If you’re close to completing the first draft of your book manuscript, you may know the many complex decisions involved in revisions. You may be wondering how to refine your work to make it the best it can be. At this point, many authors hire a professional editor. Professional editing can easily make or break your chances of successful (self-)publication. A book full of errors will certainly not impress readers. Before taking this step, there are quite a few things you can do to improve your writing on your own. I have previously shared some tips on self-editing your writing. This post outlines the possibilities of developmental self-editing and how to use them.
What is developmental self-editing and why should I do it?
Developmental editing constitutes the first stage of editing among different types of editing. Understanding the purpose and scope of each type is important before you start. In a nutshell, developmental editing focuses on the big picture of your manuscript. It assesses the plot structure and pacing, events and characters, and the overall reading experience. It is such a crucial step because it ensures that your manuscript has a solid foundation before you move on. Learning how to use some basic developmental self-editing skills can improve your awareness and writing skills. If done well, it can potentially reduce costs because you might require less in-depth revision when working with a professional editor afterwards. However, the major drawback of developmental self-editing is that you are likely less objective and critical of your own work than an experienced outsider.
So, if you’d like to try out developmental self-editing, the tips below might help you.
Understand your genre
Developmental editing is a multifaceted process that targets the mechanics of your manuscript. Therefore, it is important to understand the conventions of the genre in which you are writing. A sound understanding of your genre and its target audience gives you a solid framework in relation to which you can revise your writing. You can make a list of characteristic elements to keep in mind. You can also think about whether your book wants to align with these elements or challenge them. If it wants to subvert, you should think about why and how. You could also research well-known texts in your genre and identify which aspects make them successful.
Research plot structures
Before you start making revisions, familiarise yourself with different plot structures. In the most basic terms, the key features of a narrative include an introduction, a conflict that develops tension, a climax, and a resolution. Nevertheless, each type of narrative structure incorporates these elements differently. Research the plot structures (in relation to your genre) and select the most suitable one. Then you can draft an overview of how your plot elements align and/or deviate from this structure. This will allow you to assess the proportions of basic narrative elements in your overall manuscript.
Review your theme
In a nutshell, a theme is the main idea within a piece of writing. You can implement a theme through elements such as the plot, the characters, the settings, and the events. Having a theme is important as it creates the overall meaning and message of your narrative. Various narrative elements can cohere through a carefully planned theme. This ensures that your manuscript is not just a series of events with no overarching message and depth. To gain a better understanding, you can start by researching typical themes in literature. Then define your own message and ask yourself how your manuscript conveys it through various narrative elements. Keep in mind that themes are often implied and hidden. Weaving a theme through your writing and letting the reader figure out its meaning may keep them more engaged.
Modify your pacing
Pacing refers to the speed at which a narrative progresses for the reader. Balanced pacing ensures that the reader remains engaged without feeling bored or rushed. It also affects whether plot elements read as an integrated narrative without any ruptures. You can then align your narrative with a selected plot structure. You could also outline the narrated time and the speed at which each scene and chapter reveal information to the reader. Doing so opens another level at which you can adjust the proportions of your narrative. This will modify the reading experience.
If your pacing needs improvement, try varying the length of paragraphs, scenes, and chapters. Experiment with the level of detail used in a particular scene. Highly detailed descriptions can slow down the pace, while less detail may accelerate it. You can also rethink your use of events and transitions in different chapters. Experiences are of varying importance to your characters. Not everything needs to be featured as an event in the plot. Sometimes a character can just reflect on an experience instead. This step can also help with character building.
Tie up loose ends
‘Loose ends’ are plot holes, contradictions, and irrelevant information on both the plot and character levels. Ideally, you should plan out your plot structure and character traits before you start writing. However, it is important to revisit this step at a later stage. Make a detailed overview of all the events and scenes in your manuscript and assess whether each part is relevant and integrated. Ask yourself if and how each element advances the narrative. If you detect an issue, consider possible options for tweaking it. Alternatively, you might want to discard certain parts.
Just like real humans, fictional characters have personalities and depth. Conflicting motivations and actions can perhaps drive the narrative at times. Everything the reader learns about a character should be relevant and constructive. If we read about a character’s past, a hobby, or their idiosyncrasies, it should influence their thoughts and actions to some degree. You can use a character overview to assess whether all given information contributes to a well-rounded character.
Get started
Now you know that developmental editing is a complex process and requires a lot of work. Thorough research on genre and key terms in literary theory may help you understand narrative elements better. If you invest the time and effort, you could improve your manuscript and reduce the extent of professional editing needed.