Developmental editing.
Developmental editing takes a deep dive into your manuscript, focusing on its overall structure and content. It’s different from copyediting or proofreading, which mainly tackle grammar, syntax, typographical errors at the sentence and paragraph level. When I conduct a developmental edit, I zoom out to view the big picture, looking at things that apply to the entire book: its structure, flow, coherence, and how effectively your message comes across.
What is developmental editing?
My process is more extensive than that of some other developmental editors. It’s wholly focused on how the reader will experience the book from the beginning of the purchase process to closing the book after the last page.
I apply several rigorous rounds of editing, meaning I read through your manuscript numerous times, focusing on different aspects each round.
I document my findings as notes within the manuscript (using the Microsoft Word commenting feature) and off the page in a separate document. Once it's finished, you’ll have a detailed report, your manuscript with my edits and margin comments, and an actionable editing inventory. We’ll also schedule an online meeting to discuss my feedback and create a plan for moving forward.
By the end of the process, you’ll be crystal clear on what needs to be done to make your book exceptional.
It all begins with an idea.
What I evaluate.
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In regards to your topic, your book should meet the reader where they’re at and take them where they want to go. I ensure your book is not just a collection of stories and knowledge but a journey. Your reader will start in one place in terms of mindset, skill, and knowledge. Your book will guide them to another place by teaching them how to make the change they want, whether that means mastering a topic or improving health habits, relationships, mind, business, art, or dreams (i.e., the Promise of your book).
I read your book sitting in the shoes of the reader, evaluating the overall experience and noting when and how I move through each step of the Reader Journey.
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I also analyze the progression of the reader’s thought process: is your book structured according to the natural way your reader would process your lessons? What information does your reader need first, next, and then next to get to where you want them to be? What are your teaching points, and are they organized in a way that makes sense in terms of the Reader Journey?
I evaluate the progression of the reader’s thought process at both the book and chapter level.
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I analyze how well new concepts, processes, and systems are explained, keeping an eye out for undefined terms and confusing industry jargon. As the expert, you know your content inside and out; I do not, and neither does the reader. So, this is an ideal opportunity to ensure that your teaching points and processes are clear and easy to follow.
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I ensure that the tone and voice you set for your book are consistent across the manuscript. For example, an author may say, “My book must always feel warm and supportive.” Or they may say, “My book must always be informative yet accessible.” Whatever qualities you set for your book, I ensure they stay consistent throughout the manuscript.
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I analyze verbiage for sensitivity. I know you want your book to have a robust representation of all groups, so I look for areas of unintentional cultural appropriation and words that might be hurtful or off-putting to some people. I know that you don’t purposely intend to be exclusive or offend your reader, but language — and our subconscious biases — are powerful. So this round ensures that every reader feels welcome in your book.
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Depending on the genre, I evaluate the stories and anecdotes, ensuring they’re relevant, effective, and impactful. I also flag content that needs sources and citations.