Create your best story with developmental editing
Transform your story from good to great with developmental editing—where the heart of your manuscript gets the attention it deserves.
Developmental editing focuses on the big-picture elements of your manuscript. This stage works to enhance the overall structure, content, and clarity of your work by collaborating closely with you to improve key aspects such as plot development, character arcs, pacing, themes, and the overall cohesiveness of the narrative.
My goal as a developmental editor is to help you refine your manuscript by offering detailed feedback that strengthens your story’s foundation and enhances emotional impact. I will work with you to ensure that the plot flows seamlessly, characters are well-developed, and the themes resonate with readers. This process is all about shaping your manuscript into a polished piece that captures your vision and engages your audience.
Key components of developmental editing include:
Structure: Assessing the organization of the manuscript to ensure it effectively engages the reader.
Character Development: Evaluating character motivations, growth, and relatability throughout the story.
Pacing: Ensuring the narrative maintains a rhythm that keeps readers engaged while allowing for moments of reflection.
Theme Exploration: Identifying and enhancing the book’s themes to create a more impactful message.
Please note that no grammatical editing or corrections will be made during this stage. The focus is entirely on improving the larger story elements. My ultimate goal is to help you refine your manuscript and make it as compelling and well-rounded as possible before moving on to the next phase of editing.
What’s Included:
Big-picture feedback on plot structure, pacing, and overall narrative flow.
Character development analysis including character arcs, motivations, and relationships.
Feedback on world-building and setting, ensuring consistency and immersion.
Identification of plot holes or inconsistencies that may impact the story’s cohesion.
Suggestions for improving the emotional impact and depth of the story.
In-depth feedback on key story elements like themes, tone, and overall effectiveness.
One-on-one brainstorming support for problem areas or challenges in the manuscript.
What’s Not Included:
Grammar, punctuation, or spelling corrections (these are not addressed in developmental editing).
Line editing or copyediting (no focus on sentence structure or minor wording adjustments).
Formatting or design work (this is not part of the developmental editing process).
Rewrites or extensive content changes (developmental editing offers suggestions, not full rewrites).
What to know before booking me:
I work exclusively with Microsoft Word for all editing services. All changes, suggestions, and revisions are made using the Track Changes feature, allowing you to easily review and approve edits. Please ensure your manuscript is submitted in Word format to take advantage of this editing process.
Turnaround times are estimates and may vary based on the length and complexity of the manuscript. Please reach out for a personalized time frame prior to booking your service.
Revisions are not included unless otherwise specified in the service package. If you require additional edits beyond the agreed scope, they will be billed separately at the current hourly rate.
All manuscripts and materials shared with me will be kept strictly confidential. I respect your privacy and will never share your work with third parties without your consent.
Payment is required in full before services or edits are returned, unless otherwise agreed upon. Payment plans may be available for certain services. Please contact me for more details.