Book Crew: Developmental Editing for Authors

Show Notes

About This Episode of Book Crew
1. Dirk has been nominated for an award, but needs your help to win.
2. Feature Topic: Developmental Editing
Developmental editing, also known as substantive or structural editing, focuses on the "big picture" of a manuscript, addressing issues like plot, character development, pacing, and overall structure, rather than grammar or punctuation.

- Focus: Developmental editing is a crucial stage in the book editing process that focuses on the core elements of a story or manuscript.
- What it addresses:
- Structure: Ensuring the story flows logically and has a clear beginning, middle, and end.
- Plot: Identifying and addressing potential plot holes, inconsistencies, or areas where the plot could be strengthened.
- Character Development: Helping ensure characters are believable, consistent, and well-developed.
- Pacing: Ensuring the story moves at an appropriate speed and maintains reader engagement.
- Tone and Style: Helping the author refine the overall tone and style of the writing to suit the genre and target audience.  
- Benefits of developmental editing:
- Stronger Story: Helps authors create a more compelling and engaging story.
- Improved Structure: Ensures the story is well-organized and easy to follow.
- Enhanced Character Development: Helps authors create more believable and relatable characters.
- Clearer Focus: Helps authors ensure their story has a clear purpose and direction.
- When to consider developmental editing:
- Before copyediting: Developmental editing typically comes before copyediting and proofreading.
- For any type of writing: Novels, nonfiction books, short stories, and other types of writing can benefit from developmental editing.  

Beth Anne Freely
bethannefreely.com
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X: @BAFreely
Instagram: @BAFreely
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Dirk Hooper
www.writeworks.dirkhooper.com