Developmental Editing for Authors | Book Crew

Beth A. Freely presents her overview of what Developmental Editing for Authors is, how she goes about the process and how to do it. Plus Dirk has a major announcement about being nominated for an award!

VOTE FOR DIRK HERE: https://www.asnlifestylemagazineawards.com/vote-4-13-2025

Show Notes

About This Episode of Book Crew
1. Dirk has been nominated for an award, but needs your help to win.
2. Feature Topic: Developmental Editing
Developmental editing, also known as substantive or structural editing, focuses on the "big picture" of a manuscript, addressing issues like plot, character development, pacing, and overall structure, rather than grammar or punctuation.

- Focus: Developmental editing is a crucial stage in the book editing process that focuses on the core elements of a story or manuscript.
- What it addresses:
- Structure: Ensuring the story flows logically and has a clear beginning, middle, and end.
- Plot: Identifying and addressing potential plot holes, inconsistencies, or areas where the plot could be strengthened.
- Character Development: Helping ensure characters are believable, consistent, and well-developed.
- Pacing: Ensuring the story moves at an appropriate speed and maintains reader engagement.
- Tone and Style: Helping the author refine the overall tone and style of the writing to suit the genre and target audience.
- Benefits of developmental editing:
- Stronger Story: Helps authors create a more compelling and engaging story.
- Improved Structure: Ensures the story is well-organized and easy to follow.
- Enhanced Character Development: Helps authors create more believable and relatable characters.
- Clearer Focus: Helps authors ensure their story has a clear purpose and direction.
- When to consider developmental editing:
- Before copyediting: Developmental editing typically comes before copyediting and proofreading.
- For any type of writing: Novels, nonfiction books, short stories, and other types of writing can benefit from developmental editing.

Beth Anne Freely
bethannefreely.com
themusesfunhouse.com +
X: @BAFreely
Instagram: @BAFreely
https://linktr.ee/BAFreely

Dirk Hooper
www.writeworks.dirkhooper.com
asherlake.net
themusesfunhouse.com
X: @dirkhooperplus
www.facebook.com/dirk.hooper/

Book Crew, hosted by indie authors Beth A. Freely and Dirk Hooper, was crafted to help writers get their book written, edited, published and promoted.
Book Crew features interviews with writers currently in the trenches, deep-dive tutorials, hot topic panels with experts, and copious tips, tricks, and personal insight to help you on your author journey.