Different projects have different needs depending on the starting point. It is important to know what you're looking for when seeking an editor, so they can give you an accurate estimate on both pricing and the time it will take to do the job.
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Disclaimer: Use of services from Mountain Rose Editing in no way guarantees publication or future income on any projects. As we are all human, perfection is neither guaranteed nor expected.
Developmental Editing
Developmental Editing
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Developmental editing is when the writer has a strong idea for a story but needs some help getting the whole story fleshed out properly. This is the most intensive editing option and has the most potential to affect the direction in which your story goes dramatically.
This approach to editing will look at your plot, characters, theme, pacing, etc., to determine if they align and are strong.
Throughout the process, we will communicate regularly, and I will make all suggestions in a way that allows you to accept or reject them, depending on your goals.
A developmental edit will include a thorough reading of the entire manuscript as well as:
editorial report (an overall review of the piece)
in-text annotations with more specific feedback
one re-read after changes are made
Structural Editing
Structural Editing
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A structural edit focuses on the broad picture of the manuscript to determine if you need more chapters, fewer chapters, different locations for a chapter, or any other timeline or structural issues. This edit is less thorough than developmental editing but also has significant potential to alter the story.
The focus here is on making sure that your story flows smoothly and in a way that keeps your reader engaged.
This is similar in some ways to a developmental edit but will not address character development or more detailed information.
A structural edit will include a thorough reading of the manuscript as well as:
notes on the timeline
notes on the structure of events
notes on chapter breaks
Copy Editing
Copy Editing
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Copy editing is more finely detailed than any other type of editing and takes place after a developmental or structural edit. The focus is on improving consistency, understanding of the story, and the mechanics of writing.
The goal here is to be certain that the reader will understand and follow your story.
A copy edit will include the following components:
Spelling
Grammar
Capitalization
Word usage
Dialogue tags
Usage of numbers or numerals
Point Of View/tense
Descriptive inconsistencies
Line Editing
Line Editing
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Line editing is similar to copy editing, except the purpose is less about grammar and punctuation and more about voice and consistency in writing style. Line editing will determine if your characters' voice remains the same throughout the story, as well as your narrator. The goal is to ensure that a sudden shift in style never catches your reader off guard and that it's a smooth and easy read for them.
This is a creative-focused edit as opposed to mechanics.
Proofreading
Proofreading
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Proofreading is the final step in preparing your manuscript for publication. This is the fine-tooth comb that looks for any grammatical errors, spelling, punctuation, etc., to be certain that your readers aren't finding mistakes in your final product.
This is the mechanics-focused edit, as the creative parts should be completed by this point. All formatting should be completed prior to a proofread.
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