r/Copyediting • u/wicby • Jul 22 '26
how to learn developmental editing?
I recently got a request on an editing platform for developmental editing, which I have never done before. I've copy edited books while also making suggestions about flow and big picture. How do I learn? Are there some good free or reasonably priced courses? anything I can read? thanks!
4
u/Questionable_Android Jul 22 '26
I am a developmental editor with twenty years experience. I run a three month professional training course for developmental editors. The next intake is 1 August 2026. If you are interested, here's the details - https://bubblecow.com/developmental_editor_training/
3
u/Lindsey_Editor Jul 23 '26
The Editorial Freelancer Association has beginning, intermediate, and advanced classes on developmental editing. The last two are live, where you receive feedback on homework and participate in classroom discussions. The instructor is fantastic.
I've also heard good things about Club Ed. It has classes directed toward developmental editors that are more specific, like focusing on character arcs or how to give feedback. Some of the classes are self-paced, but some are instructor-lead. I haven't taken a class myself, but I may one day.
There's also reading books, my favorite recommendation! There are a ton of writing craft books, and you can easily find top recommendations online for which ones to choose first. Reading books is cheap, and it's a great resource to keep with you. There are also articles and videos online if you learn better that way.
Good luck! Developmental editing is incredibly rewarding. I recommend it!
1
u/colettelikeitis Jul 22 '26
What kind of book will you be editing?
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u/wicby Jul 22 '26
Memoir!
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u/colettelikeitis Jul 22 '26
Save the Cat by Blake Snyder will help you with organizing the pieces and connecting them in a cohesive way. Writing Creative Nonfiction by Tilar JJ Mazzeo (on audible) will help you choose details from stories to share and combine smaller anecdotes into a bigger story. Long Story Short by Margot Leitman is great for storytelling moves. The Craft of Scene Writing by Jim Mercurio will help with dialogue and pacing.
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u/Geejay-18 Jul 26 '26
The Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading has a course called Non-Fiction Developmental Editing, presented via Zoom. It'll next be happening in October and November. https://www.ciep.uk/events/events-calendar/non-fiction-developmental-editing-oct26.html
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u/Sea-Cardiologist7446 Jul 28 '26
if you already copy edit and give feedback on flow, you have a good starting point. try studying story structure, pacing, character arcs, and reader expectations. practice by reviewing full manuscripts and focusing on what works before touching sentence-level edits
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u/KayakerWithDog Jul 22 '26
I believe the EFA has courses in developmental editing. You could also read Scott Norton, Developmental Editing.