Where does an editorial assessment fits in the editing process, and do you even need one? Manuscript evaluation is a big-picture checkup for your manuscript. It focuses on story structure, pacing, and character development, giving you detailed feedback without rewriting your book. In this guide, we break down what an editorial assessment is, how it differs from developmental editing, when to get one, and what it can do for your story.

So, you’ve finished your draft (first off, congratulations!), and now you’re wondering: what’s next? If you’ve started looking into editing, you’ve probably seen the term developmental editing pop up. It’s the big-picture edit — the one that helps shape your story into its strongest, clearest, most engaging version.

But then comes the tricky question: how much does a developmental editor cost? Let’s break it down in plain English.

New writers often think they need either a 200-page outline or a lightning bolt of inspiration before starting their novel. Truth? Neither will save you if you don’t know which details actually matter. The trick is focusing on story turning points. Once you’ve got those in place, you won’t drown in filler scenes or endless worldbuilding.

My dear authors,

Think of this as a small cry from my editorial soul, though not a tragic wail, more like the dramatic sigh of someone who has just read their 400th “Should I write for the market or follow my heart?” post on the internet.

Over the last few months, I’ve had the exact same conversation with multiple clients and several well-meaning strangers in comment sections. And here’s the thing: if a handful of you are wondering about it, chances are there’s a whole crowd silently chewing their pens over the same dilemma.

Should you write for the market? Or should you write whatever your rebellious, art-loving heart desires?

Agents and editors receive hundreds of submissions a month. Most make a decision within the first page, often the first paragraph. Because they’ve learned to recognize something crucial:

A strong opening proves the writer understands storytelling.

Developmental editing, also called substantive, structural, or content editing, happens before copyediting or proofreading. It’s the stage where someone helps you shape the story itself: plot structure, narrative flow, character arcs, pacing, emotional stakes… all the big-picture stuff

Spoiler: Not Really

You’ve finished your draft. The adrenaline is still rushing. You’re thinking, “Do I really need a developmental editor? Can’t I just send it to a few trusted beta readers and get the same feedback?”