Our Top 24 Developmental Editing Service Professionals

Let a ServiceScape Developmental Editor Enhance Your Manuscript Today

Are you an author yearning to share your unique voice, yet struggling to make your manuscript into a masterpiece? We specialize in offering top-tier developmental editing services that will transform your draft from a rough diamond into a polished gem.

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Proudly Trusted By:

Cornell UniversityBASFDuke UniversityUniversity of Wisconsin–MadisonUniversité du Québec à MontréalUniversity of Nantes
XpertEditor

1. XpertEditor

[Elite]
7,429 Client Reviews
275,490 Pages Edited

M.A. in TESOL Education from the University of North Carolina

Starting at $9.95 USD per page

WriteWatchman

2. WriteWatchman

[Elite]
4,689 Client Reviews
139,951 Pages Edited

Professor at Cincinnati State University

Starting at $9.50 USD per page

EditrixJD

3. EditrixJD

[Elite]
2,404 Client Reviews
104,073 Pages Edited

Writer at PBS

Starting at $9.45 USD per page

ProseTechnician

4. ProseTechnician

[Elite]
2,259 Client Reviews
85,894 Pages Edited

Ph.D. in English from the University of Nebraska

Starting at $5.95 USD per page

LexEditor

5. LexEditor

[Elite]
2,265 Client Reviews
54,118 Pages Edited

J.D. from the University of Maine School of Law

Starting at $11.00 USD per page

DoctorWord

6. DoctorWord

[Elite]
2,358 Client Reviews
51,578 Pages Edited

Copy Editor at Intergroup Japan

Starting at $9.88 USD per page

ErrorProof

7. ErrorProof

[Elite]
821 Client Reviews
29,318 Pages Edited

Director at Aetna

Starting at $7.00 USD per page

jmelton

8. jmelton

[Elite]
474 Client Reviews
23,437 Pages Edited

Ph.D. in Social Psychology from the University of Illinois

Starting at $8.50 USD per page

S.Edwards

9. S.Edwards

[Elite]
604 Client Reviews
16,652 Pages Edited

J.D. from Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law

Starting at $15.50 USD per page

EditingWithExperience

10. EditingWithExperience

[Elite]
282 Client Reviews
14,364 Pages Edited

Editor at Elsevier Inc.

Starting at $5.95 USD per page

YourProfessor

11. YourProfessor


4,522 Client Reviews
242,605 Pages Edited

Ph.D. in History from the University of Virginia

Starting at $8.95 USD per page

AcadConsult

12. AcadConsult


1,327 Client Reviews
81,412 Pages Edited

Ph.D. in Psychology from the University of Rhode Island

Starting at $9.99 USD per page

EMThompson

13. EMThompson


435 Client Reviews
22,677 Pages Edited

M.A. in Asian Studies from UC Berkeley

Starting at $5.95 USD per page

bszpak

14. bszpak


186 Client Reviews
13,539 Pages Edited

Ph.D. in History from the University of Cambridge

Starting at $4.95 USD per page

WriteOn

15. WriteOn


324 Client Reviews
9,974 Pages Edited

B.A. in English from the University of North Carolina

Starting at $22.00 USD per page

ChipperEditor

16. ChipperEditor


185 Client Reviews
5,865 Pages Edited

M.A. in English from McMaster University

Starting at $8.00 USD per page

EditingExcellence

17. EditingExcellence


186 Client Reviews
4,686 Pages Edited

Ph.D. in Music History from the University of Chicago

Starting at $4.95 USD per page

BioEditorPhD

18. BioEditorPhD


119 Client Reviews
3,994 Pages Edited

Ph.D. in Cellular and Molecular Pathology from the University of California

Starting at $6.95 USD per page

Keith2314

19. Keith2314


103 Client Reviews
2,991 Pages Edited

M.A. in Linguistics from Northeastern Illinois University

Starting at $4.95 USD per page

ArtemisInk

20. ArtemisInk


34 Client Reviews
1,880 Pages Edited

M.A. in Childhood Education from Hunter College

Starting at $15.25 USD per page

WordHelper

21. WordHelper


29 Client Reviews
780 Pages Edited

Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Hawaii

Starting at $10.50 USD per page

EditorEnRoute

22. EditorEnRoute


21 Client Reviews
543 Pages Edited

Copy Editor at Nella Media Group

Starting at $12.00 USD per page

Paula_G

23. Paula_G


535 Pages Edited

B.S. in Communications from California State Polytechnic University

Starting at $8.50 USD per page

PixelPerfectEdit(PPE)

24. PixelPerfectEdit(PPE)


286 Pages Edited

Lecturer at the University of Pretoria

Starting at $7.99 USD per page

Browse More Developmental EditorsRated 4.949 Out of 5 Stars Based on 31,069 Reviews
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What We Bring to the Table

ServiceScape is built on 24 years worth of experience, working on over 340,000 projects with over 98,000 clients. Join the thousands of people who have chosen ServiceScape to find the best and brightest talent.

4.910 out of 5 Stars

125,690 Rated Projects

What makes a good developmental editor?

What makes an editor the right fit for your developmental editing project? Qualifications are one key component, but in most cases a résumé is just the tip of the iceberg. At ServiceScape, our developmental editors are not only professionals with good qualifications who can correct errors in your book. They are also project partners who are happy to work with you every step of the way.

Developmental editor editing a book

We specialize in offering top-tier developmental editing services. Your developmental editing partner will consult with you regarding plot development, character creation, and narrative structure. They will respond to your needs, answer every question, and brainstorm with you to approach problems from new angles. They are ahead of the curve in understanding what is expected from your manuscript, and they will apply their knowledge of industry standards to ensure your book is ready for publication.

Use ServiceScape to find the best developmental editing talent

A developmental editor making corrections

With ServiceScape, you can browse profiles, ratings, and reviews to find the very best professional developmental editor for your project. To get a better sense of what our editors can offer, you can see what types of writing they have edited in the past and read samples of edited materials within their portfolios. Many of our editors have been rated hundreds or even thousands of times. With their proven track record and performance history, you can be confident that your chosen developmental editor will be your perfect partner in perfecting your manuscript for publication.

In addition, our directory of editors is divided into more than 15 developmental subdisciplines. Whether your book is a nonfiction manuscript, an adventure novel, or a collection of short stories, it is easy to navigate our pool of editing talent to find the right editor with the right skill set for your project. We also have editors who specialize in several style manuals, including the Chicago Manual of Style. Just choose your style guide requirement within our directory, and you will be presented with editors who specialize in that style.

Your pathway to the perfect prose

Developmental editing with a red pen

With ServiceScape, you’re not just buying an editing service; you’re investing in your story's potential and in your growth as an author. Our highly skilled and experienced developmental editors dive deep into the heart of your manuscript. We identify strengths, flag weaknesses, and work with you to bring your story to life in the most compelling way possible.

Each project is unique, a reflection of the author's distinct vision. Therefore, our editors adopt a personalized approach, focusing on the intricate details of your story’s architecture. We do more than check for errors; we delve into the DNA of your narrative. We examine pacing, plot consistency, characterization, themes, and conflict, weaving together all these aspects to ensure your story is engaging, cohesive, and, most importantly, yours. Specifically, our developmental editors will provide:

  • Plot Assessment: Evaluate the plot structure for consistency, logic, and flow. This includes examining pacing, tension, and conflict to ensure they effectively drive the story forward.
  • Character analysis: Review character development for authenticity and growth. This includes assessing the motivations, actions, and dialogue of each character.
  • Setting and worldbuilding review: Examine the descriptions of settings and worldbuilding elements to ensure they contribute to the overall narrative.
  • Theme evaluation: Identify and analyze the themes and motifs in your manuscript to ensure they align with the story’s intent and will resonate with readers.
  • Narrative voice and point of view check: Assess the narrative voice and point of view for consistency and effectiveness in conveying the story.
  • Style and tone analysis: Review the style and tone of the manuscript to ensure they complement the story, genre, and target audience.
  • Continuity check: Look for any inconsistencies or discrepancies in the plot, character attributes, timeline, or other story elements.
  • Feedback and recommendations: Provide a detailed report or annotated manuscript with clear, constructive feedback and actionable recommendations for improving the manuscript.
  • Revision support: Offer guidance during the revision process based on the feedback and recommendations provided.
  • Consultation and collaboration: Act as a sounding board for your ideas and potential revisions and collaborate with you to enhance the manuscript while preserving your voice and vision.

Your editor will leave comments in the margins regarding any issues that require additional clarification, will highlight ambiguous or factually incorrect statements, and will ensure that everything is internally consistent and ready for publication. They may even suggest rewrites of sections of your manuscript if there could be a better way to get your point across. By the time we are finished, your writing will be enhanced so your voice as an author can shine through.

We offer open and easy communication

Teleconference with a developmental editor

At ServiceScape, we believe that authors and editors are co-creators. That's why our developmental editing process is built on a foundation of communication and collaboration. With ServiceScape, it is easy to communicate with your editor before, during, and after your developmental editing project.

If you have any questions regarding experience or expertise, the editor will answer them before you submit your manuscript, and any questions or issues that come up during the editing process will be addressed right away. Once you have received the edited version, you are welcome to continue communicating with your developmental editor to ask questions about the suggested changes, request input regarding further revisions, or share updates on your publishing status. You can even set up a teleconference call with your developmental editor to talk one-on-one regarding your project. With free and open communication, we guarantee that you and your developmental editor will be on the same page throughout the editing process. Our seasoned developmental editors offer insightful feedback and practical suggestions, but you, the author, will always have the final say. We ensure that your voice and your vision shine through!

Developmental editing that covers all of the bases

A developmental editor editing a manuscript

It's never too early or too late to seek a developmental edit. Whether you have a first draft in need of direction or a near-finished manuscript that lacks that final flourish, ServiceScape is here to assist. We understand how much time and effort you have dedicated to your manuscript. That’s why we offer our services at affordable rates, with a transparent pricing structure listed on each and every editor profile.

When you work with our developmental editors, we promise your manuscript will be protected. We respect your intellectual property, treating every project with the strictest confidentiality. We adhere to the industry’s best practices for data security, ensuring your work is safe in our hands.

Ready to set out on the journey to prose perfection? ServiceScape is eager to partner with you, offering the guidance and support necessary to elevate your story. Contact an editor today and let us help you reach the untapped potential of your manuscript. It's time to turn your storytelling dreams into published reality with ServiceScape's developmental editing services.

Frequently asked questions

How do I hire an editor?

You can hire an editor in just four steps:

  1. Browse our directory to find the editor you want to hire.
  2. Click the "View Profile" button to see additional information.
  3. From the profile page, click on the "Hire Me" button.
  4. Upload your writing and enter your project details.

You will have the option to either select a predefined service or create a custom project. If you select a predefined service, you can pay for your project immediately by using a credit card, U.S. bank transfer, or PayPal®. After your payment method has been approved, the editor will start working on the project as soon as possible and will deliver it by the due date you selected. If you select a custom project, the editor will provide you with a service proposal that will have a unique price for the unique service you require.

Can I have a free sample?

Sure! Many ServiceScape editors provide free samples. You can submit a free sample request by doing the following:

  1. Browse our directory to find an editor you'd like to ask for a free sample.
  2. Click the "View Profile" button to see additional information.
  3. From the profile page, click on the "Free Sample" button.
  4. Upload your writing and enter your project details.

If the editor accepts your free sample request, you will receive the sample edited version within a couple of days.

How do I contact an editor?

To contact an editor about your project, just do the following:

  1. Browse our directory to find the editor you'd like to contact.
  2. Click the "View Profile" button to see additional information.
  3. From the profile page, click on the "Send Message" button.
  4. Write and send your message.

We will email you a notification as soon as your editor replies to your message.

How do I set up a teleconference with an editor?

If you would like to speak with an editor directly, just do the following:

  1. Browse our directory to find an editor you'd like to speak with on a teleconference call.
  2. Click the "View Profile" button to see additional information.
  3. From the profile page, click on the "Teleconference" button.
  4. Enter the date and time you would like to have your discussion.

We will contact you right away about availability and set up the teleconference for all parties involved.

Where can I find ratings and reviews for editors?

You can find ratings and reviews from past clients within most editor profiles. Just find your editor and click on the "View Profile" button to see them. You can also read ServiceScape ratings and reviews on eKomi. In addition, ServiceScape has been featured in several publications and websites, including The Wall Street Journal, Los Angeles Times, UpWork, HuffPost, Indeed, and The Ladders.

Can I see examples of work the editors have done in the past?

Many editors have portfolios which feature their editing. Just find your editor and click on the "View Profile" button to view these edited versions.

Where can I find price and due date information?

A list of prices and due dates can be found within each editor's profile. Just find your editor and click on the "View Profile" button.

Do you provide editing certifications?

Yes, we provide editing certifications. Simply request the document when you hire an editor. When your project is delivered, you can download the editing certification by clicking on your project and clicking on the "Certification" button. These signed declarations certify that a document has been professionally edited by a ServiceScape editor.

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