The Job Of A Developmental Editor

By Sharon Edwards


Whether writing creatively, technically or creating non-fiction books and materials, these items often need to be reviewed prior to publication. In many cases, these individuals work as business or technical editors. Whereas, an independent author working on a creative or non-fiction project often needs a Developmental Editor.

Most often, those working in this position work on full length manuscripts. Although, there are others who may accompany a writer from the onset to completion of a project. For, while checking for correct grammar and spelling errors, these individuals also assure that material is easy to read and enjoyable with the information being paced appropriately.

Most of these individuals work on a freelance basis. In many cases, these individuals work on long manuscripts over a period of time. While, there are others who work along side writers to actively edit material during the creation and development of a publication. As pay rates and salaries can vary, it is important to check for salary ranges associated with this type work in the area in which one resides before accepting a job as a contract, permanent or freelance editor.

In some cases, authors may ask an editor to review a complete manuscript, or sections of one. While most often checking for proper grammar, spelling and pacing of information, some may ask an editor for ideas related to content. When asked, it is important to be as honest and open as possible about any changes on believes would enhance the book or project.

It is also important that those working in this area enjoy reading. For, an editor is often required to read and reread material a number of times. For, edits made during the writing process can often change the meaning of content. As such, it is often advised that a book or project is reviewed from the beginning following each editing or revision cycle.

While this work can often become monotonous and mundane, it is important to find ways to keep the flow interesting while reading and rereading the material. Most often, individuals can often research various aspects of a project during the process in order to avoid these issues. Whereas, it is also important to take breaks as needed so as to not miss any important errors which could easily be overlooked.

In the final phase of the project, editors are often the last eyes to see the publication before it goes to a publisher. As such, most writers count on these individuals to catch any and all mistakes prior to this point. For, once a manuscript is published, it can often be far more expensive to fix errors.

Upon submitting the final version to a publisher, most will return the project to the editor and writer for one last final review. During this phase, it is important to check all aspects of the book or other project including the title of contents, content, covers, bibliographies and any other information before returning the item back to the publisher. For, once a book is bound, or a project finalized, it can often be far more costly to edit and republish.




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