why is it necessary?

A developmental edit is the first and most intense edit. It focuses on the structure of your story, such as the plot, characterisation, world-building, and more, covering the ‘big picture’ elements. A developmental edit strengthens your manuscript; aspects such as tighter pacing, well-developed world-building and detailed character arcs could improve the readability immensely. Whether you choose to have your writing professionally edited or self-edit, a rigorous developmental edit is crucial when writing a book.

The difference between a developmental edit and a manuscript evaluation is in the depth. A developmental edit involves editing the manuscript document, adding in-line comments to each chapter, as well as an editorial report covering the ‘big picture’ elements. A manuscript evaluation will include an editorial report with the same insight as a developmental edit, however the manuscript itself is not edited.

if you go through with a developmental edit, this is what you will receive from me

An initial 1000 word free sample edit assessing the opening of your manuscript

A fully edited manuscript with in-line comments in each chapter

A 10-20 page editorial report with an in-depth analysis of your storytelling, covering:

– The opening

– Characterisation and motivation

– Plot, structure, pacing and conflict

– Setting and world-building

– Narrative voice, point of view and tense

– General impressions and feedback.

Additionally, after the edit, I offer a meeting to go over your revisions before you move on from developmental edits to the next stage, so we can assess the changes you’ve made based on my feedback and you can receive guidance on your next steps.

Finally, I also have an open line of communication that lasts beyond the completion of my work with you. If at any point leading up to publication or after, you would like some advice or support — even if you just want someone to be excited about your manuscript and progress with you — please do get in touch. I would love to hear from you!

what you can expect while working with me

Once you have filled out the form below, I will get in touch to arrange a call. We will go over where you’re at with your manuscript and what service(s) you need. I offer a free sample edit with a developmental edit so you can see how I work, I can assess your manuscript, and we can decide if we’re a good fit for each other.

Following that, if you decide to continue working together, I’ll go over your entire manuscript and return it, edited, alongside an editorial report. When you have finalised all developmental edits and are ready to move on, get in touch for a final call in which we can discuss the changes you’ve made, how the edit went following my feedback, and I can answer any questions you have. In the meantime, if you have any questions about my feedback, don’t hesitate to reach out!