Developmental Edit

This type of editing takes a look at the big picture and is done prior to line editing and copyediting. It is similar to a manuscript evaluation but it goes deeper and involves in-text edits and comments. You will also receive an extensive revision letter.

Fiction

• Check for continuity and consistency in your plot, character development, point of view, dialogue, pacing, dialogue differentiations, backstory, and world-building

• Check that your central conflict is believable 

• Check that your manuscript works for your intended audience

• Check that your narrative is effective and logical

• Check that your use of backstory is sufficient without amounting to info-dumping

• Do basic fact-checking (upon request)

• Flag areas that take readers out of your story

• Flag confusing language

• Flag problems with showing vs telling

• Look for lost threads

• Provide feedback on what is working well

• Suggest possible solutions for necessary revisions

Nonfiction

• Check for continuity and consistency of ideas/arguments

• Check that your manuscript works for your intended audience

• Check that your purpose is effective and logical

• Do basic fact-checking (upon request)

• Flag areas that take readers out of your subject matter

• Flag questionable assertions

• Flag quotes lacking attribution

• Flag unnecessary repetition and confusing language

• Look for lost threads

• Suggest possible solutions for necessary revisions