Developmental editing can seem mysterious, but every editor has their own approach. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at how I tackle a manuscript, from first read to in-depth feedback.

Step 1: The Reader Pass

The very first thing I do is a cold read from start to finish—what I like to call “walking myself through the story”. I read the manuscript straight through on my e-reader, as though it were already a published book. The goal here is simple: experience the story as a reader would, rather than analysing it line by line, and gather first-reader impressions.

During this initial read, I absorb the story’s world, characters, plot, themes, and arcs. I’m looking at the big picture: Is there a central story question? Are the protagonists fully driving the story? Do they feel real, compelling, and emotionally engaging? Does the story maintain momentum and keep the reader turning pages? Are the plot events believable and cohesive, and do the characters grow in ways that feel earned?

This big-picture overview is crucial—it informs everything that comes next. Without it, I can’t accurately evaluate how the story works as a whole, let alone on a scene-by-scene level.

“This big-picture overview informs everything that comes next.”

Step 2: The Editor Pass

After the reader pass, I dive into a closer, more meticulous pass. This is where I start combining macro-level story analysis with micro-level attention to each scene, paragraph, and sentence. I ask questions like:

Does each scene feel immediate and immersive?
Can I access the characters’ thoughts and feelings? Do I “live” the story through them?
Are the visuals vivid and the events tangible?
Does the pacing lag anywhere? Are there moments where my engagement drops?

Every time a question or concern arises, I insert a comment directly into the manuscript. At the same time, I take notes in a separate document, collecting observations, key excerpts, and initial ideas for feedback. This often results in pages of rough notes that become the foundation for the editorial letter.

Step 3: The Editorial Letter

The editorial letter is the heart of a developmental edit. It’s a thorough, detailed report on how well every part of the manuscript serves the story. I highlight what’s working, what might need more development, and pose plenty of questions to spark the author’s own ideas for revision. My goal isn’t to tell the author exactly how to fix their story, but to illuminate every corner of the manuscript, giving them a clear roadmap for shaping it into its strongest version.

“The editorial letter is the heart of a developmental edit.”

When I deliver the editorial letter, along with a marked-up manuscript full of my comments, I always encourage authors to take a day or two to sit with the feedback. Reflect on what resonates, consider what aligns with the story you want to tell, and decide which suggestions truly serve your vision. My role as an editor isn’t to impose my own vision—it’s to help you bring yours to life as clearly, effectively, and satisfyingly as possible.

Looking for Editorial Direction?

If this process resonates with you and you’re looking for hands-on support to take your manuscript from draft to a fully realised story, I’d love to work with you.

All of my editing packages include a developmental edit as a core part of the process. From the very first read through to a detailed editorial letter, your story receives thoughtful, tailored attention at every stage.

I take on a limited number of 1:1 editing clients each year, so if you’re ready to take the next step with your manuscript, get in touch to secure your place and begin shaping your story.