STEFANIE NEWELL
DEVELOPMENTAL EDITOR
Developmental Editing for Nonfiction Manuscripts
Ready to strengthen your nonfiction manuscript and make sure it’s headed in the right direction?
Whether your manuscript is still in progress or nearly complete, developmental editing can help you identify big-picture issues before you move forward with your next revision.
What Is Developmental Editing?
Developmental editing looks at how well your book works as a whole. Unlike copyediting, which focuses on grammar and punctuation, developmental editing examines the overall structure, organization, clarity, pacing, and effectiveness of your manuscript.
The goal is to identify what’s working, what needs improvement, and what may need further development so you can approach your next revision with clarity and confidence.
What I Review in Your Manuscript
My developmental editing focuses on essential elements such as structure, pacing, tone, clarity, organization, and audience fit. I also consider whether your content supports your overall goals and resonates with the readers you’re trying to reach.
You’ll receive a comprehensive written assessment and a markup of your manuscript that highlights its strengths, identifies areas for improvement, and gives you clear guidance on what to revise next.
With over 17 years of industry experience, 15+ published books, and a track record as an Amazon Bestseller, I offer a level of expertise that sets me apart. My impact is reflected in hundreds of writers I’ve guided toward successful publication and 6.5 million YouTube views where I share invaluable writing and publishing tips.
Let’s collaborate to transform your non-fiction manuscript into a standout book that achieves your publishing goals!
Frequently Asked Questions About Developmental Editing
Does developmental editing include fixing grammar, spelling, or punctuation?
No, developmental editing focuses on big-picture elements like structure, pacing, and content flow. It doesn’t cover spelling, grammar, punctuation, or rewrites. If you need help with those areas, copy editing, line editing, or proofreading services are recommended after developmental editing.
What genres do you provide developmental editing for?
Any non-fiction genre. However, I primarily work with memoirs, self-help, and business-related books. I’ve chosen these non-fiction genres because they are genres where I can provide the most value. Please include your genre in the application below.
What is the minimum word count?
In order to provide my clients with value, the minimum word count for developmental editing is 10,000 words. With that being said, under certain circumstances, I will consider smaller word counts.
How long does the process take?
Depending on my schedule and your book’s word count, it can take anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks.
Will you do rewrites?
No, developmental editors do not write or rewrite anything for authors. As a developmental editor I advise how best to rework your project in order to deliver clear content. I specialize in examining the overall structure and can help with the organization of the content. I help authors fill in blanks and eliminate repetitions. I may also suggest that the chapters be rearranged. My goal as your developmental editor is to provide you with feedback on how you can improve your writing. I will make suggestions on what needs to be improved, however, you will handle rewrites if there are any needed.
What if my manuscript isn't started yet?
If you haven’t started writing, coaching may be the better starting point. Learn about writing coaching for first-time authors.
How The Process Works
SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION
Complete the form below for a custom quote based on your manuscript’s word count.
RECEIVE EXPERT FEEDBACK
Depending on your word count, in 2-6 weeks, you’ll get two documents: a manuscript markup with inline feedback and an editorial assessment outlining strengths and areas for improvement.
REVISE AND IMPROVE
Use the detailed feedback to enhance your book, ensuring it meets your goals.
What My Clients Are Saying
I enjoyed my interaction with Stefanie and found her to be attentive and professional. She really got me started in the right direction! She dots all the “I’s” and crosses all the “T’s” for sure!
Stefanie was amazing! She assisted me through the process of completing my book and gave me a whole new perspective on the art of writing.
I came across Stefanie on her YouTube channel after getting great tips from her on writing I decided to contact her for further guidance in writing my first book. I got started with the free 30-minute consultation that she offers, an excellent opportunity where I learned what I needed to do first. It was only my first draft and being a first-time writer I thought I could go into editing and publishing. Stefanie advised me on the steps that I needed to accomplish before going into editing and publishing. We decided to start with developmental editing. It’s an essential first step as a writer because it gave me (the writer) ideas and areas that I can improve my manuscript. She gave me great feedback on my manuscript which I know will improve my book. Stefanie is looking to help above all else, she worked with me and offered services that were within my budget and I am so grateful. I know I am on the right track with my book because of working with Stefanie and I have my go-to person for all my writing projects and even much more. Thank you, Stefanie.
Gosh Stefanie! So after I paid for your service I was going back and forth if I should’ve just skipped that part. I haven’t finished reading all your suggestions but coming from someone who thought their English writing skills were immaculate, you truly humbled me!! Everything I’ve read so far you were spot on. Your suggestions remind me of my senior year in high school English teacher. I didn’t like her lol but I must say she was probably the best teacher I’ve ever had. Thank you so much for keeping it 100% real with the suggestions. I got some work to do frfr!! Thank you again and I’ll definitely be talking to you soon….you really know your stuff!! Well worth the money paid…gosh lol. I’m trying not to feel overwhelmed lol. I thought you would have like 5 to 10 suggestions tops lol. Thank you so much…I’ve been humbled but I’m excited as well for the challenge!
Get Your Free Developmental Editing Quote
Request a free developmental editing quote to find out how I can help you improve your manuscript and prepare for your next revision.