In the publishing industry, there are numerous types of pre-book work that help turn a manuscript into a novel. While it’s possible to do all the legwork yourself (as a writer), that doesn’t mean it’s a good idea. For example, it’s typically not a good idea to edit your own work. This is especially true regarding developmental editing, which focuses on the core of a story.
Other forms of editing, such as copyediting, are meant to whip your writing in to shape. A copy editor is going to make sure grammar, syntax, punctuation, spelling, etc., are fit for publication. Developmental editing, on the other hand, takes in “the big picture,” meaning the overall plot, character development, setting and more.
Developmental editing should always come first
Since the primary goal of developmental editing is to help a manuscript achieve its full content potential, it should always occur before copyediting takes place. A developmental editor is checking to see whether a writer has enabled the characters of a story to fully develop. During this phase of editing, things like story arc, plot consistency, flow and cohesiveness are also addressed.
Use these tips to prepare for an edit
Developmental editing, by nature, produces critique. As a writer, you must be open to constructive criticism, intended to make your story better. Before undergoing a developmental edit, try these tips:
- Ask trusted friends or family members to read your first draft to hear their feedback.
- Review your story to check for holes, irregular pacing, weak character development, missing literary components (such as a falling action after the climax or a resolution.
- If writing historical fiction, confirm that any dates, descriptions, references to real-life events, etc., are accurate.
- Take a break from your manuscript for several days to a week, then give it a thorough, final read-through.
Remember that developmental editing is beneficial for you, the author. It helps you bring out the best in your story. It’s also intense and time-consuming, after which you might be handed a laundry list of revisions (that are suggestions and recommendations), which you’d be wise to consider if you hope to one-day publish your novel.
