Note #5: What Exactly Is a Nonfiction Developmental Edit? A Behind-the-Scenes Look

My stab at demystifying the work I love

If they’re lucky, most writers reach a pivotal moment that contains one word: done. They may have taken their manuscript as far as they can take it or have reached a point where they want to call in back up. Whatever the case may be, most folks that reach out to me aren’t quite sure what exactly a developmental edit is. Some have heard it is the suggested first step of the editorial process that later includes copyediting and proofreading, but beyond that, the process is shrouded in mystery.

What Is a Developmental Edit?

If you’ve ever shopped for a house, you know the excitement of walking into one you really like. That’s your finished book. In some ways, a developmental editor can be compared to a housing inspector. They come in with a flashlight and dissect all the guts before you commit to the sale, identifying the age of the wiring, any gaps in the mortar, and whether the slants in the floor are problematic.

A developmental edit is also sometimes called a structural edit, which feels more apt here. In the context of a book, here’s what a nonfiction developmental editor will do:

~ identify the through-line or narrative arc of the book and check that each chapter effectively hooks into it

~ home in on the tone/voice of the book and ensure it is consistent and appropriate for its audience

~ scrutinize all explanations and citations to be sure they make sense and are satisfying for the reader

~ flag areas where transitions are needed, to gel the ideas for the reader.

~ look closely for any repetition or boring sections

~ check all chapter lengths and the rhythm of the overall content to be sure it strikes an effective cadence for the reader.

~ evaluate the book title, chapter titles, and subtitles to be sure they are strong and use consistent structure

~ assess the argumentation to be sure it builds effectively throughout the book and makes a bold, original claim.

~ at request, some developmental editors like me will study comparable texts to help the author differentiate their book.

Common Misconceptions

“Every book needs a dev. edit.”

Some authors absolutely have strong enough manuscripts to pass right through into copyediting. Other authors choose to work with colleagues, friends, or beta readers in order to gauge where they can make their work stronger. But back to the home-inspection metaphor, many want the peace of mind that comes from hiring a professional eye.

“If the book is done, it is ready for a dev. edit.”

Since this type of editing focuses on structural soundness, if a manuscript is seriously lacking in that regard, I advise the author to spend more time refining before committing to a dev. edit. This is where writing coaching can come in, which I also offer.

“A dev. editor will make the edits for the author, so there’s little heavy lifting to be expected on the part of the author.”

Unless I’m being hired as a ghost writer (which I am open to), an author can expect to be deeply engaged in this process. That’s because I’m committed to helping writers create works that reflect who they are and how they think. The good news is, I have many years of experience as a writing teacher, so I know how to prompt writers to generate solutions. And as a writer myself, I’m not shy about suggesting specific phrasing or word choices to make the process more doable.

“It’s only for people who don’t know how to write.”

It’s tempting to think that good writers should have all the answers, but even the most gifted writers have blind spots. This is especially the case if they have been working on a manuscript deeply for months or even years. That said, I also work with writers who want more in-depth instruction on writing, but that is in a coaching capacity.

“It means my book is broken.”

It’s human nature to worry that asking for help indicates a failure of some sort, but seeking out a developmental editor is more about doing your due diligence and ensuring that you put out the best manuscript possible. While I have worked with manuscripts that had major structural issues, I’ve also worked on ones that were very strong—and I still was able to identify pieces that could be improved upon.

When Is It Helpful?

~ When the writer has done several revisions but still feels unsure.

~ When preparing for peer review or submission to a publisher, or when the writer simply needs outside perspective.

~ When the voice or argument feels uneven, or research is in place but the thread tying it together isn’t yet clear.

~ When strong rejections suggest the idea is solid, but the execution isn’t connecting.

What the Basic Process Can Look Like

~ A full read-through to understand the manuscript’s goals, argument, and structure.

~ In-text notes on structure, pacing, transitions, and gaps.

~ Questions that clarify and sharpen thinking.

~ Color-coded outlines or chapter maps to help the writer track coherence and coverage.

~ Follow-up meetings for discussion and collaborative problem-solving.

My Unique Perspective on Editing

My master’s degree in Written Communication gives me a foundation in rhetoric, which informs how I read and respond to manuscripts. I also engage widely across cultural writing and scholarship, bringing the lens of a curious, critical general reader. Developmental editing, to me, is about asking good questions, listening to the manuscript, and helping the author feel more grounded in their voice and ideas.

How Writers Benefit

Over the years, this is what clients have repeatedly told me about what they take from developmental editing.

They gain clarity, structure, and flow.

Many writers come to me with a rich draft—but it’s sprawling, overwhelming, or missing a clear shape. Together, we clarify the book’s architecture, define its central argument or arc, and create a structure that supports their ideas from start to finish.

Their voice becomes sharper and more confident.

I help clients lean into their natural voice while cutting through clutter, hesitation, or overexplaining. Whether they’re writing academic work, memoir, or nonfiction, writers leave with a clearer tone, greater authority, and a more impactful delivery.

They learn how to revise with purpose.

Instead of simply applying edits, clients gain insight into why things work—or don’t. I walk them through revision strategies that stick. One client called it “the Natalie method”—a repeatable framework they now use to self-edit across all future projects.

Projects get finished—and get better.

When someone’s been stuck in a manuscript for months or years, it can feel impossible to move forward. Through structure, feedback, and encouragement, we break that stalemate. Writers leave with clarity, momentum, and often, a completed draft.

Their writing connects more deeply with readers.

Through our work, writers learn how to slow the pace when it matters, build tension, and make complex ideas resonate. Whether they’re reaching literary agents, magazine editors, or peer reviewers, their writing becomes more engaging and accessible.

They trust me to push their work further.

Clients often arrive unsure who to trust—especially after disappointing editorial experiences. After comparing my test edit to others, one writer said choosing to work with me was “no contest.” I approach each project with care, honesty, and a commitment to the writer’s goals.

They see real-world results.

The outcomes speak for themselves: agent interest, publication in top-tier outlets, improved journal acceptance rates, stronger book proposals, and increased confidence going into tenure or promotion. The transformation is both creative and professional.

They felt deeply supported throughout the process.

Writers describe our work as a true collaboration—not just an edit. I invest in their mission, ideas, and growth. Zoom sessions are energizing, solution-focused, and often the turning point in a project’s trajectory.

They received honest feedback—delivered with clarity and care.

My approach combines direct, actionable critique with deep respect for each writer’s voice and intent. Writers appreciate the balance of rigor and kindness, as well as the detailed notes, chapter outlines, and thoughtful questions that guide revision.

They walk away thinking more clearly, not just writing more clearly.

Beyond improving the manuscript, clients often say our sessions helped them sharpen their thinking. Whether we’re unpacking theoretical arguments or shaping a narrative arc, the process leads to more focused, persuasive, and impactful ideas on the page.

A Note About Cost

Developmental editing is a significant investment, and rates vary based on manuscript length, complexity, and editor experience. The Editorial Freelancers Association offers helpful guidance on typical industry rates. While not inexpensive, many writers find the investment worthwhile—especially when preparing for publication, submission, or peer review. It can prevent costly or time-consuming revisions down the line by strengthening the structure and argument early on.

That said, many editors offer manuscript reviews as a more cost-effective first step. This option provides a bird’s eye view of the manuscript, identifying large-scale strengths and areas for development. It typically does not include in-text comments or collaboration but comes with an editorial letter and follow-up conversation. From there, both writer and editor can decide whether to move into deeper developmental or line editing.

Final Thought

Unlike a house inspection report, a full developmental edit does more than just leave a writer with a list of problems. And this is what I love most about the work: at its core, developmental editing is collaborative, creative, and expansive. Together, the author and editor push the manuscript to its full potential.