In this blogpost, we explain the difference between developmental editing and copyediting and how can an author determine what is suitable for their manuscript.
Editing is an essential part of the writing process, but it can often feel overwhelming for authors, especially when faced with terms like “developmental editing” and “copyediting.” These two types of editing serve distinct purposes, and understanding the difference between them can help you determine which is the best fit for your manuscript (MS) at different stages of your writing journey.
Whether you’re a debut author or a seasoned writer, knowing what each type of editing entails will not only improve your manuscript but also increase its chances of success in the publishing world.
What Is Developmental Editing?
Developmental editing, also known as content or structural editing, takes a big-picture approach to your manuscript. It focuses on the overall structure, plot, character development, pacing, and thematic elements. A developmental editor evaluates the core elements of your story and provides feedback on how to strengthen them, making sure the manuscript flows logically and keeps the reader engaged.
Developmental editors are like architects—they help you ensure that the foundation of your manuscript is solid, and the walls of your story are strong.
A developmental editor will look at:
- Plot structure: Does the story follow a coherent arc? Are there inconsistencies in the timeline?
- Character development: Are your characters well-rounded and evolving throughout the story? Do their actions and motivations feel authentic?
- Pacing: Is the story too slow in some parts and too rushed in others?
- Themes: Does the manuscript explore its themes in a meaningful and consistent way?
- Point of view: Are you using the right narrative perspective? Is it maintained consistently throughout the book?
For example, suppose you’re working on a historical fiction novel set in India, similar to something by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni. A developmental editor might point out that while your main character’s motivations are compelling, the subplot involving a secondary character feels disconnected and underdeveloped. They would suggest ways to either integrate that subplot into the main narrative more seamlessly or remove it altogether.
What Is Copyediting?
Copyediting, on the other hand, is much more technical and focuses on the finer details of your manuscript. Copyeditors are the eagle-eyed professionals who catch all the errors in grammar, punctuation, spelling, and syntax.
They ensure that the manuscript adheres to style guides and is consistent in tone and formatting. Unlike developmental editing, which involves major structural changes, copyediting addresses the polish—fine-tuning your manuscript to prepare it for publication.
A copyeditor will look at:
- Grammar and punctuation: Are you using the correct tenses? Are your sentences punctuated correctly?
- Spelling and word choice: Are there any typos or misused words? Are terms consistently spelled (especially in manuscripts that use regional dialects or non-English terms)?
- Syntax and sentence structure: Do your sentences flow well, or are they clunky? Are there sentence fragments or run-ons?
- Consistency: Are character names, settings, and other details consistent throughout the manuscript?
- Factual accuracy: In non-fiction, or even fiction with historical elements, is your information accurate and properly cited where needed?
Using the example of a historical fiction novel, a copyeditor would focus on correcting typos, making sure that your references to historical events or figures are accurate, and ensuring that the language remains consistent.
For instance, if you refer to the British Empire’s rule in one chapter as starting in 1857 and in another as 1858, a copyeditor will flag that discrepancy.
Recommended Read: Line Editing V/s Copyediting
Key Differences Between Developmental Editing and Copyediting
Here’s a breakdown of how developmental editing and copyediting differ in terms of what they address:
| Aspect | Developmental Editing | Copyediting |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Story structure, plot, pacing, character development | Grammar, punctuation, spelling, consistency |
| Scope | Big-picture analysis of the manuscript | Line-by-line technical corrections |
| Depth | Involves rewriting or restructuring sections | Polishing existing text without changing the content’s core |
| When to Use | Early in the editing process, before line or copyedits | After structural edits, when the manuscript is ready for final polish |
| Goal | Strengthening the narrative and overall story | Eliminating errors and improving clarity |
How to Determine Which Editing Your Manuscript Needs
1. Does your manuscript feel complete?
If you’ve just finished your first draft and have not yet made any significant revisions, it’s too early for copyediting. At this stage, you need developmental editing to ensure that your plot, characters, and pacing are solid.
Think of developmental editing as the “construction phase” of your manuscript. The manuscript is like a house being built: you need to make sure the walls, rooms, and foundation are sturdy before adding the final paint and decor (which would be copyediting).
Developmental editing is crucial if you’re working on complex stories or non-linear narratives, as it helps bring cohesion and structure. Books like “The Palace of Illusions” by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni, which weave intricate tales of history, mythology, and personal reflection, often require this kind of thorough development.
2. Is your manuscript almost ready for submission or publication?
If you’ve revised your manuscript multiple times and feel that the story is solid, then it’s time for copyediting. Copyediting should be the final step before submission to agents, publishers, or before you self-publish.
Copyediting is vital if you’re concerned about the professionalism of your manuscript. Indian authors like Jhumpa Lahiri and Arundhati Roy have their works go through rigorous rounds of copyediting to ensure every sentence is clean, and every word is perfectly placed.
3. Do you need help with structure or just the technicalities?
If you’re worried about pacing, plot holes, or character development, then developmental editing is what you need. This kind of editing will guide you through refining your narrative, adding depth to your characters, and ensuring that your story flows in a cohesive way.
On the other hand, if your concerns are around grammar, consistency, and clarity, a copyedit is the better choice. Copyediting ensures that your manuscript is professional, error-free, and ready for readers.
Recommended Read: 7 Things to Know about Editing
Conclusion: When Do You Need Both?
In many cases, manuscripts require both developmental editing and copyediting, but not at the same time. Developmental editing comes first to address big-picture elements and restructure your story. Once your manuscript is strong in terms of content, copyediting can take place to catch any technical errors and give the book its final polish.
Think of it as a two-step process. First, you make sure your manuscript is a well-built, structurally sound house. Then, you ensure it’s painted beautifully and decorated to perfection, ready to impress any visitors—or in this case, readers.
By understanding the difference between developmental editing and copyediting, you can ensure that your manuscript gets the attention it needs at the right stage. Whether you’re aiming for traditional publishing or self-publishing, the right kind of editing will ensure that your book is the best version of itself.
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