What Are the Different Types of Editing?
Editing comes in many forms, which makes it a confusing landscape for both first-time and seasoned authors. When submitting your manuscript to potential editors, you’ll want to understand what the different types of editing are and what type of editing your manuscript needs.
Different Types of Editing
The different types of editing (in order) are as follows:
- Developmental editing
- Line editing
- Copyediting
- Proofreading
Developmental editing
Developmental editing is subject to different interpretations by different editors. Some editors lump this with other terms like manuscript assessment, manuscript evaluation, substantive editing, or content editing. Technically, however, those are all different services.
For the purposes of a quick definition, though, think of all of these as big picture editing. An editor will look at the the viability of your story, plot, characters, setting, theme, and so on. They’ll explain what needs changing and why, but they won’t touch your writing. It’s up to you to come up with new ideas based on your editor’s suggestions — and then put pen to paper.
It’s during this stage that your story idea will evolve, and your manuscript will see major changes.
This phase takes patience, time, and — if you’re hiring an editor — it’s also the most expensive.
Sensitivity reading
Once the big picture pieces of your story are in place, you may want to consider a sensitivity reader. Sometimes called an authenticity read or a diversity read, a sensitivity read is when a reader familiar with a specific underrepresented population reads your manuscript for potential issues.
Sensitivity readers specialize by gender, race, nationality, sexual orientation, ability/disability, and more. Their job is to look at representation of minority characters through the lens of problematic language, character arcs, and potential stereotypes. They’ll suggest changes that make your manuscript more inclusive, well-rounded, and authentic.
While it’s not necessary to hire a sensitivity reader for every book, you might want to seek one out if you are writing about a character or issue that differs from your own experience.
Line editing
Once your story is finalized, a line editor will go through and look at your manuscript on a line-by-line level. They work within your manuscript making changes for you.
Line editors suggest and rewrite sentences so that your writing flows, is concise, and clear. Think of line editing as adding an artistic touch to your writing.
Copyediting
Where line editors are artists, copyeditors deal with the mechanics of writing. They correct grammar, punctuation, and word usage. They also work within your manuscript and make changes (that you can accept or reject).
Proofreading
The final stage before publication is proofreading. At this point, your book has been formatted and you need that last set of eyes to ensure that there are no remaining grammar, punctuation, or formatting issues.
Proofreaders check everything from typos, to page numbers, to the table of contents, to layout issues. Once a proofreader has worked on your book, it’s ready to print.
Types of Editing: FAQ
Wait, but I thought X type of editing was really Y type of editing?
Yup, that’s what makes finding an editor overwhelming. Why? Because some of these terms are used interchangeably with others. Some editors use different definitions for each type of editing. And most every editor will have a different procedure for providing editorial services.
As an author shopping for a potential editor, make sure you’re clear on what’s included in their service. Always ask. Any editor will be upfront about what they offer and what their price includes.
What if I don’t know what type of editing I need?
That’s OK. Let potential editors know. You’ll need to send them your manuscript (or a sample of you manuscript), and they’ll be honest about what type and level of editing is best.
What if I’m on a budget?
You don’t need to hire an editor for each and every step outlined above. If you can only afford one, choose that one. If you’re not sure, ask. Many editors are happy to set you in the right direction or tailor their services based on what you can afford.
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