Line Editing vs. Developmental Editing: Which Type of Edit Does Your Manuscript Need?

So you’re done with your manuscript? Well, that is no small feat in itself, but in your publishing journey, that is just the beginning. The real transformation happens in the editing phase, but with so many options out there, it is natural to lose sight of what you truly want. Two types always stand out: line editing and developmental editing. While both are imperative, the purposes they serve are completely different. In this blog, we will break down the difference between the two so you can see for yourself what your manuscript needs most.

Table of Contents

1. What Is Developmental Editing?

2. What Is Line Editing?

3. Takeaway

4. Expert Insights

5. FAQs

6. Conclusion

   
   

What is developmental editing?

Think of your manuscript as a building. Then developmental editing is its architectural blueprint. Is the foundation strong enough? Is the plot structure and pacing up to the mark? Will the character arcs and growth keep readers hooked? This editing also encompasses whether the theme and the voice of the narrative are consistent throughout, and whether the worldbuilding and cohesion are consistent and effective.

Developmental editing is the process where the bare parts of your story are tested before anyone starts placing furniture. It raises questions: Is your opening strong enough to hook the reader? Or does it meander? Does the story have any pacing lulls that invite the reader to put it down? Do the characters change or progress in a way that feels believable, earned and the reader cares about? Are there enough stakes to maintain tension? Developmental editors often serve as your first audience, spotting reasons the story doesn't make sense, parts where the plot feels forced, and character choices that feel like they have little cause or motivation.

In short, developmental editing is not much about zooming in and scrutinizing each sentence, but about ensuring it flows naturally, your characters feel relatable, and the structure keeps readers reading until three a.m. It's like the strong backbone of your story, that if it isn't there, mere polishing won't save it.

What is line editing?

Now imagine that the building’s foundation is very strong—it could stand any natural calamity—but the insides of it creak. This is what happens to your manuscript if it does not go through line editing. It helps you zoom in and dissect your paragraphs and lines. It does not go as far as working with your plot and arcs, but it makes sure your theme and voice shine through the narrative.

Line editing is an editing stage that centres on the beating heart of your prose and sentences. When a line editor gets into your manuscript, they will 'hear' if adverbs are being overused, if you have incorrectly chosen words that weaken impact, or if the sentence structure has less fluidity when read aloud.

A good line edit is going to elevate a piece of decent writing to compelling, powerful prose and, even better to ensure that your writing matches the emotions you wanted your reader to feel. A line edit is going to fine-tune the words that are specifically chosen, how the writing flows, the natural rhythm of sentences and ensure the tone remains consistent. A line edit is not simply about grammar—that is what a copyeditor does. A line edit is all about ensuring that your sentences sing. When completed, it will allow your unique voice to sing rather than flatten, giving your manuscript life, substance, and polish.

Takeaway

There are various types of editing. A developmental edit is going to shape the essence of your story and a line edit is going to provide rhythm and resonance to your words. If you are serious about your manuscript, you will need to have both.

Expert Opinion

"A story without content structure collapses; a story without style will fade away."

— Lisa Cron, Story Genius

"Writers can believe they need fewer editors, but the truth is that they need the right editor, at the right time." 

— Stephen King, On Writing

"Line editing is like music; if I lose my beat, the reader stumbles." 

— Francine Prose, Reading Like a Writer

FAQs:

Q1. Do I need both developmental editing and line editing? 

Not at the same time. Many writers go through developmental editing first and then line editing once the content structure is established.

Q2. What's the difference between line editing and copy editing? 

Line editing focuses on style, beats and clarity; copy editing focuses on grammar, spelling, punctuation and consistency.

Q3. How long will developmental editing take? 

That will depend on the length and complexity, but generally speaking, a developmental edit will take 3-6 weeks for a good review.

Q4. Can one editor do developmental and line editing?

Many professionals are trained in both; however, it is often better to separate them for maximum focus. 

Q5. If I have a lesser budget, which editing should I do first? 

Developmental editing. If you have big-picture issues, you want to ensure you aren't polishing areas that will later be removed or reshaped.

Conclusion

Think about it this way: developmental editing ensures that your story has a heartbeat and line editing ensures that the rhythm is one readers will follow without stumbling. You may have a story that readers want to read, but it may lack focus without developmental editing. You may have a story that has focus, but lacks impact because you only finished with line editing. Both developmental and line editing are important. It just depends on the element at play. One is building the frame and the other is opening the curtains and painting the walls.

It can all feel overwhelming through a novice’s eyes. At Rolling Authors, we help writers at every step of their publishing journey—whether it’s tackling the big-picture edits or refining sentences to perfection. We’ve got you covered in every sphere, so reach out and let's give your manuscript the glow-up it truly deserves.

Written by Rolling Authors, a team of ghostwriters and editors helping entrepreneurs, leaders, and storytellers translate their ideas into compelling books that inspire and sell.