Developmental editing

Diane Page

(0)

Starting at

$

55

/hr

About this service

Summary

A must-have edit to ensure your document makes logical sense, covers all key areas and has engaging, organised content. You get my expert eye to assess which areas of your text need help. Your preferences are pivotal to the changes I suggest – you remain in charge of the process.

Process

Step 1: I will usually ask you to send me a 1,000-word (roughly) sample from your document to help me draw up a quote. I will also need more detail about the project: length, subject, technical complexity etc.
Step 2: You send me your full document. Microsoft Word format is best. Then sit back and relax!
Step 3: I read the whole document to understand its themes, direction and purpose. I look for a strong, clear introduction, a solid and logical middle section and a gracefully landed conclusion. I make notes on potentially rearranging or removing anything which could mar the reader’s experience.
Step 4: If there are passages of text that might be stronger in another part of the document, I’ll identify these. I'll recommend more suitable locations, where they can better serve the overall narrative. I look for repetition and other issues. Any gaps in the content will be given thoughtful and creative focus to help you fill them.
Step 5: You receive a full summary report of recommendations.
Step 6: We discuss the summary report and next steps. If you want me to make any or all of the suggestions highlighted, I'll do that. I’ll rework the surrounding text where needed, to ensure a seamless transplant. Your manuscript will be carefully tailored to its audience throughout.

What's included

  • A structured, logical second draft

    This edit leaves your manuscript with a clear story arc, running order and organised content. Gaps in content and/or logic are filled, duplication removed. Potential problems are flagged, discussed and resolved. This is Big Picture work. We collaborate towards the end product – no nasty surprises. Just delight at a well-tailored document.

  • A summary report

    You receive a full summary report detailing all suggested changes. If you've asked me to, I will have made the changes to your manuscript as agreed.

  • A manuscript showing Track Changes + a clean version

    You'll receive one version of your manuscript showing the various Track Changes, plus another clean version showing all changes accepted. You remain in charge of which changes to agree and which to reject.

Skills and tools

Communications Specialist
Content Editor
Copy Strategist
Microsoft Word
Scrivener
Zoom

Industries

Publishing

Work with me

More services

Writing coach

STARTING AT

$60/hour

hourly rate

Line and copyediting

STARTING AT

$40/hour

hourly rate