WHAT IS DEVELOPMENTAL EDITING?

Developmental editing is a type of editing where the editor (me) and the author (you) work closely together to develop a manuscript. It includes but isn’t limited to proofreading, copy editing, reviewing, rewriting, and researching. Everything from the overall concept to the content and presentation is commented on.

WHY WOULD I NEED A DEVELOPMENTAL EDITOR?

A good manuscript isn’t the best until it’s critically analysed and scrutinised for errors. If you’re aiming for a good manuscript, you definitely don’t need a developmental editor but if a best manuscript is what you want, you certainly need a developmental editor. A developmental editor can craft your story into a better one from the already crafted story of yours. They comment on any and all small to big mistakes; even the overlooked misconceptions or inconsistency that may have missed the author’s eyes.

WHY DO I NEED YOU AS MY DEVELOPMENTAL EDITOR? 

I’ve been reading and critiquing manuscripts for over two years now. Whether it’s an oxford comma gone wrong or a diminutive plot hole unnoticed, I can pick errors with ease and confidence. I’m a huge enthusiast about using the right literary devices and the right words in the right context; understandably, my editing would include me inspecting your manuscript for malapropism and catachresis among others. Being an eclectic reader, I’ve been exposed to a wide number of genres and have an insight to what works best for a particular sub genre. Whether it’s a literary fiction or a YA contemporary, a fantasy or a non-fiction, I can assure you your manuscript is in the right hands.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM YOUR DEVELOPMENTAL EDITING?

  • A detailed, general feedback on the book. [editorial report]
  • Extensive commenting on each aspect of the book–plot, pace, characterisation, and dialogues. [margin notes]
  • Proofreading for grammatical, punctuation, and spelling errors.
  • Analysing the project for targeted audience or market.
  • Correcting inconsistencies.
  • Providing suggestions and valuable creative input.
  • Ghostwriting parts according to the suggestions provided. [price increases with 20 cents for every word.
  • Research content for non-fiction or fiction. [price increases with $25 per hour of research done]

Using Google Docs commenting feature, I will make suggestions for polishing the manuscript by evaluating each page, paragraph, and scene. For example:

  • Pointing out plot holes, inconsistency, and/or derailing from the idea.
  • Suggesting additional scenes, dialogues, or setting to resonate the pacing and heightening the tension.
  • Analysing character motivations, development, and personality equilibrium.
  • Pinpointing where conflicts can be deepened or calmed down.
  • Examine the themes being explored and rework arrangement for a better result.

In addition to all these, you can expect a consistent communication and constructive honesty.

All these can be delivered in a .doc or .pdf file. Plus, the Google Doc would be shared along with the author to keep them posted on the process and for us to reach points of conclusion together.

WHAT ARE YOU WILLING TO EDIT?

I’m open to editing any and all fictional as well as non-fictional works of any and all demographics [middle grade, young adult, new adult, and adult]. My favourites would be science fiction, fantasy, contemporary, literary fiction, realistic fiction, and mystery/thrillers. Since I’m an eclectic reader, I can read and analyse most of the genres so feel free to contact me for further clarification.

I will not read erotic, religious/spiritual, and poetry. Coarse language and few sex scenes are absolutely fine.

HOW MUCH WILL YOU CHARGE FOR THIS SERVICE?

I work on an hourly basis according to $45/hr with 5 pages edited every hour. The cost will be calculated based on the number of pages of the manuscript. 

For example, if a manuscript has 200 pages, it will take exactly 40 hours to edit the entire story. According to the base price, 40 x $45 = $1800 will be the cost of this order. 

If you’re ordering a ghostwriting service in the package, there would be an additional charge of 20 cents per word I write. And if you’re in the need of some research too, the additional cost would be $25 per hour of researching. I also offer discounts on repeat offers or revisions, which can vary but starts at an impressive 10%.

I’m flexible to authors who work on a strict budget so don’t be afraid to contact me for a custom quote. All payments are non-refundable–except for rare cases–and will be done through Paypal with half the amount being sent before the editing and remaining half once the edits are delivered. Revisions are not included but consistent communication is promised.

WHAT’S YOUR TURNAROUND TIME?

I work on a schedule so slotting is done according to first come, first serve basis.  Also, slots will be awarded only once the first half of the payment is done. The turnaround time depends on the number of pages and the consequent hours to devote to the manuscript. If you’re on a deadline and would like a faster turnaround, you can request so but beware of the additional charges it may cost. Contact me for more details.

CAN I HAVE A SAMPLE EDIT? 

Sure! I’m open to providing a sample edit** using the suggestions feature on Google Docs for up to 500 words. However, this won’t include an editorial letter or researching. 

I WANT YOU AS MY DEVELOPMENTAL EDITOR! WHAT SHOULD I DO?

That’s great! Just fill out this form and wait for me to contact you. If you wish to discuss something first and/or clarify about my service, just send an email. [Please make sure to add ‘Developmental Editing’ in the subject of your mail so your email doesn’t go unnoticed.] 

Looking forward to working with you!

SAMPLES

GHOSTWRITING & RESEARCHING SAMPLE (NON-FICTION)
LINE EDITING WITH REWRITING SAMPLE (NON-FICTION)

TESTIMONIALS

Thank you for a professional, educational and smooth service. It’s been a pleasure to work with you and I will definitely work with you again The feedback has also been awesome.

FIVERR USER
[ON EDITING A NON-FICTION]

**The suggestions provided and errors marked cannot be used or applied on your manuscript while editing if you’ve not availed my service.