Tuesday, October 31, 2017

The Job Of A Developmental Editor

By Sharon Edwards


When it comes to professionals working in the area writing, there are many different positions, one of which is that of a Developmental Editor. In some cases, these individuals might work for an independent author. While in other cases, the individual might work for a publishing house, magazine or newspaper. In most all cases, the individual will be working as a consultant, contractor or freelancer.

When it comes to these type editors, most work on book-length manuscripts including fiction and non-fiction, poetry and prose. While grammar and spelling are important aspects of an editing position, these type editors often look at the big picture which can include the consistency of voice, whether or not language is understandable along with structure and pacing. While many work for publishing houses, others can work for independent authors.

In most cases, these individuals work as freelancers, consultants or contractors. Although, there are some who may work directly for a publishing company or other entity as a permanent employee. While this is the case, those working as consultants, contractors and freelancers are often going to be the highest paid in this area. One reason being, that when an individual works directly for a company, the person often gets a number of benefits not allowed those working on a contract or short-term basis.

In many cases, authors may request an editor to review an entire manuscript. Whereas, in others, the editor may work along side the writer throughout the course of a project editing sections as completed. Whatever the case, it is important to make the writer aware of any errors with regards to grammar, misspellings or content as soon as possible. For, in some cases, a writer might be working against a deadline.

It is important that an individual working in this position enjoys reading. In most cases, editors need to put oneself in the place of an intended audience. For, while writers are often at the helm of the project, the goal is to create a publication which a reader can read and enjoy. As such, when reading as an intended audience, editors can assure this is the case.

While this work can often become monotonous and mundane, it is important to find ways to keep the flow interesting while reading and rereading the material. Most often, individuals can often research various aspects of a project during the process in order to avoid these issues. Whereas, it is also important to take breaks as needed so as to not miss any important errors which could easily be overlooked.

As an editor is often the last to review material before it goes back to the author or publisher for finalization, it is important one do so in a quiet place without interruption. In addition, it is essential that one check for any grammatical incorrectness, spelling errors and puts oneself in the place of the intended audience. In doing so, one can assure that future readers can easily read and understand the information related to a book or project once complete.

Upon submitting the final version to a publisher, most will return the project to the editor and writer for one last final review. During this phase, it is important to check all aspects of the book or other project including the title of contents, content, covers, bibliographies and any other information before returning the item back to the publisher. For, once a book is bound, or a project finalized, it can often be far more costly to edit and republish.




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