There are eight types of editing. They are: developmental, line, copy, mechanical, content, technical editing, proofreading and editorial Review.
As time goes by, we will buttress every type of editing. Today, we are talking about Developmental editing.
After getting a manuscript ready, one can get as many editors as much as possible to ensure that it is free from errors. Developmental editing takes a broad review to ensure that there is a clear content to be read.
Just like the meaning suggests, developmental editing is normally termed as structural editing which means that it looks at the overall structure of a manuscript. It also focuses on the organization, and content of a manuscript. It involves suggesting changes to plot, character development, pacing, and tone.
It’s a detailed and in-depth review of the manuscript, that examines the:
1. Big picture: plot, character development, pacing, tone, and consistency.
2. Organization: chapter structure, scene arrangement, and narrative flow.
3. Characterization: character arcs, motivations, dialogue, and consistency.
4. Writing style: tone, voice, point of view, and language use.
5. Themes: clarity, coherence, and effective exploration.
Developmental editing is usually done before line editing and copy editing, as it focuses on the broader aspects of the manuscript. It’s a crucial step in the publishing process, helping authors refine their work and produce a high-quality, engaging, and polished final product.
The primary goal of developmental editing is to help a book have a clear focus and ensure that the elements, such as sentence and style, make sense. Editors also make sure the writing aligns with the expectations of the target audience for the book’s genre.
Some components developmental editors address include:
- Identify areas for improvement and suggest solutions.
- Strengthen the narrative, characters, and plot.
- Enhance the writing style and tone.
- Ensure consistency and accuracy.
- Improve the overall impact and engagement of the work