Professional Developmental Editing

Developmental Editing

Editorial Leadership for Manuscripts That Matter

Developmental Editing at TMM Publishing is a deep, strategic editorial process designed to strengthen the foundation of a manuscript, not just improve its wording. This service focuses on how the book is built, how ideas are developed, and how the message is carried from beginning to end with clarity, intention, and impact.

Unlike surface-level editing, developmental editing addresses the structural integrity of a manuscript. It examines the organization, pacing, progression of ideas, narrative flow, and overall coherence of the work. The goal is to ensure the manuscript is not only well written, but well constructed.

This is the stage where manuscripts are clarified, strengthened, and refined into books that can stand with confidence in the marketplace.

What Makes Developmental Editing at TMM Publishing Different

At TMM Publishing, developmental editing is not treated as a checklist or a mechanical pass through the text. It is editorial leadership.

Our approach is shaped by years of working with authors, messages, and manuscripts that carry weight, purpose, and responsibility. We do not simply suggest changes. We help authors understand why changes are needed and how to execute them with confidence.

This process is collaborative, direct, and intentional. It respects the author’s voice while challenging unclear thinking, weak structure, and misaligned sections that dilute the message.

What Developmental Editing Focuses On

Developmental Editing may address, but is not limited to:

• Overall structure and organization of the manuscript

• Logical flow and progression of ideas or narrative

• Clarity and consistency of the central message or argument

• Chapter purpose, order, and transitions

• Pacing and balance between sections

• Redundancy, gaps, or underdeveloped ideas

• Alignment between the intended audience and the manuscript’s execution

This level of editing ensures the book knows what it is, who it is for, and how it should move the reader from beginning to end.

What’s Included

• In-manuscript developmental edits and margin comments

• Chapter-level structural guidance

• Editorial notes explaining recommended changes

• Direction on what to revise, expand, remove, or reorganize

• Professional oversight that preserves the author’s voice while strengthening clarity

This service is designed to guide revision, not replace the author’s work.

Who This Service Is For

Developmental Editing is ideal for authors who:

• Have completed a full draft or near-complete manuscript

• Are willing to revise thoughtfully and engage the process

• Want honest, professional editorial feedback

• Care about clarity, impact, and long-term value

• Understand that strong books are built, not rushed

Important Scope & Guidelines

• Includes manuscripts up to 40,000 words

• Additional words are billed at $85 per 1,000 words

• Manuscripts over 80,000 words may require phased editing

• This service does not include proofreading or copyediting

• This service does not include rewriting or ghostwriting

• A completed Manuscript Diagnostic Review is required prior to developmental editing

Why This Stage Matters

Developmental editing is often the difference between a manuscript that exists and a book that works.

This stage ensures the book is structurally sound before moving forward into line editing, formatting, and publication. Skipping or rushing developmental editing often results in costly revisions later and a weaker final product.

At TMM Publishing, we treat this stage with the seriousness it deserves.

What to Expect After Purchase

After completing your purchase, you will receive a follow-up email from TMM Publishing within 1–2 business days with instructions to submit your manuscript and complete the intake process.

Once materials are received and word count is confirmed, your developmental edit will be scheduled.