

Before signing a contract, ensure that you understand the terms and conditions outlined by the editor. This includes turnaround times, payment schedules, and the extent of editing services provided. Make sure there is clarity regarding the number of revisions included in the initial fee and how additional changes will be handled. A clear contract can prevent misunderstandings down the line.

Once you have made your decision, work with your selected editor to get on their upcoming schedule and establish a timeline for the editing process. Be open to feedback and discussions. They are on your side, and this collaboration can lead to significant improvements in your manuscript.

Remember that the editing process is a partnership aimed at elevating your writing to its fullest potential. While you don’t need to accept every revision or suggestion they make, your editor is eager to support you. They are your cheerleader, encouraging and challenging you to become the best writer you can be.

Conclusion: The Benefits of Working with a Professional Book Editor
Writing a book is both exhilarating and challenging. Enlisting the help of a professional book editor can make all the difference.

Your editor will enhance the quality of your writing, instill confidence in your abilities as an author, push you to refine your craft, and encourage you along the way. When you find the right editor, you are investing in your manuscript's success and in your growth as a writer. The result will be a stronger, more polished final product—one that resonates with readers and stands out in a crowded market.

Ultimately, the benefits of partnering with a skilled book editor extend far beyond the editing process. It fosters a sense of community and support throughout your writing journey. And when you find the right editor, you may also find a new friend.