Evaluating your novel draft: The developmental edit

A developmental edit is a type of editing that focuses on the big-picture elements of a novel manuscript such as its structure, plot, character development, and theme. Developmental editors help authors identify and fix problems with manuscripts such as weak plot points, underdeveloped characters, or an unclear story arc. They may also offer suggestions for improving the manuscript’s overall readability and impact.

Developmental editing is typically done before a manuscript is submitted to an agent or publisher. However, I like to get at least one developmental edit during the evaluation phase so I can start fixing my issues early in the writing process. The developmental edit can be a valuable service for authors who want to make sure their manuscripts are as strong as possible either way.

Here are some of the elements that a developmental editor might review in a novel manuscript:

• Structure: Is the plot well-paced and engaging? Do the characters’ arcs make sense? Is the ending satisfying?
• Plot: Are there any plot holes or inconsistencies? Are the stakes clear?
• Character development: Are the characters well-developed and believable? Do they have clear motivations?
• Theme: Is the theme clear and consistent? Does it resonate with the reader?
• Readability: Is the manuscript easy to read and understand?

If you’re considering obtaining a developmental edit for your novel manuscript, it’s important to find an editor who is experienced in working with fiction. You should also be prepared to make some changes to your manuscript based on the editor’s feedback.

Tips for finding a developmental editor

• Ask for recommendations from other authors.
• Look for editors who have experience working with the type of fiction you write.
• Read online reviews of various editors.
• Interview potential editors to make sure they’re a good fit for you and your manuscript.

A developmental edit can be a valuable investment in your novel manuscript. It can help you identify and fix problems with your story, and it can give you the feedback you need to achieve your creative vision with your novel. However, because it can be very expensive to hire someone to do this type of work for you, it often helps to join or even build your own writing community complete with other writers who you trust to provide you with the same type of feedback you might receive from a professional developmental editor. Then you can always offer to trade manuscripts and perform that work for one another for “free.”

Contact me today to inquire about hiring me to provide a developmental edit of your novel draft!

Now available in print and on Kindle!

Now that Jack has been forced to reflect on everything he has to lose, he resolves to do better. He’s determined to spend more time at home with his family and repair the relationships that have suffered over the years while he’s been so focused on work. But as Callie’s behavior becomes increasingly bizarre, Jack realizes he has a lot more room to improve than he realized – and it might be too late to save his daughter after all.

For fans of We Need to Talk About Kevin, The Push, and Baby Teeth.