![]() Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash 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. Categories
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About MeNycole Sinks is the owner and editor for Positive Proofing. With a background in business and education, she has a passion for helping authors share their stories with the world. ArchivesCategories |