What to Expect in the Developmental Editing Process

There's nothing worse than ambiguity, especially for a service that has a higher price point—like developmental editing. If you've never worked with a developmental editor before, you likely have questions about what you can expect. I'm going to try to answer most, if not all of those questions. Of course, if I don't answer them all, you can always reach out for a no-pressure chat!

1. A lot of developmental editors don't do sample edits. In this regard, it's different than a copyedit. A developmental edit goes into much more detail than a copy edit and to do a proper sample edit requires a lot more labour. I know what you're thinking: how do you know if the editor is right for you? It's an excellent question and an important one. I always recommend meeting with your potential editors. Here are some questions you can ask them:

a. What genres do you read?

b. What genres have you edited?

c. How do you provide feedback?

d. What is your timeline for edits?

You want to make sure you really mesh with your editor, and that "in-person" call can help you get a feel for their personality and if they're the right fit for you and your book.

2. It'll take 4-6 weeks for the full developmental edit. The length of time will depend on how long your book is and your editor's schedule but all of that will be made clear before booking and will be outlined in your contract. [Note: Insist upon a contract. If your editor does not have the infrastructure in place to include a contract, I suggest looking into a different editor.]

3. You'll see in the questions I suggested you ask includes asking how they provide feedback. I've seen some editors create a separate chart that lists page, paragraph, and line number for their queries. Some authors and editors like that; I'm not a fan. My queries and comments are provided in the comments panel (also known as inline comments). Editors communicate differently, as you can imagine; I try to avoid words like "could" and "should". Instead, I like to frame my comments as suggestions. "I suggest you examine . . .", "what if . . .".

4. You'll also receive an Editorial Report. This is a multi-page document that discusses the overall assessment, structural analysis, character development, plot and pacing, style and tone, and recommendations.

5. Finally, some editors (including myself) will make themselves available for a follow-up zoom call. This allows the author to get any clarification needed. It's easy for authors to think that if they don't understand something the editor has said it's their fault. I disagree wholeheartedly. If an author doesn't understand feedback, it's up to the person providing the feedback to make sure it's clear to the recipient.

Things to Note:

1. Your editor should be in contact with you. Your manuscript is your baby! How scary is it to send your baby off into the world only to have radio silence for almost two months. How common the communication is and what that communication looks like would be negotiated at the time of booking and contract signing.

2. Your editor should be your cheerleader. While you want an editor who's going to be straightforward with you, you also don't want them cutting you down. They succeed when you succeed!

3. Your editor should not be making any changes to your document.

4. Different editors will have different payment plans and policies. There is no "right one". Take a look at the Editorial Freelance Association to see what they suggest for price points. Remember, sometimes a price point is too good to be true.

5. Ask for testimonials. I've happily given (with permission) the email address of clients I've worked with so potential clients can reach out and get their input.

6. Editors know we're not always the right pick for someone. Sometimes the editor tells the potential client that and sometimes the potential client tells the editor that. At the end of the day, it's about making sure your book is in the best hands to bring it to its best possible potential.