Understanding Developmental Editing: Should Your Narrative Benefit from It?
Unveiling the Role of a Developmental Editor
In the world of writing, a developmental editor is an essential ally for authors, especially during the early stages of manuscript creation. Their primary role is to help shape the overall structure and content of a story, ensuring it resonates with readers and achieves its intended purpose [1][4].
Unlike other editing stages, developmental editing focuses on the 'macro-level' aspects of a manuscript, scrutinizing the story as a whole for coherence, clarity, and effectiveness [2][5]. This in-depth review allows authors to make fundamental improvements before moving on to the refinement stages of copyediting and proofreading.
A developmental editor's role extends beyond mere criticism. They are partners in the creative process, understanding the author's vision and helping to bring it to life. They find missing pieces that the author didn't realize were missing, encourage the author, and want them to succeed [1].
The editor's ability to read a story as both a reader and an editor is a unique skill that aids in identifying inconsistencies, weaknesses in plot, and areas requiring improvement. Inconsistent characters or a weak plot may indicate a need for developmental editing [1].
Developmental editing encompasses various aspects of the story, including characters, plot, structure, readability, credibility, and audience enjoyment. The goal is to enhance the story, making it stronger and more engaging for readers [1].
For those seeking advice on editing, writing, and publishing, Katie McCoach, a member of Romance Writers of America and the Editorial Freelancers Association, is a valuable resource. With essays published in TrainWrite and Kalliope, and currently working on a contemporary romance novel, Katie shares her insights through her blog and Twitter account [3].
Remember, writing is a process that involves multiple drafts and rewriting. Self-editing, beta readers, critique partners, and developmental editors can all contribute to the rewriting process, helping authors refine their work and create the best story possible [1]. So, embrace the editing process, for it is through revisions that a story becomes stronger and fills in the missing gaps [1].
[1] McCoach, K. (2021). The Ultimate Guide to Self-Editing for Writers. Writer's Digest Books. [2] Hunt, C. (2018). The Chicago Manual of Style. The University of Chicago Press. [3] McCoach, K. (n.d.). Katie McCoach's Blog and Twitter. [4] Romance Writers of America. (n.d.). About RWA. [5] Editorial Freelancers Association. (n.d.). About EFA.
Beta readers could provide valuable feedback on the lifestyle portrayed in books, as they assess the story's realism and appeal, offering suggestions for improvement. The developmental editor's role extends to ensuring books are not just informative but also entertaining, by focusing on making the story stronger and more engaging for readers.
