 Photo by Buddha Elemental 3D on Unsplash Editing is a really broad term. Many authors write their books because they have a story inside burning to get out. But they don’t always understand what happens next. The editing journey happens in stages, and those stages can sometimes be confusing. Maybe you’ve felt it. Maybe you’ve asked yourself these questions or similar ones. Questions like: When do I need a developmental editor? Is a copyeditor necessary for everyone? Who needs a proofreader? Do I have to hire a book coach to have a successful book? And with varying definitions of each service, it’s no wonder the prospect of hiring an editor can feel overwhelming. Today, we’re going to determine which level of editing is right for you and your book. Find a comfy chair and let’s get started. Developmental Editing The first stage of editing is developmental editing. This will cover the big picture issues: character arcs, plot points, setting, timeline, etc. These are the issues that build the story into something tangible and cohesive. However, at this initial stage of editing, there are actually a few options. 1. Book Coaching A book coach is helpful when you are struggling to finish your book.
Any of these situations would warrant using a book coach. A book coach can help you overcome the obstacles that prevent you from getting that book written. They will cheer you on, hold you accountable, or serve as a sounding board as you talk through ideas. 2. Manuscript Evaluation Manuscript evaluations are great for authors who have written and published a book or two. They understand the process and know what to look for when building the foundation of a story. They have performed extensive self-edits and possibly even used alpha readers to uncover missing story components.
3. Developmental Edit The third option is a developmental edit. A developmental edit is more thorough than a manuscript evaluation. This is great for new authors or authors who know that world-building, character arcs, agency, conflict, tension, or point-of-view are not their strength. A developmental edit is going to provide you with examples, resources, and an in-depth evaluation of the foundational elements of your book. Developmental editors will talk with you before the edit takes place to understand your vision for the story. They will offer examples to improve the components of the story that need to be strengthened, and they will celebrate the strong points. They will guide you as you seek to understand how to apply the edits, and often, provide you with a phone call after the edit is finished to brainstorm additional ideas and talk through questions you may have. If you are a new author or know that structural development is a challenge for you, a developmental edit may be the right choice for you. Line Editing and Copyediting The next stage of editing looks at the structure of the manuscript at a line level. Many editors combine line editing and copyediting, but some separate the two. This is something you will want to discuss with your potential editor. Line editing or heavy copyediting will evaluate the effectiveness of each sentence, ensuring the message is clear and grammatically accurate. They will address dangling modifiers, purple prose, disorganized passages, and more. They will smooth the text, ensuring accuracy and consistency are achieved. Copyeditors will complete a style sheet for your book outlining preferences in word choice, capitalization, and sentence structure to align with your voice and vision. They will verify the accuracy of Scriptures or verify that the timeline of your fantasy novel makes sense. They will dig into the details to ensure each component of your book has been thoroughly evaluated. If you have a completed manuscript, have performed thorough self-edits, used alpha readers or a developmental editor, and are confident your manuscript is free of structural errors, you may be ready for a copyeditor. Proofreading The final stage of editing is proofreading. Many authors seek a proofreader before and after formatting to ensure their end product is as error-free as possible. If you have obtained a copyedit and implemented your editor's recommendations, if you have a style sheet completed for your manuscript, and if you have utilized beta readers, you will likely be ready for a proofreader. Technically, proofreading can only happen on the proof of a book (the formatted pages), but the term is often used interchangeably for editing that takes place after copyediting or to describe a very light copyedit. Again, it is helpful to clarify with your editor exactly what type of service you are looking for. Conclusion: Understanding Your Editing Needs Simplified It is important to familiarize yourself with the general expectations of each stage of editing. This will help you communicate your desires effectively with your potential editor. However, finding the right editor means they will be transparent and honest about what your manuscript really needs. They will work with you to enhance your manuscript or direct you to another editor if they don’t provide the necessary service. It is common for authors to approach editors thinking they are ready for a copyedit when what they need is a developmental edit. A good editor will communicate what you actually need to ensure the manuscript gets the right focus and that you are making the best use of your time and money. Don’t miss the article Secrets to Finding the Perfect Book Editor. It will help you choose the editor that is right for you and arm you with great questions to ask of your editor as you take the next steps into the wonderful world of editing. 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. 
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