What is a Manuscript Critique and When Do You Need One

If you’re a writer just starting your journey researching types of editing and you’re confused, don’t worry because you’re not alone. Even I, back when I was just a writer and before I submerged myself into becoming an editor, found myself confused about the distinctions between all the editing stages. And, to this day, explaining what a manuscript critique is, in contrast to a developmental edit, can come off a bit confusing.

But one of the easiest ways I’ve found to explain it is that a manuscript critique is a developmental edit lite. All the same things are looked at, all the same issues are discussed, just not as in-depth. Why not? Because sometimes writers are on a budget and this is the less costly option. Or sometimes writers have a very sturdy manuscript structure, but they know some things may still be amiss, and they’d like a second pair of eyes to scope them out for them.

Regardless of the reason, a manuscript critique can be just as useful to a writer as a developmental edit.

So let’s dive into what a manuscript critique is, shall we?

A manuscript critique, also known as a manuscript evaluation or assessment, is a “big picture” review of a writer’s manuscript.

The purpose of a manuscript critique is to provide constructive feedback on the overall structure, content, and effectiveness of the manuscript. This can be the first stage of editing in lieu of a developmental (dev.) edit.

The process is very similar to a dev. edit but less in-depth and typically doesn’t include inline comments. The manuscript’s review is executed on an editorial letter discussing all the editor’s findings. This is also usually less costly than a developmental edit.

What does a manuscript critique look at?

• Plot development: How well does the story progress? Are there clear plot points? Is the pacing appropriate?

• Structure: Does the story have a solid beginning, middle, and end? Are the scenes and chapters organized in a way that makes sense and keeps the reader engaged?

• Conflict and tension: Are the conflicts compelling and well-developed? Does the story maintain tension throughout?

• Character development: Are the characters fully developed with clear motivations, strengths, and weaknesses? Do they change or grow throughout the story? Are the relationships between characters believable and well-developed?

• Dialogue: Does the dialogue sound natural and serve the purpose of the story? Does it reveal character and advance the plot?

• Description and imagery: Is the setting described in a way that is vivid and immersive? Does it enhance the story?

• World-Building: Is the world or universe consistent, believable, and well-developed?

• Themes: Are the themes clear and well-explored? Does the story convey a message or provoke thought?

• Subtext: Is there underlying meaning or depth to the narrative? Does the story work on multiple levels?

• Narrative voice: Is the narrative voice distinct and appropriate for the story? Does it maintain consistency throughout the manuscript?

• Writing style: Is the writing style effective in conveying the story? Are there issues with tone, mood, or readability?

• Pacing: Does the story move at an appropriate pace? Are there parts that drag or feel rushed?

• Transitions: Are the transitions between scenes and chapters smooth and logical?

• Audience: Is the manuscript appropriate for its intended audience? Does it meet genre expectations?

• Unique selling points: What makes the manuscript stand out? Is it original or does it bring a fresh perspective to familiar themes?

• Strengths: What are the manuscript’s strongest aspects? What is working well?

• Weaknesses: What needs improvement? Where does the manuscript fall short?

Examples of situations that may come up during a manuscript critique:

• Advising on areas of the manuscript where the pacing moves slow.

• Advising on how to improve character development when/if a character or more are coming across flat.

• Review of voice and tone and discussion of whether this is consistent throughout the narrative.

• This edit does not feature any inline comments. Advice is given in a more general manner, though we do touch on the most pressing of issues. This edit is much quicker than a dev. edit and less costly.

Not sure if you could benefit most from a developmental edit or a manuscript critique? Reach out and let’s have a chat! I can help you decide which type of editing can help your story most. You can’t go wrong either way because a manuscript critique will still be able to point out the areas in your story that need improvement!