Course Description

If you’re drawn to publishing because you’d love to help authors shape successful manuscripts—or if your job is leading you to engage with content at a level beyond your comfort zone—then learning about the empathetic, collaborative guidance of developmental editing may be for you. Offering real-world, nuts-and-bolts advice and comprehensive handouts, this introductory workshop will help you understand the nature and scope of developmental editing and give you the opportunity to practice on a nonfiction manuscript both in and outside of class.

Through discussion and hands-on exercises, we’ll cover

• Understanding the keys to successful developmental editing
• Analyzing and articulating a manuscript’s needs
• Translating editorial goals and vision into a realistic, step-by-step plan for revision
• Creating harmonious, productive relationships with authors
• Crafting effective author comments and editorial letters
• Navigating interactions among developmental editor, author, and publisher

While the workshop materials will emphasize nonfiction books, skills gained will apply to a wide range of content.

Instructor Bio

Melissa Stein has worked in publishing for more than 20 years. She performs project management, copywriting, and all levels of editing for publishers, packagers, corporations, advertising agencies, nonprofit organizations, and independent authors. She has taught editing for Editcetera and UC Berkeley Extension and writing at UC Davis, leads customized on-site workshops, and provides one-on-one tutoring.