Understanding the Types of Editing: A Guide for Authors
- Varun Prabhu
- Feb 16, 2016
- 4 min read
Updated: Apr 14
There’s often confusion among authors when it comes to the different types of editing. When visiting the website of an editor or editing service, many writers encounter a range of industry terms that can feel like jargon. As a result, they’re often unsure about what type of editing their manuscript truly needs.
While hiring multiple editors—developmental, line, copy, and proofreaders—can certainly lead to a well-rounded, polished manuscript (assuming you're working with skilled professionals), not every author requires the full suite of services.
Writers who are strong plotters, for instance, often excel at maintaining consistency in structure and storyline. That doesn’t mean they won’t benefit from story edits, but it does mean they may not need as intensive structural work as others. The key is recognizing that editing isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some manuscripts may require deep developmental input, while others may just need a sharp line edit or a final polish.
Understanding your own strengths and the needs of your manuscript is the first step in choosing the right kind of editorial support.
Understanding the Types of Editing: A Guide for Authors
As authors, it’s essential that we understand the different types of editing available to us. Knowing what each kind involves can help us make informed decisions about what our manuscript needs at any given stage. Below is a breakdown of the most common editorial services, along with clear, concise descriptions to help you navigate what can often feel like overwhelming industry terminology.
1. Line Editing
Line editing focuses on the author’s use of language at the sentence and paragraph level. Unlike copy editing, it doesn't concentrate on grammar or punctuation alone. Instead, it’s about enhancing the style, rhythm, and tone of your writing.
A line editor will look at:
Wordiness or awkward sentence structure
Overused words or repetitive phrasing
Inconsistent tone or atmosphere
Dialogue that doesn’t feel authentic
Sentences or paragraphs that lack clarity or emotional impact
The goal is to ensure the manuscript flows smoothly and engages the reader with precision and intent.
2. Copy Editing
Copy editing is more technical and detail-oriented. It usually follows a line edit and involves a deep check for:
Grammar and punctuation errors
Spelling and syntax issues
Style and formatting consistency (e.g., Oxford comma, spelling variants)
Clarity of meaning and sentence structure
Continuity in plot, setting, or character traits
While copy and line editing happen on the same level (the language of the manuscript), they serve different purposes. It's recommended that copy editing always comes after line editing to avoid overlapping changes or missing deeper stylistic issues.
3. Substantive Editing (Structural Editing)
Substantive editing, also known as structural editing, works at the scene level. It involves an analytical approach to the manuscript’s structure and flow.
A structural editor will evaluate:
Scene logic and effectiveness
Narrative coherence and subplot integration
Use of active vs. passive voice
"Show vs. tell" balance
Paragraph and sentence complexity
Clarity and development of ideas
This kind of editing may require rewriting entire scenes, restructuring chapters, or realigning narrative arcs for better impact and readability.
4. Developmental Editing
Developmental editing takes place at the macro level, often from the early drafting stages. It’s a collaborative process where the editor works closely with the author to shape the book’s overall vision.
A developmental editor helps with:
Big-picture structure and pacing
Chapter arrangement and transitions
Character development and arcs
Plot development and theme cohesion
Multiple round feedback across drafts
This is more like having a creative mentor and editor rolled into one, offering guidance across the manuscript’s lifecycle, from concept to completion.
5. Proofreading
Proofreading is the final check before publication. It is not editing in the traditional sense, but rather a meticulous review of the final manuscript to catch:
Typos and minor grammatical errors
Punctuation mistakes
Formatting inconsistencies
Typesetting or layout issues
Proofreading is best done by someone who hasn't previously edited the manuscript, offering a fresh pair of eyes before it goes into production or self-publishing.
Final Thoughts
As authors, we must take responsibility for the quality of our content. While editing and proofreading may feel optional, they are both critical steps toward producing a professional, polished manuscript. Many editors prefer not to proofread their own edited work, and for good reason. It's easy to miss small errors in something you’ve already read multiple times.
A combination of editorial support and proofreading ensures that what reaches your readers is your best work. And while marketing is important, quality content is what earns trust and sells books in the long run.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Do you have a completed draft in your hands? Feeling too close to your manuscript to be objective? Need a second pair of eyes to fine-tune your work?
Hire an editor. A good editor won’t just improve your book. They’ll help you see it more clearly. And that, more than anything, is worth the investment.
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