Sunday, November 5, 2017

Discovering A Career As A Developmental Editor

By Sharon Edwards


When it comes to professionals working in the area writing, there are many different positions, one of which is that of a Developmental Editor. In some cases, these individuals might work for an independent author. While in other cases, the individual might work for a publishing house, magazine or newspaper. In most all cases, the individual will be working as a consultant, contractor or freelancer.

In most cases, these type editors work on full length manuscripts. Materials which these individuals edit range from books of fiction, non-fiction, poetry and prose to educational materials. In addition, while the main focus is often to check for correct grammar and spelling, these individuals often need to look at the whole picture. In doing so, one needs to have the ability to determine whether a story, or other material can relate to an indented audience.

While there is currently a demand for these type editors, pay can often vary. As such, individuals looking to become involved in this type work might want to check the average pay rate or salary before accepting a position. It should be noted that those working as consultants are often the highest paid, followed closely by freelancers and contractors.

In many cases, authors may request an editor to review an entire manuscript. Whereas, in others, the editor may work along side the writer throughout the course of a project editing sections as completed. Whatever the case, it is important to make the writer aware of any errors with regards to grammar, misspellings or content as soon as possible. For, in some cases, a writer might be working against a deadline.

It is important that an individual working in this position enjoys reading. In most cases, editors need to put oneself in the place of an intended audience. For, while writers are often at the helm of the project, the goal is to create a publication which a reader can read and enjoy. As such, when reading as an intended audience, editors can assure this is the case.

While this work can often become monotonous and mundane, it is important to find ways to keep the flow interesting while reading and rereading the material. Most often, individuals can often research various aspects of a project during the process in order to avoid these issues. Whereas, it is also important to take breaks as needed so as to not miss any important errors which could easily be overlooked.

As the editor is often the last person to read the final product, it is essential that one do so paying close attention to detail. While checking for grammatical and spelling errors are important, it is also important to assure that the information flows while reading the final copy. For, writers also count on the editor to assure that the ebb and flow of a report or story makes sense.

In most cases, publishing houses or independent authors will return a final draft back to the editor. After which, the editor needs to check and review all aspects of the book or project. At this phase, it is important that all elements including front and back cover, title of contents, forewords and other materials be checked in entirety to assure everything is in the proper place and that all content is correct.




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