Editor Series: What is a Developmental Editor?

Editor Series: What is a Developmental Editor?

As an self publisher, you REALLY VERY MUCH OUGHT TO have your work professionally edited in order to put out the best product you can. As the creator of the content, you can get your work as polished as possible, and it still takes new eyes to see where things need editing.

Not every reader will not know the difference between a well-edited book and not, but they’ll know the better experience in reading a book with good editing even if they don’t know why.

The Developmental Editor

A developmental editor plays a crucial role in shaping the overall structure and content of a manuscript. Their primary focus is on the big picture elements of the work, such as plot, character development, pacing, and thematic consistency. Developmental editors provide in-depth feedback and guidance to help authors strengthen their narrative, improve story arcs, and enhance the overall coherence and effectiveness of their writing. They may suggest major revisions, including reorganizing chapters, expanding or condensing sections, or even recommending significant changes to the story or argument. Unlike line editors or copy editors who focus on sentence-level improvements, developmental editors are concerned with the work’s foundational elements and overall impact. Their goal is to help authors refine their ideas, clarify their message, and create a more compelling and well-structured piece of writing, whether it’s a novel, non-fiction book, or long-form article.

  • Works on the “big picture” elements of a manuscript Focuses on structure, plot, character development, and overall content
  • Suggests major revisions and reorganization of content
  • Helps refine the author’s ideas and strengthens the narrative
  • Aims to improve the overall coherence and effectiveness of the work

It is important when working with a developmental editor that it is someone you trust to help guide you with the development of your characters and your story. Not every editor can work with every writer. This is a true relationship, and if you don’t jive with your developmental editor, there are going to be some pretty serious issues that can come into play.

This is also where I personally get a little defensive. “But, my way –” kind of thinking. I implicitly trust my developmental editor, but there are still times I have an emotional knee-jerk reaction to something he says, corrects, or suggests. I have to train myself to get “me” out of the way of what is better for the story. I can’t imagine having that same kind of working relationship with someone with whom I did not get along.

Leave a Reply