How to do your own developmental editing?

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Developmental editing is a type of editing that helps an author improve the overall structure and content of their book. It is usually done before the book is sent to a copy editor or proofreader. As a self-published author, you may not have the budget to hire a professional editor. However, there are some things you can do to improve your book on your own. In this discussion, we will share tips on how to do your own developmental editing.

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Developmental editing is a bit more involved than regular editing, and usually requires working with the author to help them improve their overall story. In terms of doing it yourself, the best way to approach developmental editing is to first read through the entire story, making note of any issues you see. Once you've done that, go back and work with the author on fixing those issues. This can be a bit of a back-and-forth process, but ultimately it will result in a much better story.

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Doing your own developmental editing can be a challenging task, but it is also a crucial step in making sure that your written work is polished and up to standard. Here are some tips on how to do your own developmental editing:

Get Distance From Your Work: After you have finished writing, it is important to take some time away from your work. This can be a day, a week or even a couple of weeks. The idea is to come back with fresh eyes and to look at your work objectively.
Read Your Work Out Loud: Reading your work out loud can help you pick up on errors that you may have missed while reading silently. It can also help you identify areas where the flow and pacing of your writing need improvement.
Identify The Purpose Of Your Work: Take time to evaluate the main purpose of your work. Ask yourself what the main message or theme is and whether or not you have conveyed it effectively.
Make An Outline: Creating an outline can help you organize your thoughts and ensure that your writing is structured and coherent. It can also help you identify areas where you may need to add more information or fill in gaps.
Check For Consistency: Ensure that your writing is consistent throughout. Pay attention to things like spelling, grammar, punctuation, and tone.
Look for Plot Holes: Check for any plot holes in your work. Make sure that your story is logical and that events make sense.
Ask For Feedback: Ask a friend, family member, or colleague to read your work and provide feedback. They can provide you with valuable insights and suggestions for improvement.
Revise and Rewrite: Make the necessary revisions and rewrites, and remember to keep editing until you are satisfied with the final product.

Remember that doing your own developmental editing can be a daunting task, but with patience and persistence, you can create a written work that reflects your vision and style.