Developmental Editing

Developmental editing is a creative collaboration through the messy middle of the writing process. Some writers get stuck here for years, but it’s our favorite part of the journey.

A developmental editor can identify and help solve problems with clarity, accuracy, readability, and flow. They can improve structure by reorganizing paragraphs, sections, and chapters. They can give authors perspective on their draft and help them strengthen their writing skills at the grammatical, stylistic, strategic, or storytelling levels.

This process looks different for every author. One writer might need an accountability partner to stay motivated and productive. Another writer might want frequent feedback on new material and revisions. Still another might need help outlining a nonfiction manuscript or developing a novel’s story arc.

When you reach out to us for an initial consultation, we will talk about your goals and your project’s history to determine which developmental editing approach might work best for you. We’ll figure out together whether an hourly, project, or per-word rate makes the most sense for your particular process.

If you’re looking for a dedicated partner as you write and revise your work in progress, developmental editing is the way to go.

Developmental editing

Developmental Editing
$50/hour

  • Initial consultation to discuss your writing goals and process
  • Guidance through the development of a concept or outline
  • Collaboration on improvement of a draft
  • Accountability and motivation
  • Feedback on new material and revisions
  • Consultation on publishing paths

Developmental editing

Read more about developmental editing:

Jane Friedman: Before You Hire a Developmental Editor: What You Need to Know

MasterClass: Editing Essentials: What Is Developmental Editing?