Definition
Developmental editing addresses story-level issues: structure, pacing, character arcs, theme, and market fit. The editor gives substantive feedback before line-level work begins.
Example
A developmental editor notes that the midpoint reversal is missing and suggests merging two POV characters.
Related terms
Common mistakes
- Hiring a copy editor when the plot still has major holes.
- Expecting developmental edits to rewrite the book for you without author decisions.