Developmental editing is a type of editing that focuses on the overall structure and organization of a manuscript, as well as the author's theme and argument. Developmental editors work with authors to help them shape and improve their book projects.
Developmental editing can be helpful for authors who have a finished manuscript but are struggling with how to make it better. A developmental editor can offer suggestions on how to reorganize the book, how to clarify the author's argument, and how to make the book more accessible to the intended audience.
While copy editing and proofreading focus on the details of the manuscript, such as grammar and spelling, developmental editing looks at the big picture. This type of editing is often the most important and helpful step in the publishing process.
