What is Developmental Editing? Going Beyond the Surface

Every great book undergoes deep revision before it reaches readers. An author doesn’t just have an idea and flawlessly transcribes it to paper. The story needs to be shaped, refined, and restructured to bring out its full potential. Enter, and all hail, developmental editing. 

As the first stage of the editing process, developmental editing looks at the big picture. This means structure, themes, pacing, and characters. Kind of sounds like you’re sending the manuscript to the gallows, doesn’t it? After all, these are a story’s foundational elements. 

Come with us. Let’s see how developmental editing isn’t a noose but Kernmantle.

Table of Contents

    What is Developmental Editing?

    Editors and resources also refer to it as structural or substantive editing. Unlike other types of editing that concentrate on grammar, punctuation, or stylistic nuances, developmental editing looks at a story’s core components to ensure they mesh well and create a convincing, holistic narrative.

    These core components are:

      • Plot: The book’s sequence of events must be coherent and engaging. No unresolved threads or cop-outs here. 
      • Pacing: The writing’s rhythm must keep readers invested. Authors can’t breeze through the climax, but go on a chapter-length tangent about the history of potatoes (except when hobbits are involved).
      • Character development: Characters must be multidimensional with clear motivations and growth. 
      • Theme: The author must weave central ideas consistently throughout the narrative.
      • Structure: While the story doesn’t have to be linear, its structure must be logical. Foreshadowing, flashbacks, author/narrator interruptions, and POV switches must occur strategically.

    What Does a Developmental Editor Do?

    An editor must uplift a manuscript and not belittle it. So, visions of red ink tidal waves and manuscript confetti have no place here. Instead, a developmental editor analyses a manuscript to identify areas for improvement and areas of brilliance to build on. Let’s look at what and how developmental editors do what they do in more detail.

    Give It Structure

    Developmental editors start by identifying structural weaknesses that can hinder the reader’s experience. Common issues include:

      • Abrupt transitions: Sudden shifts between scenes or chapters can confuse readers.
      • Missing connections between key events: Gaps in the narrative that leave important actions or decisions unexplained.
      • Uneven pacing: A beginning that drags, a rushed middle, or an ending that feels unearned.

    Let’s look at a mystery novel as an example. The protagonist uncovers condemning evidence midway through the story, but the narrative doesn’t build the suspense properly. Readers completely miss the significance of the event, so the big Scooby-Doo villain reveal falls flat. 

    A developmental editor might suggest introducing foreshadowing elements earlier in the plot to create a smoother and more believable lead-up. The result is better story coherence and engaged readers.

    Spot the Plot Holes

    Think of plot holes as potholes. They deprive you of an easy ride and you don’t always see them in time to swerve. A developmental editor is your proverbial road maintenance crew. 

    They look for gaps in logic, unanswered questions, and contradictions that could disrupt the reader’s immersion. These could take the form of:

      • Inconsistent character decisions: Characters act in ways that don’t align with their established motivations or personalities.
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      • Unresolved subplots: Secondary storylines that are introduced but not concluded, leaving readers with lingering questions.
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      • Missing explanations for key events: Significant occurrences that lack sufficient background or rationale, causing confusion.

    For example, there’s a protagonist with a deep-seated fear of water due to a past trauma. If, without any development or explanation, this character suddenly dives into a raging river to save someone, it would contradict their established fear. 

    A developmental editor would spot this inconsistency and suggest adding scenes that depict the character confronting and gradually overcoming their fear, making the heroic act believable and consistent with their development.

    Make Sure Characters Arc

    Developmental editors consider whether characters are realistic and exhibit depth. This is especially relevant if a story is character-driven. Readers must connect with characters on an emotional level. Once they do, they’ll follow the character anywhere – into Mordor, down the rabbit hole, or even just to buy bread and milk.

    Enter the character arc: the transformation a character undergoes in response to the story’s events. Good arcs depict characters evolving, growing, or changing, which adds depth to the narrative and keeps readers invested. 

    Think of the ultimate enemies-to-lovers arc between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr Darcy. Both have preconceived notions of love and what is proper in society. Both have their foundations rattled and grow as a result: Mr Darcy gets over his snotty ways and Lizzie can admit she’s wrong. Or, as Sheldon so eloquently puts it:

    Introduce (or Dissolve) Tension

    Who doesn’t love a story where you can cut the tension with a knife? Developmental editors scrutinise manuscripts for sections that may lag or feel rushed. It’s about finding the balance. Too much foreplay gets boring. But too many jump scares get exhausting and less effective with each scare.  

    For example, there’s a tense standoff between two rival factions. The air is thick with the anticipation of violence. Then, the two faction leaders abruptly resolve the conflict by simply talking things out, shaking hands, and walking away. It deflates everything and the readers feel cheated. 

    A developmental editor can point out this abrupt resolution and suggest adding scenes that escalate the conflict and explore the characters’ motivations. Perhaps the author can introduce a crucial piece of information or a change in circumstance that makes the eventual peaceful resolution feel satisfying, rather than sudden and unconvincing.

    Strengthen Themes

    The holy golden thread. The glue that holds your plot and characters together. Because what’s a book without a theme or message? It’s why characters suffer and conquer. It’s why the story ends up happy, bittersweet, or tragic.  

    Consider a novel centred on redemption. If the protagonist’s journey lacks moments of self-reflection or opportunities for atonement, the theme may not resonate as intended.

    But if the author incorporates scenes where the character confronts past mistakes, it reinforces the redemption arc and ensures the theme remains prominent. As a bonus, another character may choose a different path, perhaps rejecting their redemption, and so contrast with the protagonist.

    All of these technical things aside, editing doesn’t happen in isolation. Developmental editing is a collaborative endeavour between the author and the editor. They work together to elevate the manuscript and ensure it resonates with its intended audience.

    How Does the Developmental Editing Process Work?

    The developmental editing process is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Each manuscript has its strengths and challenges, and an editor should tailor their approach accordingly. Some projects require significant structural changes, while others may need refinement in pacing or character development.

    Regardless, we can break the developmental editing process down into these steps:

    Step 1: Manuscript Evaluation

    We kick off with a comprehensive manuscript evaluation. The editor immerses themselves in the entire work to grasp its overarching strengths, weaknesses, and potential. This high-level review focuses on the big-picture elements like:

      • Narrative arc: Is there a captivating and coherent storyline that engages the reader from start to finish?
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      • Character development: Are the characters well-rounded and relatable? Do they exhibit growth throughout the narrative?
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      • Pacing: Does the story maintain a rhythm that holds the readers’ attention? Do any sections feel slow or rushed?
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      • Structural integrity: Are there noticeable plot holes, inconsistencies, or abrupt transitions that disrupt the story’s flow?

    Addressing these elements during the manuscript evaluation lays the groundwork for targeted revisions. The story’s foundation must be solid before moving on to more detailed editing stages.

    Step 2: In-Depth Analysis

    Big-picture elements done, the editor carefully examines these narrative aspects in more detail:

      • Plot structure: Do events unfold naturally? Are there any inconsistencies or gaps that might disrupt the story’s flow?
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      • Character arcs: Do characters have any weaknesses in their portrayal or motivations that don’t align with their actions? 
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      • Pacing and tension: Do any lengthy expositions need trimming? Do some interactions require more padding or suspense? 
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      • Scene effectiveness: Does every scene contribute to the story? Does it advance the plot, deepen character relationships, or reinforce themes?

    During this analysis, the editor can provide chapter-by-chapter notes or embed detailed comments directly in the manuscript. This approach offers targeted feedback, guiding the author through specific areas that require attention and facilitating a more structured revision process.

    Step 3: Editorial Letter and Manuscript Comments

    After evaluation and analysis, the editor compiles their observations into a comprehensive editorial letter, typically ranging from 2 to 10 pages. This document is a roadmap for the author. It highlights the manuscript’s strengths and pinpoints areas that could use improvement. For example, the editor might commend the author on their powerful protagonist while suggesting a more gradual revelation of backstory to maintain suspense.

    • BLE manuscript assessment template

    Step 4: Writer’s Revisions

    Now, edited manuscript and editorial letter in hand, the author starts revising. Remember: developmental editing is a collaborative process. Authors shouldn’t accept every suggestion without question. Instead, they should critically assess the editing feedback and determine which recommendations align with their creative vision. 

    Revisions can vary in complexity. Some adjustments may be straightforward, such as refining dialogue to better capture a character’s voice or clarifying a plot point to eliminate confusion. Other revisions might require more extensive work, like restructuring entire chapters, reimagining character arcs, or even rewriting significant portions of the manuscript to improve pacing or cohesion. 

    Step 5: Follow-Up Review

    A follow-up review from a developmental editor can be invaluable. The editor assesses the author’s changes and provides additional guidance to ensure the manuscript’s continued improvement. Depending on the project’s needs, this follow-up can range from a comprehensive second round of developmental editing to a more focused review of key revisions.

    It’s important not to get discouraged here. Each cycle of feedback and revision brings the manuscript closer to its full potential.

    It’s important not to get discouraged here. Each cycle of feedback and revision brings the manuscript closer to its full potential.

    Why Developmental Editing is Worth It

    Developmental editing has transformative power. It takes a story from decent to unforgettable by refining its core elements. A great developmental editor spots the cracks (thin storylines, flat characters, uneven pacing) and helps authors turn them into strengths.

    For fiction, this means shaping a compelling structure, breathing life into characters, and ensuring the story flows smoothly. In nonfiction, it’s about sharpening clarity, strengthening arguments, and organising ideas in a way that keeps readers engaged. 

    And throughout the process, the editor works hand in hand with the author, enhancing the manuscript while preserving its heart and voice.

    How to Find the Right Developmental Editor

    Working with the right editor can make or break a manuscript. Begin your search by consulting professional editing associations like the Professional Editors Guild and the Editorial Freelancers Association.

    Platforms like Reedsy and Upwork also offer access to experienced freelancers with verified credentials. Don’t forget to reach out to your writing community for referrals. Trusted recommendations from those who have worked with an editor firsthand go a long way.

    Once you’ve found editors that look promising, weigh up these qualities:

    Experience in Your Genre

    An editor familiar with your genre will understand its conventions and audience expectations. They can identify genre-specific pitfalls and ensure the story aligns with industry standards.

    Strong Communication and Feedback Skills

    Effective editors provide clear, constructive, and actionable feedback. Look for someone who expresses their suggestions directly and constructively. Writers should feel encouraged rather than overwhelmed.

    Balance Between Critique and Encouragement

    A good developmental editor should be honest about weaknesses while also recognising the manuscript’s strengths. This balance makes the feedback and the revision process more productive.

    Transparent Pricing and Process Expectations

    Ensure the editor offers clear information about their fees and workflow. A professional editor should be upfront about their rates, turnaround times, and what their services include so there are no surprises later.

    Other actions you can take include requesting a sample edit to gauge the editor’s approach and style. Review testimonials or references to get insight into their track record and client satisfaction. Verifying the editor’s experience, especially with similar manuscripts, ensures they possess the necessary expertise to enhance your work.

    Cost and Timeline Considerations

    You don’t get something for nothing, right? Authors expect professional editing services and that comes with a price tag and deadline.  

    Prices vary depending on the editor’s experience, the length of the manuscript, and its complexity. Some charge per word, per hour, or per page. The best thing is to provide the developmental editor with a sample of your work (one to three chapters). They can evaluate it and give you a quote that’s as accurate as possible.

    Timelines can also differ. A full developmental edit for a novel usually takes four to eight weeks, but factors like manuscript complexity and an editor’s workload can affect turnaround times.

    It’s always best to discuss expectations upfront with your editor to avoid surprises.

    Developmental Editing: The Step You Can’t Skip

    A great idea is only the beginning. The real magic happens in the editing stage, where a story is shaped, strengthened, and refined into something truly unforgettable. 

    Maybe the plot has exciting moments but lacks cohesion. Maybe the characters feel real in the author’s head but don’t quite leap off the page. Maybe the pacing stumbles, dragging in some places and rushing in others. A developmental editor helps authors see what’s working, what’s missing, and what needs tightening – all while preserving the author’s voice.

    This isn’t about nitpicking grammar or changing the story. With the right editor, your book won’t just be good. It’ll be impossible to put down.

    Blue Leaf Team

    The Blue Leaf Editing team has over 15 years of combined editing, publishing, and book industry experience. We’re passionate about content and storytelling, and sharing our knowledge with others.