Few argue that writing a novel is a huge undertaking, requiring dedication, creativity, and attention to detail. While that may be the beginning, it is not the whole process. Behind every successful novel, there’s often a team of editors who help the author refine and polish the manuscript. Each editor plays a crucial role in shaping the final product, from developmental editing to proofreading. The key word here is shaping. An editor’s job is not to change the author’s voice or the vision for the book but to help the author bring their novel to life.
The Roles of Editors in Novel Writing
- Developmental Editor
The developmental editor is at the foundation of novel writing. They focus on the big-picture aspects of the manuscript, such as plot structure, character development, pacing, and overall coherence. They provide insightful feedback and guidance to help the author enhance the storyline and to improve its structure. They give notes on strengthening character arcs and ensuring the narrative flows smoothly from beginning to end. In other words, they find problems and offer solutions.
When to hire: Anytime after completing the first draft, but best after the manuscript is polished to the best of your ability.
Note: Ask two or three people to read your manuscript before submitting it to an editor so you can catch any apparent problems.
- Content Editor
For novels with specialized subject matter or historical context, a content editor may be enlisted to provide expertise in the relevant field. The editor ensures accuracy and authenticity in portraying cultural nuances, historical events, or technical details. They help the author maintain credibility and integrity in their storytelling while adding depth and richness to the narrative.
When to hire: After developmental editing and before line editing.
- Line Editor
Once the storyline is solidified, the manuscript undergoes scrutiny from the line editor. This editor delves into the finer details of the writing, examining sentence structure, grammar, syntax, and word choice. They aim to enhance the prose’s clarity, coherence, and readability while maintaining the author’s unique voice.
When to hire: Either after developmental editing or in conjunction with it.
- Copy Editor
With the narrative polished, the manuscript moves into the hands of the copy editor. This editor focuses on the technical aspects of the writing, including spelling, punctuation, grammar, and consistency in style and formatting. They ensure that the manuscript adheres to industry standards and is free from errors that could detract from the reader’s experience.
When to hire: After the manuscript has undergone developmental and line editing and has been refined.
- Proofreader
As the novel nears completion, a proofreader performs a final review to catch any lingering errors before publication. The editor scans the manuscript for typos, misspellings, punctuation errors, and formatting inconsistencies. Their keen attention to detail ensures the novel is polished to perfection and ready for its debut.
In conclusion, the journey from manuscript to published novel is a collaborative effort involving a diverse team of editors, each contributing their expertise to refine and elevate the author’s vision. From shaping the storyline to perfecting the prose, editors play a pivotal role in transforming a raw manuscript into a literary masterpiece.
When to hire: The final stage after all previous corrections have been made.
NOTE: Read the manuscript out loud before sending it to the proofreader. Errors have a way of popping off the page when giving it a verbal read-through.
