Hire the best Developmental Editors

Check out Developmental Editors with the skills you need for your next job.
  • $50 hourly
    Passionate children's book editor with 15+ years experience in picture books, middle grade fiction, and nonfiction for companies such as Disney and Penguin. I have spent the past fifteen years working as a children’s book editor. There is nothing I love more than diving into a manuscript and helping to pull out all its potential. I believe in collaboration, but also brutal honesty. Too often as an author it is difficult to see where a story is not being true to itself. That’s where I come in. It's my job to tease out the scenes that are good and help you to make them great. To find the moments that aren't quite working and figure out how to turn them into the strongest scenes in the story. Together, we can shape your book into what you always dreamed it would be. I began my career at Sterling Publishing, working primarily on nonfiction titles. Although I thought I wanted to be in fiction, I found that I loved the challenge of nonfiction. Helping to explain sometimes complex subject matter in a way children could understand and finding a new angle on content that had often been covered more than once was exciting, and I loved learning from my authors as I developed their books. Today I know more about the solar system, the ghosts haunting the White House, and how to start a successful babysitting company than I ever dreamed I would! Following a new career opportunity, I moved from Sterling to Penguin. With the move came a change in the types of books I edited, and I began to work on picture books and middle grade fiction, as well as licensed tie-in books. This change to licensed books ultimately led me to Disney, where I spent eight years editing books tied to the Disney Parks and to Disney movies. This work provided a whole new challenge, as I helped authors to create stories that were new and fresh, expanding the worlds of beloved characters far beyond that envisioned by the filmmakers, all while staying true to the world of Disney canon. This is a skill I have found to be incredibly valuable in today's landscape of books featuring modern retellings of classic tales. I was also afforded the opportunity to create original fiction, and had a chance to return to my roots, with nonfiction titles based on Disney heritage. In my time at Disney, I edited over eight hundred books. Among my favorites (and my most successful) were Hide and Hug Olaf, by Kevin Lewis, which sold over 400,000 copies, and Olaf's Night Before Christmas, which sold over 250,000 copies. Now, I'm excited to take on a new challenge: helping you to turn your book into exactly what you hope it will be. I look forward to working with you and, together, creating an absolutely fantastic book. Testimonials: “I’ve worked with Brooke for many years and can’t speak highly enough about her abilities as an editor. She has consistently elevated my work with her insights, and her creative comments never fail to inspire. I can’t imagine having written my books without her help, and consider myself fortunate to have worked with her.” --Jason Lethcoe, Author "Brooke is an excellent editor who inspires and guides the creative process in a highly competent and collaborative way. Having worked with her on several books now, I have no doubt that she similarly brings out the best in all of her authors."--Tania Zamorsky, Author
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    Children's Writing
    Editing & Proofreading
    Line Editing
    Book Editing
  • $35 hourly
    I am a dedicated, dependable, and detail-oriented writer and editor that provides quality content. With over 15 years of experience in writing and editing for various companies and organizations, I also have a background in literature, education, art, and magazine publishing. I hold a Master's degree in Secondary English Education and a Bachelor's in Studio Art with an English minor. Some of my past projects include a year-long serial story published in News and Views, multiple ebooks and articles on a wide variety of topics, children's stories and books, and many plot outlines. In addition, I have written product descriptions, website content, and published novels. I also edit fiction and non-fiction books for several publishing companies, write reviews for movies, tv, literature, and comic books, and contribute to a well-respected blog.
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    Review
    Ghostwriting
    English
    Education
    Fantasy
    Creative Writing
  • $75 hourly
    – Published author and highly experienced writer, editor and proofreader for a very diverse range of clients, from professors to prime ministers – Writing/editing work featured in major publications, including Harvard Business Review, Newsweek, the Guardian, the Observer and the Diplomat – Outstanding track record of helping academics to get published in leading journals, including Organizational Science, Frontiers in Psychology, Minds and Machines, and Digital Society – Award-winning ghostwriter and author of books ranging from children's stories to a biography of Joe Biden – Business development professional whose proposal writing has contributed to winning funding of over $80 million – 99.4% five-star reviews on Upwork (the other 0.6% were 4.75 stars)
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    Fundraising
    Writing
    US English Dialect
    Strategy
    Project Management Professional
    British English Dialect
    Digital Marketing
    Business Proposal Writing
    Academic Editing
    Copywriting
    Book
    English
  • $42 hourly
    I have over 30 years' experience in the publishing/writing industry, working as everything from an in-house editor to an investigative reporter to a novelist to a medical/technical writer to a screenwriter. I've been an independent contractor for 24 years working as a freelance editor (developmental and line editing), writer (fiction and nonfiction), ghostwriter, and copy editor. I'm able to see the big picture in a piece of writing as well as being diligent about the details. As a novelist, I appreciate the music of language and the importance of tone and character. As a writer of technical material, I recognize the importance of clarity and precision in the writing. I keep clients apprised of progress and am always available for communication. I believe my years of experience in various kinds of writing as well as in research, editing, copy editing, and ghostwriting create a package of competence and expertise.
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    Report Writing
    Creative Writing
    Ghostwriting
    English to Spanish Translation
    News Writing
    Copy Editing
    Research Papers
  • $45 hourly
    With over 30 years experience in copywriting, editing, proofreading and publishing... in all mediums from print to online and video, I have the experience to assist you in your next project. Whether you're perfecting your message or writing the great American novel, put my wordsmith skills to use in achieving your goals. As an author/editor and bibliophile, I enjoy working to help other authors create and polish their masterpiece. From Mysteries to Memoirs, Romance to DIY, if you've got a manuscript to bring to life, I would love to be a part of your process. • Full Editing and Proofreading services including Developmental, Line, and Copy Editing • Self-publishing services including formatting for ebook and print as well as publishing assistance • Cover design and Formatting • Blurb and Description writing • Canva ads, video trailers and more • CMOS From simple proofreading to complex publishing and formatting, refining the copy to developmental editing, I can help make your content shine.
    vsuc_fltilesrefresh_TrophyIcon Developmental Editing
    Proofreading
    Grammar & Syntax Review
    Line Editing
    Chicago Manual of Style
    EPUB
    Typesetting
    Book Cover
    Formatting
    Book Editing
    Kindle Direct Publishing
    Canva
    Publishing
    English
  • $35 hourly
    My portfolio includes Indie authors who have become New York Times, USA Today, and International Bestsellers. A few even received publishing deals with Hachette Book Group and Random House LLC. after working with me. Some of those authors include: Jessica Sorensen, Jamie Begley, Terri Anne Browning, and MJ Fields. For a full list of works completed, visit my website at: cdediting (dot) weebly (dot) com. I have also worked on screenplays, blog articles, educational training manuals and books, websites, query letters, and press releases. Not only do I help with editing and proofreading, I also love to help first-time authors publish their first books, giving marketing tips and guiding them every step of the way. I specialize in copy editing, developmental editing, proofreading, and editorial assessment, using the Microsoft Word "Track Changes" and "Comment" features. Specialties include: ​ - Reviewing content for style, grammar, spelling accuracy, punctuation, and consistency. - Text content, quality writing, research, and detail-orientation. - Improving flow, continuity, and overall structure. Experience in the Indie world has given me the tools to make your transition into a self-published author even easier.
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    Fiction Writing
    Editing & Proofreading
    Error Detection
    Microsoft Word
    Content Editing
    Proofreading
    Line Editing
    English
  • $40 hourly
    LONGSTANDING ELANCE/UPWORK GHOSTWRITER. Besides ghostwriting nonfiction books, healthcare journal articles, white papers, web-content, and blog articles for online clients over the past 12 years, I have edited and formatted professors' manuscripts and doctoral dissertations for 20+ years. I have also performed copy-editing of memoir and fiction manuscripts, and self-published three books. In addition, I have formatted paperbacks and e-books to meet self-publishing platform requirements. My extensive experience in interpreting publisher requirements has been invaluable to faculty members and Postdoc researchers in the publication of their journal articles and textbook chapters. I hold a Masters in Public Health with a strong medical and scientific terminology background. From federal to foundation grants (and blog-posts to manuscripts), I can provide the writing or editing you need. My four basic service categories are: - Nonfiction ghostwriting; - Nonfiction editing (developmental editing, line-editing, and copy-editing); - Fiction editing (copy-editing); - Performing online research to ghostwrite or edit nonfiction manuscripts and other documents
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    Blog Writing
    Publication Design
    Academic Writing
    Copywriting
    Press Release
    Copy Editing
    English
    Ghostwriting
  • $28 hourly
    Hi! I'm a creative/ghostwriter and developmental book editor primarily dedicated to supporting self-publishing authors and online book publishers determined to satisfy their readers and grow their fanbase by producing high-quality, error-free books. I'm one of Upwork's Top Rated Plus freelancers, with a BA (Hons) in English Language & Literature, a passion for books, and 7 years of experience in delivering a consistently high standard of work and professionalism across a variety of different fictional genres for clients across the world. I invite you to browse my portfolio and the very positive client feedback I've been lucky enough to receive to date. I welcome all enquiries, so do get in touch via Upwork's messaging centre if you would like to know more about my services or think I might be a good fit for your project. By the way, I'm a native English speaker based in the UK, and I work in UK, US, AU, and NZ English, depending on clients' needs. I'm familiar with all major style books, including AP, APA, CMOS. My pronouns are: She/Her
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    Creative Writing
    Ghostwriting
    Editing & Proofreading
    Error Detection
    Fiction Writing
  • $45 hourly
    Hello! I am a freelancer specializing in fiction editing. I am a former world language and English teacher with both a BA and MA. I also have a certification in editing. I have a strong grasp of punctuation, grammar, and syntax. I am also experienced with using the Chicago Manual of Style. I offer book coaching, story and series planning, developmental editing, copy editing, line editing, and proofreading services. As a reader, I have eclectic tastes across many genres. As an editor, I have experience editing fiction manuscripts in a variety of genres including romance, fantasy, thriller, mystery, and science fiction. I have a keen eye for detail and excellent communication and organization skills. I am a self-starter and a hard worker. I appreciate you stopping by my profile! I hope to work with you soon! Check me out on Facebook and Instagram at Greenwing Editing! Member, Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA); Chicagoland Chapter Member, ACES: the Society for Editing Member, LGBTQ+ Association of Editors
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    Editing & Proofreading
    Content Editing
    Fiction
    Thriller
    Mystery
    Young Adult
    Beta Reading
    Romance
    Content Rewriting
    Line Editing
    Copy Editing
    Proofreading
    Book Editing
  • $75 hourly
    I am an accomplished resume writer, developmental editor, copyeditor, and proofreader with a proven track record. My resume clients are consistently discovered by recruiters and hiring managers and are invited to job interviews. Furthermore, my editing clients have published in literary, academic, and trade publications in addition to signing with literary agents and publishing their books both traditionally and independently. I've also edited personal statements and application essays that have resulted in my clients being admitted to law school, medical school, dental school, and more. I have a versatile skill set. I write professional resumes, cover letters, and LinkedIn profiles designed to be compatible with employer Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). I also offer assessments and professional critiques of literary fiction and nonfiction with tangible suggestions for revision. In addition, I help writers to develop and refine their work at any stage of the writing process by editing and proofing manuscripts, articles, marketing materials, annual reports, dissertations, and everything in between for clarity and coherence. Finally, I write blog and social media posts, cover letters, scholarly articles, journalistic pieces, web content, and creative pieces. I have edited creative work by Robert Vivian, Philip Dacey, Mariko Nagai, Andria Williams, Simon Perchik, Joyce Dyer, Karl Elder, and James Grabill, among others, and I have also interviewed New York Times best-selling author Chad Harbach (author of The Art of Fielding). My essays and poetry have appeared in numerous literary journals, including Sonora Review, Fugue, Dos Passos Review, Oyez Review, and Steam Ticket. I am the owner of Signe Jorgenson Editorial Services, and I serve as Co-Editor in Chief at both Pebblebrook Press and Stoneboat Literary Journal. More information about me, my services, and my editing work can be found on my website.
    vsuc_fltilesrefresh_TrophyIcon Developmental Editing
    Applicant Tracking Systems
    Copy Editing
    LinkedIn Profile Creation
    Book Editing
    Proofreading
    Cover Letter Writing
    LinkedIn Development
    Writing
    Academic Writing
    Academic Editing
    Line Editing
    Resume Writing
    Editing & Proofreading
  • $45 hourly
    Hi, I'm Cara! I'm a developmental fiction editor. I love working with authors and creative people! I have a decade of experience providing developmental editing. I am happy to edit any length of story. I am a member of the Editorial Freelancers Association and strive to uphold their standards of professionalism and integrity. ----- How does developmental editing differ from copyediting? Developmental (sometimes called substantive) editing doesn't focus on correcting grammar errors, but rather takes a deep look into the story itself. A developmental editor checks for story flow, effectiveness, point of view, passive language, consistency, and areas where your story can be expanded on or polished so that it stays in the minds and hearts of readers. A copyeditor corrects technical details of a manuscript's writing content, such as grammar and spelling. These edits ensure your manuscript is ready for publishing or to send to an agent. Unlike developmental edits, story/plot content is not typically addressed during a copyedit. ----- Which type of editing do you need? Your book or story may require one more than the other, depending on myriad factors. Many stories require both services. If you're curious about the types of editing I offer and which might best serve your needs, please reach out to me!
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    Copy Editing
    Fiction
    Proofreading
    Chicago Manual of Style
    Fantasy
    Book Editing
    Science Fiction
    Romance
    Literature
    Writing Critique
  • $38 hourly
    Hi there! Thank you for checking out my profile. I'm a top-level writer, editor, and proofreader, with years of experience in both fiction and non-fiction across a wide range of genres and subjects. I have a first-class Honours degree in English Literature and Creative Writing, from the University of East Anglia. I have been freelancing for 8 years, and have never missed a deadline or failed to deliver on a project. I understand the importance of accurate spelling, grammar, and punctuation, and I know how to construct emotive and powerful sentences. I'm an excellent teacher, and can provide in-depth commentary on your work. My experience includes: - Writing fiction and non-fiction books in many different areas - Developmental editing, copy editing, and line editing - Proofreading novels across genres - Work on biographies and autobiographies - Extensive transcription work - Creating online articles, with a good understanding of SEO (frequently appearing in the top 10% on Google) - Editing and creating business emails - A wide range of other writing, editing, and proofreading services I have edited creative writing pieces for Masters courses, written a fortnightly serial for a local newspaper, and been published in four creative writing anthologies. I have also completed an Open University ‘Start Writing Fiction’ course, and ghostwritten over 50 non-fiction books. I am efficient and thorough, and will work meticulously to ensure any document is polished and accurate. I'm not happy until my client is happy, which is why I will always revise a piece until you feel it has reached perfection. I look forward to working with you!
    vsuc_fltilesrefresh_TrophyIcon Developmental Editing
    Copy Editing
    Book Writing
    Creative Writing
    Proofreading
    Content Writing
    Ebook Writing
    Children's Writing
    Article Writing
    Memoir Writing
    Fiction Writing
    Novel
    Biography Writing
    English
  • $45 hourly
    My work as an academic editor and coach satisfies two kinds of client: 1. PhD and Master's degree students who need support in completing their thesis or dissertation; 2. Researchers who need assistance in preparing their journal articles and reports for publication. Although there are many similarities in the work, since both require a strong knowledge of academic writing, understanding of scholarly standards, and commitment to excellence and rigor, there are some differences as outlined below. 1. PhD or Master's Students Completing a PhD or Master’s degree is difficult enough at the best of times. So, as well as editing manuscripts to meet the university's expectations, I also specialize in working with graduate students who have run into extra challenges along the way. I can help if you’re: • Lost and stuck because you don’t understand what your supervisor wants • Unclear about how to improve the structure or narrative flow of your thesis or dissertation • Not sure how to write a Literature Review • Conducting a specialized technical or medical Systematic Literature Review • Confused about why you need a Theoretical Framework (and what is that anyway??) • Wondering what to put into your Introduction, or Conclusion • Mixing up your Methodology with your Findings and Discussion • Recovering from an illness or a personal loss and need help re-engaging with your studies • Still at the proposal stage and trying to understand what's needed for a PhD or Master's If you want specific proofreading and editing services, I can improve and polish your drafts In particular, I can help with: • Academic English, including correct spelling, grammar and punctuation • Using narrative citations as well as parenthetical citations to make the message clearer • Complying with your university’s style guide (e.g., APA7, Chicago, Harvard, etc.) • Structuring your chapters, and ensuring there is narrative flow • Making sure that you’re writing a thesis or dissertation, not a book full of your opinions • Improving your AI-generated drafts to ensure authenticity and a voice that's your own. 2. Researchers If you are an individual researchers, or a member of a research team, and are subject matter experts who need to present their findings to meet the highest standards. I can assist by: • Proofreading to improve the English so that the research is clearly explained • Editing documents to follow academic protocols for format and structure • Applying the style guide preferences (APA, Chicago, AMA, etc.) of particular scholarly journals • Ensuring that reports or proposals are written to suit the readership • Checking that articles and reports have the expected sections and subsections • Verifying that proposals to government agencies are comprehensive. Whether you are a student, a researcher or a faculty member, I invite you to find out more in a free 10-minute introductory Zoom Call. Ask questions, tell me more about your study, find out how I can help. Please check the positive feedback from my many satisfied clients, and then get in touch. I look forward to hearing from you. Elizabeth
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    Grammar
    Dissertation
    Thesis
    ESL Teaching
    Executive Coaching
    Book Editing
    Copy Editing
    Coaching
    Editing & Proofreading
    Teaching
    Tutoring
    Academic Editing
    Academic Proofreading
    English
  • $50 hourly
    Well-seasoned creative writer and educator specializing in developmental editing, educational media, narrative fiction and non-fiction, and content for children. My preference is for collaborative environments filled with people striving to make themselves and the world a better place. I love storytelling. It's in our nature to connect through our stories. That's why I like to form relationships with my clients. I want to know what story you want to tell. I want to know what journey you want your audience or your students to take. If you need a story or developmental editor, I have three decades of experience working with authors, screenwriters, directors, publishers, and producers. If you need creative content, I have almost three decades experience writing for print, film, TV, stage, and web. I also have an extensive background in teaching writing and developing curriculum. I believe effective curriculum reveals ideas like a story. If you are not sure whether you need a story editor, developmental editor, or writing coach, I am happy to provide a needs assessment for your project to see if it’s something I can help you with. I can cater my writing services to whatever stage your project is in. I want to help your idea find its best voice. My interests are as diverse as my experience. I never know what I’m going to fall in love with. I am a literary mutt, a geek for clever wordplay, a devourer of memoirs, and a sucker for a well-placed semi-colon or rhyming couplet. I am drawn toward the quirky, innovative, whimsical, and fantastic.
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    Nonfiction
    Writing
    Short Story Writing
    Poetry
    Curriculum Development
    Lyrics Writing
    Creative Writing
    Story Editing
    Content Writing
    Worldbuilding
    Screenwriting
    Children's Writing
    Education
  • $95 hourly
    I'll help you get your manuscript polished up and ready to publish! As more and more authors turn to self-publishing methods, I understand that producing a high-quality product is key to making your book stand out from the crowd. Whatever your needs, I am the support partner to take you to the finish line. -Over 100 books published -Member of the Independent Book Publishers Association, giving you unprecedented access to industry expertise and resources -Editorial judge of the Ben Franklin Book Awards (now IBPA awards): I know EXACTLY what will make your book successful in a crowded marketplace DIY self-publishing authors, I can produce your print, ebook, and audiobook in multiple ready-to-upload formats for: -Amazon KDP -IngramSpark -Lulu -Draft2Digital -Audible -Spotify -Apple Books and iTunes -Google Play -or any platform, printer, or distributor to suit your needs. Lean on my editorial expertise for content organization, formatting, typesetting, cover design, proofreading and editing, and guide you through the publication process. Done-With-You: There is a lot to navigate in the publishing landscape. Whether you need help with ISBNs or understanding print-on-demand options, let's get on a call and talk through the support you're looking for. Need a done-for-you approach? My full publishing imprint has all the resources to professionally publish your book.
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    EPUB
    Book Cover
    Editorial Design
    Ebook Design
    Publishing Fundamentals
    Proofreading
    Kindle Direct Publishing
    Adobe Photoshop
    Adobe Illustrator
    Adobe InDesign
    Graphic Design
    Formatting
  • $40 hourly
    Over the past two decades, I've honed my skills working for a variety of publications (mainly magazines and newspapers) and covering subjects ranging from politics to arts and entertainment, including regular opinion pieces. I also have extensive experience writing grant applications, essays, and press releases, as well as editing and proofreading both fiction and non-fiction work. I graduated with a bilingual diploma, and am able to speak, read, and write in fluent French.
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    English
    US English Dialect
    Line Editing
    Copy Editing
    British English Dialect
    Canadian English Dialect
    Writing
    Translation
    Journalism Writing
    Photo Retouching
    Adobe Photoshop
  • $70 hourly
    I'm a professional publishing consultant, editor, and writing coach with years of experience in the publishing industry. When working with you, my mission is to be your go-to collaborator for your project by remaining highly focused on your needs and by providing high-quality deliverables tailored to your project's goals. We can begin working together at any stage of your publishing journey as my skills and services include writing coaching, beta reading, editorial assessments, developmental editing, copyediting, proofreading, and publishing consulting. Having worked at two university presses, I have experience with manuscripts of all types including fiction, nonfiction, poetry, short stories, business, and education. As a freelancer, I've also worked with fantasy, romance, crime fiction, and other commercial genres. I also have a BFA in Creative Writing and an MA in Management in the Creative Economy. As your editor, I'm dedicated to helping you develop high-quality content that meets all of your goals. I understand the effort that goes into your writing and your desire for your content to be the very best it can be. Therefore, my deliverables include not only the edited manuscript but also edit reports and collaborative revision hours that are all focused on elevating your manuscript. As your publishing consultant, I can guide you through the digital and print publishing process to deliver your content successfully, all while building your author or company brand. Together, we'll navigate your project through the independent, hybrid, or traditional publishing landscapes. I can develop a strong publishing strategy for your content and aid with project management for various steps of the process—from performing market research to executing sales strategies. As your writing coach, I can guide you through the writing process by providing exercises and techniques. I can identify the weaknesses and strengths of your writing and then provide solutions for how to eliminate those weak points and enhance your strengths. My goal is to be someone you can bounce your writing ideas off of and someone who supports and challenges you as a writer. If you're interested in working with me or have any questions, just send me a message telling me about your project and we'll go from there! Types of editing: Developmental Editing A developmental edit focuses on the big-picture elements of your content such as plot, character development, pacing, narrative, etc. For nonfiction books, it focuses on the structure of your content, what objectives need to be met by each section, delivery, etc. If your content is completed but hasn't undergone any revision yet, a developmental edit is where you want to start. When doing a developmental edit of your work, I provide you with a commented manuscript that highlights every suggested revision, edit report(s) with detailed explanations of issues and proposed solutions, and collaborative revision hours to discuss the edits. Line Editing Line editing is a high-level edit that focuses on the language, tone, pace, descriptions, voice, and writing style throughout the manuscript. A line edit includes a mix of direct edits and recommendations for additional content or cuts. When doing a line edit of your work, I provide you with an edited version (using MS Word track changes so you can review the edits) and a style sheet for the specific terminology used in your work (adhering to the Chicago Manual of Style). Copyediting A copyedit focuses on the readability of your content by correcting for grammar, inconsistencies, awkward phrasing, sentence structure, repetitions, etc. When doing a copyedit of your work, I provide you with an edited version (using MS Word track changes so you can review the edits) and a style sheet for the specific terminology used in your work (adhering to the Chicago Manual of Style). Proofreading Proofreading focuses on correcting typos, spelling, punctuation, and other small errors. This is the last phase of editing. When proofreading your content, I provide you with an edited version (using MS Word track changes so you can review the edits) and a style sheet for the specific terminology used in your work (adhering to the Chicago Manual of Style).
    vsuc_fltilesrefresh_TrophyIcon Developmental Editing
    Content Strategy
    Beta Reading
    Chicago Manual of Style
    Proofreading
    Book Editing
    Copy Editing
    Publishing Fundamentals
    Creative Writing
  • $45 hourly
    I work with authors and publishers, primarily in the romance and fantasy genres, to elevate the quality of their books through multiple stages of editing. I have years of experience editing romance and fantasy novels, including work with many tropes and sub-genres. I especially love editing queer romance, dark romance, and paranormal romance. We could be a great fit if you are: 1) A romance or fantasy author looking for an editor before you self-publish, or before submitting your manuscript to traditional publishers 2) A publisher who specializes in romance or fantasy novels looking for a consistent, reliable editor to help with plot development, developmental edits on first drafts, line editing, or copyediting/proofreading. I love romance and fantasy books, and I understand what makes a story great. I love playing “book doctor”—finding things that aren’t working in the story and giving solid, actionable feedback to fix it. And I understand the nitty gritty details of working with the English language to communicate a story to the reader. I follow the Chicago Manual of Style, while deferring to each author’s unique voice, and I make all edits in Word using Track Changes. Send me a message with your word count, genre, timeline, and the type of editing you’re looking for, and we can get started!
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    Fantasy
    Novel
    Romance
    Book Editing
    Copy Editing
    Line Editing
    Fiction Writing
    US English Dialect
    Content Editing
    Writing
    Editing & Proofreading
    Beta Reading
    Grammar & Syntax Review
    Proofreading
  • $50 hourly
    A seasoned communications professional with 15+ years of experience, specializing in book publishing, design, and marketing. Expertise spans interior book design, cover creation, typesetting, editing, and print/ebook formatting for platforms like Amazon KDP, IngramSpark, Lulu, and Barnes & Noble. Skilled in crafting visually compelling and market-ready books that align with branding and audience engagement goals. Proven ability to manage the entire production process—from manuscript editing to final formatting—ensuring seamless publishing and high-quality output. Adept at blending creative design with strategic marketing to help clients amplify their message and achieve measurable success. #Amazon #Ingramspark #kindle #ebook #epub #ebookdesign #mobi #Smashwords #Lulu #KDP #bookdesign #printlayout #book #PDF #bookpublishing #Indesign #canva #barnesandnoble #book formatting #formatting #ebookformatting #cover #amazonbooklaunch#bookmarketing
    vsuc_fltilesrefresh_TrophyIcon Developmental Editing
    Presentation Design
    Microsoft PowerPoint
    Brand Identity & Guidelines
    PDF
    PDF Conversion
    Print Layout
    Book Editing
    EPUB
    Electronic Publishing
    Book Layout
    Book Cover
    Ebook Design
    Kindle Direct Publishing
    Adobe InDesign
    Print Design
    Book
    Formatting
    Typesetting
  • $45 hourly
    If you are looking for an efficient and smart worker who follows instructions to a T, then you have come to the right place. Hello and welcome to my profile. MY SKILLS: * Creative writing. * ebook writing * Content writing/Scriptwriting/Blog writing/ SEO. * Ghostwriting. * Editing, Developmental Editing, Proofreading. * Marketing expert and Facilitator in marketing skills. * Motivational speaking and life coaching focusing on personal achievement, life skills, and character development. * Tutoring covering English, Life Orientation, Social Sciences, Tourism, and Dramatic Arts. ABOUT ME: Loud, vibrant, honest, creative, intelligent, and sincere are just a few examples contributing to my gigantic personality. Being someone that interacts well with others has been rewarding as a freelancer. I believe in the law of attraction; therefore, I continue to walk on a distinguished path. My experience as a freelancer has awarded me many opportunities in the writing, editing, proofreading, and marketing fields. I attribute my knowledge, skills, and success to the opportunities I have been given throughout my 20 years of freelancing. I am more than grateful to have had that kind of exposure. My creative abilities and nutcracker imagination have contributed to my unique writing skill, just as having a birds-eye view has helped me with accuracy when proofreading and editing. I also have an excellent command of the English language as I am a native speaker who has had the advantage of being exposed to diverse cultures as I hail from a country known as a rainbow nation. I am the "Jack'' of various trades, although master of none. Please feel free to contact me for your project. I look forward to hearing from you. Thank you Sharon Vanessa
    vsuc_fltilesrefresh_TrophyIcon Developmental Editing
    Employee Training
    Article Writing
    Life Coaching
    Biography Writing
    English Tutoring
    Website Copywriting
    Recipe Writing
    Greeting Cards & Invitations
    Creative Writing
    Proofreading
    Blog Content
    Ghostwriting
  • $75 hourly
    "I can't begin to tell you how happy I am with the wonderful job Alan did. He brought my words to life." "Alan did exceptional work throughout his contract. He does the work of two writers in half the time." I 9-5 scribe children's books, short stories, and rhymes, creating magic with words. When you hire me, I'll treat your project as my own. I'm only happy once I've exceeded your expectations. I've written and edited dozens of children's books, including rhyming books. I'm particularly drawn to stories about travel, human and animal rights, and environmentalism. If you like rhymes, find my two children's albums -- "Room for Dessert" and "Seconds" by Alan Bo -- on Bandcamp or wherever you stream music. I'm also passionate about writing and editing non-fiction children's books, including books about STEM. I've written a world atlas for children, profiled women in STEM to inspire future generations, and collaborated with BILL NYE on a space book! Beyond children's writing and editing, I've also edited dozens of poetry books, written or edited over 20 memoirs, coached memoir writers, and written sleep stories for apps like Calm and Headspace. With over a decade of writing and editing experience, your words are in good hands! Get in touch to see what kind of magic I can bring to your project! WHAT I OFFER ►Rhyming stories, songs, and poems ►Children's fiction and non-fiction ►STEM books for kids ►Developmental editing on poetry books ►Memoir and autobiography coaching ►Sleep stories (similar to Calm and Headspace) WHAT CLIENTS GET ►Fresh, engaging writing ►Creative solutions ►Quick delivery ►Easy interactions with an all-round cool guy* *FUN ALAN FACTS ►I've traveled to over 60 countries. ►I'm a certified scuba divemaster. ►I recently adopted a staffy! FAVORITE AUTHORS & INSPIRATIONS ►Dr. Seuss ►Roald Dahl ►Beverly Cleary ►Judy Blume ►Jeff Kinney Read all the way here and not sick of me yet? Check out my sample of children's stories below. If you have any questions, or you'd like to know about my current availability, invite me to your job, and I'll get in touch soon!
    vsuc_fltilesrefresh_TrophyIcon Developmental Editing
    Book Editing
    Creative Writing
    Ghostwriting
    Memoir Writing
    Children's Writing
    Autobiography
    Poetry
    Writing
    Storytelling
    Story Editing
    Editing & Proofreading
    Rhyme Scheme
  • $55 hourly
    * Creative writer and editor specialising in fiction, music and self-help. * Member of the International Association of Professional Writers and Editors. * Award-winning author of eight novels, published both independently and by London's Lume Books. * Creative writing tutor and workshop facilitator.
    vsuc_fltilesrefresh_TrophyIcon Developmental Editing
    Australian English Dialect
    Copy Editing
    Fiction Writing
    Copywriting
    Writing
    Piano
    Creative Writing
    Proofreading
    Music Engraving
  • $40 hourly
    Benefit from over a decade of wide experience in EDITING and WRITING! TO MEET YOUR NEEDS: *All levels of editing - developmental, evaluation, content, line, copyediting, proofreading *Editing all genres, including works for both children and adults *Writing for children and adults - blogs, educational materials, articles, stories, and books TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE FOLLOWING: *Ongoing experience with evaluating the writing of others gained as an active member of multiple critique groups *Knowledge of the market gained through memberships in several organizations for writers: Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI), Sisters in Crime, and the Upper Peninsula Publishers & Authors Association (UPPAA) *College background, including a bachelor's degree, teaching certification, and graduate work towards a master's degree in education
    vsuc_fltilesrefresh_TrophyIcon Developmental Editing
    Fiction
    Nonfiction
    Creative Writing
    Canadian English Dialect
    British English Dialect
    Blog Writing
    Beta Reading
    Editing & Proofreading
    Australian English Dialect
    Track Changes
    US English Dialect
    Copy Editing
  • $20 hourly
    Most of my writing experience is focused on research based academic writing, specifically within the social sciences field. I am well versed in several styles of writing (MLA, APA, etc.). I offer proofreading/editing services focused on maintaining SEO optimization for blog posts, ads, press releases, etc. I am also able to work within various visual arts to compliment writing with illustrations, book covers, and the like.
    vsuc_fltilesrefresh_TrophyIcon Developmental Editing
    Article
    Writing
    Blog Writing
    Microsoft Word
    Management Skills
    Website Content
    Drawing
    Copy Editing
    Proofreading
    Microsoft Excel
    Website Redesign
  • $65 hourly
    Having served as a professional editor and writer for more than ten years now, working with both fiction and nonfiction, my passion revolves around helping authors and publishers find the full potential of their manuscripts. My work is loosely split between working with indie authors and publishers, and so I also do work on blurbs, synopses, and queries, but only for works that I've edited or been directly involved in as a writing coach/consultant. In all tasks, though, I have an excellent eye for detail, and with my extended background as a writer and teacher, I can be depended upon to offer professional guidance at every turn, eliminate errors and inconsistencies, and meet all deadlines. By turns, I work as a writing coach, editor, and ghostwriter, matching my talents to my clients' needs. In each of these roles, I only take on projects that suit my skills--so, if you ask me to edit or write in a genre where I have no experience, I'll be the first to tell you I'm not your ideal fit. But, when I do take on a project, you can be sure that it will become a top priority and receive the attention and skill it deserves. When it comes to nonfiction, I'm got a varied background that crosses a variety of disciplines and types of writing. I've edited and copyedited a number of dissertations and academic articles within the humanities and sciences, and I've developed a close familiarity with details of grammar and citation styles (as I've worked as both a freelance copyeditor and as the assistant director of a university-level writing center). That said, academic work is no longer my focus, and you'll more often find me working on memoirs, self-help and business books, books related to health and wellness, and books that have some intersection with social justice, science/nature, current events, or culture. I've also worked on a number of books related to travel and history, as well as philosophy. In fiction, I have experience in various genres, including (but not limited to): science fiction, fantasy, speculative fiction, horror, suspense/thrillers, mystery, romance (of various subgenres, but especially paranormal, suspense, billionaire, dark, and contemporary), historical fiction, and literary fiction. My experience focuses on adult and YA material--I'm not the best fit for middle grade or children's books. Regarding editing, specifically: I've been freelancing on a full-time basis since August of 2014, and I love keeping an eclectic calendar so that I always have a fresh eye for each new manuscript. I track all work via Word's Track Changes feature, using the comments feature for feedback as needed. In terms of writing, I hire out as a fixer just as often as a writer--this means that I work through a complete novel, elevating the writing and 'fixing' issues that come up in relation to the story, character, pacing, genre, etc. Essentially, hiring me as a 'fixer' means that you've got a complete draft, and it's in decent shape, but you know it needs work and want it to reach the next level without your being directly involved in the revision. Many of my 'fixing' jobs come to me because an author needs to adjust word count up or down significantly, but is at a loss for how to do so without detracting from a project's quality or bringing in outside help. With nonfiction, I need to be 100% sure that I'm the right fit for a project before taking it on, so engaging in a detailed conversation ahead of hiring is always a must. My work in ghostwriting fiction has been focused around paranormals, suspense, romance, horror, SFF, and nonfiction, and I only hire out as a ghostwriter for adult work (vs YA). Lastly, I often serve as a writing coach, helping authors complete their first full manuscript or finish a project that's been languishing on their desktop for years. I take an immense amount of pride in my track record for helping first-time writers succeed as writers, and limit the number of coaching clients I take on at any given time in order to make sure I'm available on short-notice for meetings, crises, and content reviews/edits. This process looks different for every client and project, as I tailor my approach to each individual and job, so please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about how it might best work for you.
    vsuc_fltilesrefresh_TrophyIcon Developmental Editing
    Editing & Proofreading
    Creative Writing
    Fiction Writing
    Academic Writing
    Book Writing
    Proofreading
    Ghostwriting
    Content Editing
    Poetry
    Novel
    Writing
    Line Editing
    Copy Editing
  • $45 hourly
    I have been editing professionally for 30 years and writing in various capacities for nearly 40 years. I offer full-range editorial services to fiction writers, particularly first-time novelists, but I am willing to help with nearly any creative writing project. I provide developmental editing, light and heavy line editing, copyediting, as well as story development, writing coaching, and alpha/beta reading. My developmental editing, alpha/beta reading, and story deverlopment are frank and detailed, intended to improve a writer's skills and chances of holding an agent's or publisher's attention. Story development involves brainstorming at any point in the writing process to develop existing ideas, generate new ideas, or unblock creativity. My rate is negotiable. I am happy to take on projects for fixed rates, and I can work in any genre.
    vsuc_fltilesrefresh_TrophyIcon Developmental Editing
    Editing & Proofreading
    Fiction Writing
    Writing
    Proofreading
    Book Editing
    Line Editing
    Copy Editing
    Ghostwriting
    Creative Writing
  • $36 hourly
    I am a top rated editor and it's my job to help you connect with your reader. I enjoy eliminating errors and producing a compelling, clean copy. My editing skills apply to a broad range of writing. I have edited fiction (action thriller novels), history (Slavery in Lowcountry South Carolina), religion (biblical teaching), engineering (internet security), business ( internet marketing), self-help (Living with Bell's Palsy), web pages (product marketing) and academic work (political science dissertation). My writing, publishing and editing experience includes over eight years as a freelance copy editor and proofreader and over ten years producing engineering documentation at Xerox . Contact me to make your books, academic papers or web pages a delight for your readers.
    vsuc_fltilesrefresh_TrophyIcon Developmental Editing
    Microsoft Office
    Chicago Manual of Style
    Proofreading
    Editing & Proofreading
    English
    Copy Editing
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Developmental Editor Hiring Guide

Hiring a developmental editor can help you refine and shape your manuscript, ensuring that it meets your creative and structural goals. Whether you're working on a novel, nonfiction book, or academic work, this guide will help you understand the role of a developmental editor and how to hire one for your needs.

What does a developmental editor do?

A developmental editor works closely with authors to improve the structure, content, and overall flow of a manuscript. They focus on big-picture elements like plot, character development, pacing, themes, and organization. Unlike copyediting, which focuses on grammar and punctuation, developmental editing helps ensure that the content is cohesive, logical, and engaging.

Developmental editors provide feedback on how to strengthen a manuscript's structure and offer suggestions on how to improve key elements like narrative arcs, tone, and audience engagement.

Benefits of hiring a developmental editor

Hiring a professional developmental editor ensures that your manuscript is polished and ready for publication. Their expertise in storytelling, structure, and reader engagement can help elevate your work and make it more compelling.

  • Improved structure. Editors help organize your manuscript for better flow and coherence, ensuring that ideas or narratives are presented effectively.
  • Enhanced character and plot development. A developmental editor identifies areas where characters or storylines could be deepened or refined.
  • Objective feedback. Editors provide an outside perspective on your work, offering insights into areas that need improvement.
  • Audience engagement. Editors help ensure your work resonates with your target audience and aligns with genre expectations.
  • Time-saving. A professional editor helps streamline the revision process, saving you time and guiding you through major revisions.

How to hire developmental editors

Hiring a developmental editor on Upwork is easy. Follow these steps to find the right professional for your manuscript:

  • Sign up. Create a Client account on Upwork to begin.
  • Post a job. Write a detailed job post outlining your manuscript type, word count, and what kind of feedback or revisions you’re seeking. For more, see this guide on how to post a job.
  • Shortlist talent. Review proposals from developmental editors with experience in your genre or subject matter.
  • Interview candidates. Ask about their editing approach, experience with similar manuscripts, and how they provide feedback.
  • Hire talent. Choose the best developmental editor for your needs and hire them through Upwork’s secure platform.

For more details on the hiring process, see this guide on how to hire freelancers.

How to write a developmental editor job post

Writing a clear job post will help attract qualified developmental editors. Follow these steps to create one:

  • Job title. Clearly state that you’re seeking a “Developmental Editor.”
  • Job description. Include details about your manuscript, its genre or subject, and what kind of developmental feedback or guidance you need (e.g., plot development, character growth).
  • Required skills. Mention relevant skills, such as experience editing in your genre, storytelling expertise, and the ability to provide constructive feedback.
  • Timeline. Specify any deadlines for completing edits or revisions.
  • Budget. Provide a clear budget based on the length of the manuscript and the editor’s experience.

Common developmental editor services

Developmental editors handle a variety of tasks to improve the overall content and structure of a manuscript. Some common responsibilities include:

  • Assessing manuscript structure. Reviewing the overall organization and flow to ensure that ideas or narratives are presented logically and clearly.
  • Improving character and plot development. Providing feedback on character arcs, plot progression, pacing, and emotional engagement.
  • Identifying themes and messages. Ensuring that the themes and central ideas of the manuscript are clear and well-developed.
  • Offering revision suggestions. Suggesting specific changes or improvements to enhance the manuscript’s clarity, impact, and coherence.
  • Strengthening audience engagement. Providing guidance on how to make the manuscript more compelling for its intended readers.

Industries hiring developmental editors

Developmental editors are hired across various industries, especially in the publishing, academic, and creative sectors. Some common industries include:

  • Publishing. Authors working on fiction or nonfiction books hire developmental editors to refine their manuscripts for publication.
  • Academia. Scholars writing dissertations, theses, or academic papers often hire developmental editors to improve clarity, structure, and argumentation.
  • Self-publishing. Independent authors hire developmental editors to ensure their books are well-developed before self-publishing.
  • Corporate writing. Businesses and organizations hire editors to help develop white papers, case studies, or industry reports.
  • Screenwriting. Screenwriters may hire developmental editors to help refine scripts, develop characters, and improve plot structure.

FAQ

How is developmental editing different from copyediting?

Developmental editing focuses on big-picture elements such as plot, structure, character development, and pacing. Copyediting, on the other hand, focuses on correcting grammar, punctuation, and style.

Can a developmental editor help with both fiction and nonfiction?

Yes, developmental editors work on both fiction and nonfiction projects, tailoring their feedback to the specific needs of the genre or subject matter.

How long does developmental editing take?

The timeline depends on the length and complexity of the manuscript, as well as the depth of feedback required. A standard novel may take a few weeks, while more complex projects could take longer.

Should I hire a developmental editor before or after writing my first draft?

It’s often best to hire a developmental editor after completing your first draft. However, some authors prefer to bring in an editor earlier to help shape the structure or direction of the manuscript.

How do developmental editors provide feedback?

Most developmental editors provide written feedback in the form of notes, a detailed editorial letter, or comments within the manuscript itself. They may also offer follow-up discussions to clarify suggestions.

Hire a developmental editor on Upwork

Ready to find a qualified developmental editor to help shape your manuscript? Sign up for Upwork and post a job to connect with experienced editors who can guide your project through revisions and ensure your work is ready for publication.

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