What is developmental editing?

Developmental editing is where the editor takes a big picture look at your manuscript and makes suggestions to strengthen various elements, such as characterizations, pacing, plotting, setting, structure, etc. This option is best for earlier drafts of a manuscript, or when the writer is “stuck” in their draft.

When I provide a developmental edit, I will make notes in the margins of the manuscript, write a detailed editorial letter highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the work, along with suggested edits, and I am available for a phone call to follow up with any questions.

What is the difference between a developmental edit and a manuscript critique?

For my services, I define a manuscript critique as a “beta-read” or a secondary read of a manuscript that has already gone through developmental editing. Less detailed (and cheaper!) than a full developmental edit, I still look at the big picture of your manuscript, make notes in the margins, and highlight any overall weaknesses in plotting, characterization, structure, etc., but this option does not come with a detailed editorial letter.

This option is ideal for those who have already completed a developmental edit with myself or another editor, or for a writer who feels their manuscript is “close” but wants a second pair of eyes before preparing for submission.

What’s the difference between line editing, copy-editing, and proofreading?

Line editing is where the editor examines the work at the sentence level to edit for voice, rhythm, detail, syntax structure, etc. It is the nitty gritty of editing (and one of my absolute favorite parts!) Line editing is like taking a fine brush and adding the smallest of details to a masterpiece.

Copyediting is where the editor still edits at the sentence-level but is editing specifically toward technical grammar and spelling. It’s the nuts and bolts of editing—putting apostrophes in the right place, removing comma splices, correcting the spelling, and checking for continuity errors overall.

Proofreading is a cold, hard edit for grammar, spelling, and any remaining typos. It’s the final check of the manuscript before being sent out into the world.

How do I know what kind of editing I need?

Developmental editing is recommended for those who have taken their manuscript through several drafts and are struggling with a question or story problem they have been unable to solve on their own. Developmental editing is also recommended for those who would like to get a second opinion of the “big stuff” before moving forward into later stages of editing, such as line edits.

A manuscript critique is recommended for those who have already gone through developmental edits on their own or with an editor, and now need a secondary read to determine if problems from an earlier draft have been solved. Manuscript critique is also recommended for those who are simply looking for a “gut check” of their manuscript before moving forward with submission.

Line editing is recommended for those who have completed developmental editing, are firm in their plot, characters, setting, and structure, and would like to improve their work at the sentence level. Line editing is not recommended for first or even second drafts.

Copyediting is recommended for those who need help with proper grammar, formatting, spelling, and sentence structure. I also look at story continuity when I complete any copy or line edits.

Proofreading is recommended for those who need a quick second pair of eyes for spelling, grammar, and formatting.

How do I know if I need an editor?

There are many things to consider when deciding whether or not to hire an editor. Have you taken your manuscript “as far as you can go” on your own and now you’re stuck? Would it set your mind at ease to have a professional look before going on submission? Have you received differing feedback from your reading partners and aren’t sure how to proceed?

There are several reasons to hire an editor, but one big reason not to hire an editor: Do not hire an editor with the expectation that editing will result in publication. Editing is meant to make your work stronger, to push you to become a better writer, and to help you put your best foot forward on your publication journey. But it will not guarantee publication. (Also, I do not recommend hiring an editor to read your first drafts. There are better ways to spend your money.)

You’re a writer—have YOU ever hired an editor?

I have! Most notably, I hired an editor to help with my first novel.

I had worked on the book for several years, had queried it and gotten several close-call rejections on full manuscripts, plus one revise and resubmit from an agent that ended in a pass. I was so stuck. After letting the book sit for months, I decided I wasn’t ready to let it go, pulled it out of the drawer, and hired an editor.

The editor was able to look at my manuscript in a clear-headed manner, without all the baggage I had when I looked at it. She pinpointed plot holes I missed and made suggestions for story solutions I was too close to the manuscript to see for myself. I edited with her suggestions in mind, re-queried the book, and had several offers of representation in less than a month.

I firmly believe in hiring the right editor at the right time. I sure did.

How do I know if you’re the right editor for me?

Finding the right editor is all about fit. Simply put, we have to click. We may have a grand ol’ time hanging as friends, but that doesn’t make me any better at editing your experimental, cowboys-in-space opera novel.

That’s why I always ask potential clients to fill out this form so I can learn more about you and your work and determine whether or not we will fit. I do not take on clients unless I know 1) the client is ready for the editing process and 2) has a project I know I can edit with confidence.

If I’m not the right editor for you, I have no problem recommending another editor who may be better suited for your work.

What are your rates?

My rates are:

.025/word for developmental editing
.015/word for manuscript critique
.04/word for line editing
.03/word for copyediting
.015/word for proofreading

*Minimum of $250 per project

I’m a member of the Editorial Freelancers Association. Compare my rates to the EFA.

What if I’m on a budget?

I’m open to negotiation. Let’s talk.

How do we get started?

Glad you asked. Fill out this form and I’ll be in touch.