Photo by micheile henderson on Unsplash In the last two weeks, we’ve talked about the benefits and misconceptions of using a developmental editor, so this week, I’m going to answer the question on every author’s mind. How much will a developmental edit cost? This article will give you information on where to look for pricing information, the factors that affect the price of your edit, and some sample prices to help you prepare for your own edit. We’ll also look at an example of a successful developmental edit, techniques and strategies used in developmental editing, and methods to help you find the right developmental editor for you. Are you ready for some insider tips? Let’s get started. The Cost of Developmental Editing First, let’s address the question that impacts every author. How much does it cost to obtain a developmental edit? Just like every service industry, developmental editing rates vary based on several factors. In the same way that you would get estimates from more than one source when seeking a repair to your roof, it is wise to obtain estimates (or proposals in the editing world) for developmental editing services from more than one editor. And just like you would expect to pay more for a roofer who has been in the business for twenty-five years with a proven track record, you should expect to pay more for an editor who has extensive experience editing in your genre. That doesn’t mean that the editor with less experience will be inadequate, the same way that the roofer with two years may be perfectly sufficient to implement the repairs you need. But experience does affect the price. Keep that in mind. Additional factors impacting developmental editing expenses include the length of the manuscript, the extent of editing required, and the type of manuscript being edited. Nonfiction manuscripts cost slightly more than fiction manuscripts. A manuscript that hasn’t been through beta readers and thorough self-edits will cost more than one that has. And a manuscript that is 120,000 words will cost more than one that is 30,000 words. Most freelance editors use recognized rate charts to determine the cost of their services. The Editorial Freelancers Association’s rate chart provides helpful information on editing rates per page, per hour, and per word. On average, developmental editing for a fiction manuscript will cost $.03–$.04 per word whereas a nonfiction manuscript will be $.04–$.05 per word. This means that a 120,000-word fiction manuscript will cost between $3600–$4800 for a developmental edit. If it has been through extensive self-edits and multiple beta reads, it will likely fall on the lower end. If it hasn’t been edited or beta-read, it will take the editor longer to provide a thorough edit, therefore you can expect to pay more. A 30,000-word nonfiction manuscript will cost between $1200–$1500 for a developmental edit. Again, if it has been thoroughly self-edited and adapted based on feedback from readers, it will likely cost less than if it hasn’t. Beware of editors who charge significantly less than the industry standard. This is one instance in which you will get what you pay for. Don’t waste your time and money (even a small amount) on editing that will cost you more in the long run. Quality editors will often work with authors to make the services align with their budget as much as possible using payment plans that match the pace of editing performed. Don’t be afraid to share your budget needs with your prospective editors during the inquiry process. Techniques and Strategies Used in Developmental Editing Processes for completing a developmental edit will vary with each editing style. Often you will find notes in the sidebar comment feature of the Word document along with edits written directly into the manuscript itself. Some editors choose to highlight the text with different colors (green for areas of strength, purple for additions to the text, and red for deletions). Others will simply use one color. Still, others will only make minimal changes in the document, indicating areas that are more fully explained in the side notes or editorial letter. Some developmental editors will address all areas that could be further developed within the manuscript, but knowing this method can often be overwhelming to authors, others focus on the structural needs that would provide the most significant improvements for the book. Ask potential editors how they approach developmental edits and be prepared to share with them any questions or challenges you are having with the story as well. During my introductory calls, I ask authors to send me a list of concerns they have with the plot, characterization, or story structure. I also encourage them to send me questions or write their questions in the comments feature of Word. This allows me to adequately address their needs and provide the most comprehensive feedback possible. When looking for a developmental editor, communicate your goals for the editing process and ensure their techniques and strategies help you achieve those desires. Example of a Successful Developmental Editing Project I provided a developmental edit on a middle-grade novel. It was the second in the series. During the edit, I was able to identify some discrepancies in the storyline from the first book to the second book. We were able to correct these issues and ensure that with some restructuring and rewriting, readers would be able to move seamlessly between books without confusion or frustration. In addition, we reworked a fair amount of narrative during the high-conflict fight scenes changing them from passive voice to active voice. These changes tightened the writing, improved the character’s agency, and increased the tension and suspense of each scene. By understanding reader expectations, I was able to help the author align his novel more closely to his audience’s preferences, refining his wonderful ideas and helping him publish a book he was proud of. How to Find and Hire a Developmental Editor Now that you understand the cost and strategies of developmental editing, how do you find a top-quality developmental editor who specializes in your genre? First, it’s important to recognize that every author has different needs, and every editor has a unique style. You don’t want to find just any editor. You want to find one that matches your needs and personality. Finding the right editor for you is possible with a little work. But I promise when you find the right editor for your needs, the editing journey is fun, motivating, and uplifting. One of the best ways to find an editor is through recommendations. Writing groups or fellow authors in social media groups are often happy to make recommendations on editors they have used successfully in the past. You can also find editors through conferences, writing classes, or book events. Directories like the Editorial Freelancers Association, The Christian PEN, or Christian Editor Connection are also great places to locate editors with the specialties you need. Be sure to check out this article for more information on finding the right book editor for you. Once you have the names of editors you are interested in, you want to research their profiles. Look at their websites, social media, portfolios, and testimonials. Understanding their communication style, personality, brand style, and editing experience will help you narrow down your selection. It is also important to hear what other authors who have worked with them are saying. You can do this through their testimonials or even by requesting references. Reach out to the editors whose profiles resonate with you. Ask questions. Share your goals, budget, publishing timeline, and preferences. Evaluate whether their communication style and answers match your needs. Determine which editors match your budget. Then choose the editor that is right for you. Conclusion: Embracing the Power of Transformative Writing Through Developmental Editing Developmental editing should be viewed as an invaluable investment in your writing career. Even the most talented authors benefit from developmental editing. It provides a fresh, professional perspective, elevating and enhancing your story. It helps you grow as an author. It increases your confidence and improves your marketability. It ensures your message is delivered with clarity, and it helps to establish you as a professional. Developmental editing isn’t about changing your voice or redirecting your vision for your book. It’s about helping you uncover the very best version of the story to delight your readers and keep them coming back for more. 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 |