Developmental Editing
Developmental Editing
POINT ACROSS works with complex research,
idea-driven non-fiction, and multimodal projects to clarify ideas, arguments, and findings.
BUSINESS ° ACADEMIA ° NON-PROFIT ° INDEPENDENT WRITERS
POINT ACROSS is an independent editorial practice focused on non-fiction projects. Clients include independent writers, professionals, academics, researchers, non-profit and private sector organisations. Projects include narrative non-fiction, research design, questionnaires, research reports, design-thinking, and multimodal work.
POINT ACROSS is a one-person studio. You work directly with me, Beata, from start to finish. This keeps the collaboration focused, continuous, and closely tailored to your project.
POINT ACROSS is a one-person studio. You work directly with me, Beata, from start to finish. This keeps the collaboration focused, continuous, and closely tailored to your project.
SERVICES
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Books
Strong books depend on a clear thematic and conceptual spine. I work with you to:- define and refine the overall coherence of the project
- strengthen the structure across chapters or contributions, and
- ensure the argument and/or narrative develops consistently across the manuscript.
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Articles
Successful articles depend on a focused, well-positioned argument. I help:- refine the logic of the argument
- clarify the intervention, and
- strengthen the overall structure of the text.
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Memoirs
Memoirs work when personal experience illuminates larger truths. I work with you to:- deepen the analytical and reflective layers of the story
- clarify its focus, and
- strengthen the connection between individual experience and broader context.
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Questionnaires
Strong questionnaires balance clarity, neutrality, and focus. I help:- eliminate ambiguity in wording
- avoid bias and leading questions
- improve structure and flow, and
- ensure the questionnaire yields meaningful, usable data.
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Research reports
Reports are only as strong as the connections between their parts. I work with you to:- align data, analysis, and recommendations
- clarify limitations
- refine overall structure and argument, and
- highlight what is new and significant.
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Research design
Good research design begins with clear objectives and appropriate methods. I help:- assess feasibility of your approach
- identify methodological alternatives, and
- refine methods and sampling strategy.
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Multimedia projects
When words are not enough, images and sound can extend the narrative. I work with you to:- integrate different media so they support the argument, and
- strengthen the overall coherence of the project.
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Project critique
Early-stage critique can prevent structural problems later. I review your project’s core elements to:- identify what is working
- flag issues or redundancies, and
- outline where further development would strengthen the final outcome.
Get in touch about your project
Send a short description of your work to discuss
scope, timeline, and fit.
scope, timeline, and fit.
How it Works
Every project is different, so the process is adapted to the scope, stage and needs of the work. The following outlines the usual approach.
Initial Contact
We get in touch to start the conversation. We briefly discuss your project, goals, and timeline. We assess our fit and discuss the best way to collaborate.
Sample
Sample review
I review a short sample to assess the scope, level of intervention, and timeline. This review is for assessment purposes only and does not involve editing. Based on this review, I provide a detailed quote.
Optional sample edit
If helpful, I can provide a paid sample edit to demonstrate my approach. This is optional and agreed in advance.
I review a short sample to assess the scope, level of intervention, and timeline. This review is for assessment purposes only and does not involve editing. Based on this review, I provide a detailed quote.
Optional sample edit
If helpful, I can provide a paid sample edit to demonstrate my approach. This is optional and agreed in advance.
Agreement & Scheduling
Once we agree on scope, timeline, and type of work (developmental editing, line editing, or both), we sign a contract. A 50% deposit secures your place in my schedule (shorter projects are paid in full upfront).
Editing
I complete the edit according to the agreed scope and timeline. Turnaround time depends on length, complexity, and level of editing required.
Delivery & Follow-up
Once the edit is complete and the remaining fee is paid, you receive the full edited file and a short editorial report. I remain available for questions for two weeks after delivery of the edit, or for as long as agreed in advance.
Optional: Iterative Collaboration
Many projects benefit from an iterative process involving discussion and revision across several stages. For such multi-phase or iterative projects, timelines and milestones are defined at the outset.
Optional: Iterative Collaboration
Many projects benefit from an iterative process involving discussion and revision across several stages. For such multi-phase or iterative projects, timelines and milestones are defined at the outset.
If the process looks like a good fit, tell me a bit about your project.
If you have any remaining questions,
FAQs may be of help.
FAQs may be of help.
Investment
Below are indicative investment ranges for common types of collaboration.
Books
from $3,000
For book-length nonfiction and extended manuscripts requiring structural clarification, argument refinement, and conceptual coherence.
- Projects are scoped individually according to manuscript length, editorial requirements, and the extent of structural work involved.
Research Articles
$1,000–$3,000
For academic or long-form analytical writing (approx. 8,000 words).
- Pricing varies according to the manuscript's condition, the level of structural intervention required, and whether the work involves a single editorial round or more iterative development.
Multimedia Projects
$1,000–$3,000
For narrative and conceptual development of long-form projects (e.g., 60-minute film).
- More complex or extended engagements are quoted individually.
Research Design
from $1,500
For projects requiring analytical structuring, methodological clarification, or iterative conceptual development.
- Longer-term or multi-phase collaborations are scoped according to duration and depth of involvement.
One round of editing consists of two editing passes.
The first pass focuses on substantive comments, suggestions, and edits. In the second pass, the manuscript is reviewed again to double-check the changes and add any further edits that emerge from the first pass.
Only after both passes are complete is the manuscript returned to you.
For longer projects, we can work in chunks. For example, I can edit one chapter and send it to you while continuing with the next chapter, allowing you to work with the edits as the project progresses.
The first pass focuses on substantive comments, suggestions, and edits. In the second pass, the manuscript is reviewed again to double-check the changes and add any further edits that emerge from the first pass.
Only after both passes are complete is the manuscript returned to you.
For longer projects, we can work in chunks. For example, I can edit one chapter and send it to you while continuing with the next chapter, allowing you to work with the edits as the project progresses.
Payment
Payment is made by invoice, either in agreed stages or upfront:
Payment in stages
For larger projects, the fee is usually split into two instalments:
– 50% to secure a place in the schedule
– 50% due before delivery of the completed work
Alternative payment plans can be arranged by agreement.
Full payment upfront
Smaller projects and project critiques are paid in full upfront.
I work with international clients. Payment can be made via international bank transfer, Wise, or other agreed methods. Any bank transfer fees are the responsibility of the person commissioning the work.
Payment in stages
For larger projects, the fee is usually split into two instalments:
– 50% to secure a place in the schedule
– 50% due before delivery of the completed work
Alternative payment plans can be arranged by agreement.
Full payment upfront
Smaller projects and project critiques are paid in full upfront.
I work with international clients. Payment can be made via international bank transfer, Wise, or other agreed methods. Any bank transfer fees are the responsibility of the person commissioning the work.
About
Who you'll be working with
Beata Świtek
Point Across, Founder
I am a socio-cultural anthropologist with over a decade of experience in social research design and implementation, non-fiction writing, editing books, articles and collections, and advising on multimedia ethnographic projects.
I work across academic and applied contexts, supporting not only books and articles but also problem formulation, research design, analysis, and reporting. I have led and contributed to research and writing projects for academic, non-profit, and governmental organisations.
I hold a PhD in Anthropology from UCL, an MA in Japan Studies, and a Diploma in Journalism.
Having lived and worked in Poland, England, Indonesia, Germany, and Denmark, I am now based in Tokyo.
I work across academic and applied contexts, supporting not only books and articles but also problem formulation, research design, analysis, and reporting. I have led and contributed to research and writing projects for academic, non-profit, and governmental organisations.
I hold a PhD in Anthropology from UCL, an MA in Japan Studies, and a Diploma in Journalism.
Having lived and worked in Poland, England, Indonesia, Germany, and Denmark, I am now based in Tokyo.
I have always been drawn to the unknown, driven by a curiosity to explore new subjects, places, and perspectives. Staying with one topic for years has never been my thing; connecting the dots between them has. I left my hometown to study across the country, and later, across borders.
While I enjoy traveling, I find it far more compelling to live in different places long enough to become truly embedded in local communities. That's what drew me to anthropology in the first place. As a result, I have lived and worked in several countries, spending much of my career navigating the space between academia and the wider world.
Along the way, I realised that my satisfaction didn't come only from conducting my own research, though that is fascinating in its own right. It came from developing ideas. Working alongside students, colleagues, and organisations to shape a raw concept or set of data into a finished piece of work has always been one of the most rewarding parts of my career. This realisation ultimately led me to leave a tenure-track position, relocate to Japan, and pivot to developmental editing alongside my own creative projects.
Developmental editing allows me to sustain that broad sense of exploration, taking me far beyond what I could ever personally experience, research or imagine, while helping others shape and share their insights. It truly doesn't get any better.
What I love most is watching a piece of writing, a film, or a project design find its form. There is a distinct thrill when a story or an argument begins to crystallise and the author’s voice becomes clearer with each round of edits.
The early stages of developmental editing can feel like wading through mud in a dense forest; progress is slow, the destination uncertain. But then, with each exchange, the path begins to open, the ground firms, light filters in, and the direction becomes clear. That moment of clarity is the magic that keeps me hooked.
While I enjoy traveling, I find it far more compelling to live in different places long enough to become truly embedded in local communities. That's what drew me to anthropology in the first place. As a result, I have lived and worked in several countries, spending much of my career navigating the space between academia and the wider world.
Along the way, I realised that my satisfaction didn't come only from conducting my own research, though that is fascinating in its own right. It came from developing ideas. Working alongside students, colleagues, and organisations to shape a raw concept or set of data into a finished piece of work has always been one of the most rewarding parts of my career. This realisation ultimately led me to leave a tenure-track position, relocate to Japan, and pivot to developmental editing alongside my own creative projects.
Developmental editing allows me to sustain that broad sense of exploration, taking me far beyond what I could ever personally experience, research or imagine, while helping others shape and share their insights. It truly doesn't get any better.
What I love most is watching a piece of writing, a film, or a project design find its form. There is a distinct thrill when a story or an argument begins to crystallise and the author’s voice becomes clearer with each round of edits.
The early stages of developmental editing can feel like wading through mud in a dense forest; progress is slow, the destination uncertain. But then, with each exchange, the path begins to open, the ground firms, light filters in, and the direction becomes clear. That moment of clarity is the magic that keeps me hooked.
Associations & Memberships
Focused, limited workload.
I work with a small number of projects at a time so I can offer thoughtful, deeply considered feedback on every engagement.
Do you have any questions?
Let's discuss your project
Send a brief description of the project, where it is in its development, and what you feel is not yet working. An initial conversation can establish whether developmental editing is the right fit and what kind of support would be most useful.
Do you have any questions?
Find answers below!
FAQs
Q1. How much will it cost?
Each project is priced individually.
Investment ranges are outlined on the Investment page. Final fees are agreed once scope is clarified.
If you ask for both developmental and line editing, we will work in two stages (developmental edit followed by focused line editing). It will be a combined package at a blended rate.
Investment ranges are outlined on the Investment page. Final fees are agreed once scope is clarified.
If you ask for both developmental and line editing, we will work in two stages (developmental edit followed by focused line editing). It will be a combined package at a blended rate.
Q2. How do your fees compare to industry standards?
Editorial fees vary widely depending on scope, complexity, and level of involvement.
For a general overview of typical editorial ranges, you may consult the Editorial Rate Estimator published by the Editorial Freelancers Association
For a general overview of typical editorial ranges, you may consult the Editorial Rate Estimator published by the Editorial Freelancers Association
Q3. What payment methods are available?
Payment can be made via international bank transfer or other agreed methods.
Fees are agreed in advance in the selected currency.
Please get in touch if you require other arrangements.
Fees are agreed in advance in the selected currency.
Please get in touch if you require other arrangements.
Q4. How long will the edit take?
We agree on the timeline based on the condition of the project, the type of editing required, and our schedules, but please use this as a guideline:
- Short pieces (up to 8,000 words): 1–2 weeks
- Mid-length projects: 3–4 weeks
- Book-length projects: 6–8 weeks
- Research projects and questionnaires: by agreement
- Project critiques: by agreement
Q5. I have a tight deadline. Do you offer speedy edits?
It will depend on my schedule at the time.
If my workload at the time permits it, I will try to find a way to accommodate your request. There will be a 'rush surcharge' of 30%.
If my workload at the time permits it, I will try to find a way to accommodate your request. There will be a 'rush surcharge' of 30%.
Q6. How can I submit my project?
After initial contact, I will share a secure upload link for your project.
Q7. How will I receive my edit?
Edits are typically delivered as tracked changes and comments in a Microsoft Word document, sent via a privacy-focused email provider.
Files may also be shared via secure download link (e.g., Proton Drive) or another agreed method.
All suggested changes remain visible, and you decide which to accept.
Each edit is accompanied by a complimentary report outlining project wide feedback.
Files may also be shared via secure download link (e.g., Proton Drive) or another agreed method.
All suggested changes remain visible, and you decide which to accept.
Each edit is accompanied by a complimentary report outlining project wide feedback.
Q8. What is the difference between developmental editing, line editing, copy editing, and proof reading?
They are different stages of project production.
Developmental editing
Helps shape the overall structure, argument, and focus of a project. It looks at the big picture—what the work is trying to say and how effectively it does so.
Line editing
Improves the flow at the sentence and paragraph level. It focuses on clarity, rhythm, tone, and how well the writing communicates.
Copyediting
Checks grammar, syntax, consistency, and accuracy. It ensures the text follows a clear style and reads cleanly.
Proofreading
The final polish. It catches remaining typos, minor errors, and formatting issues before publication.
I recommend that you do them in this order to avoid errors remaining in your project.
Developmental editing
Helps shape the overall structure, argument, and focus of a project. It looks at the big picture—what the work is trying to say and how effectively it does so.
Line editing
Improves the flow at the sentence and paragraph level. It focuses on clarity, rhythm, tone, and how well the writing communicates.
Copyediting
Checks grammar, syntax, consistency, and accuracy. It ensures the text follows a clear style and reads cleanly.
Proofreading
The final polish. It catches remaining typos, minor errors, and formatting issues before publication.
I recommend that you do them in this order to avoid errors remaining in your project.
Q9. Do you offer copy-editing and proofreading?
I do not provide stand-alone copy-editing or proofreading services.
My work focuses on developmental editing and project-level critique.
Upon agreement, I offer line editing as a package with developmental edit.
My work focuses on developmental editing and project-level critique.
Upon agreement, I offer line editing as a package with developmental edit.
10. Do you offer line editing?
Yes, I offer both, line editing and developmental editing as a combined package, but I do not offer line editing as a standalone service.
Developmental editing shapes the structure, clarity, and logic of your project, while line editing improves clarity, flow, and readability at the sentence and paragraph level.
In practice, these stages often inform each other. Some line-level adjustments may occur during developmental editing to support larger structural changes.
For projects requiring substantial revisions, we focus on developmental editing first, with line editing applied afterward as needed.
If you’d like both stages completed, they can be offered as a combined package at a blended rate.
Developmental editing shapes the structure, clarity, and logic of your project, while line editing improves clarity, flow, and readability at the sentence and paragraph level.
In practice, these stages often inform each other. Some line-level adjustments may occur during developmental editing to support larger structural changes.
For projects requiring substantial revisions, we focus on developmental editing first, with line editing applied afterward as needed.
If you’d like both stages completed, they can be offered as a combined package at a blended rate.
Q11. What is project critique?
Project critique is an early-stage evaluation of your idea before drafting begins.
Project critique takes place early, at the planning stage—before any developmental editing begins. It offers a structured assessment of your initial concept, identifying strengths, gaps, and potential directions before you commit to a full draft. You will receive a detailed report outlining these points (without in-text comments, which are part of developmental editing).
Project critique takes place early, at the planning stage—before any developmental editing begins. It offers a structured assessment of your initial concept, identifying strengths, gaps, and potential directions before you commit to a full draft. You will receive a detailed report outlining these points (without in-text comments, which are part of developmental editing).
Q12. Do you work with quantitative or statistical projects?
I do not work on projects based exclusively on quantitative or statistical analysis.
I work on qualitative and mixed-method projects where ethnographic data, interviews, textual material, life stories, or other qualitative data are central.
I work on qualitative and mixed-method projects where ethnographic data, interviews, textual material, life stories, or other qualitative data are central.
Q13. Do you use AI to provide your services?
All developmental feedback and editorial guidance I provide is based solely on my professional judgment. AI is used for research and administrative tasks.
While AI can improve grammar and surface style, it cannot truly understand complex arguments, long-form structure, or an author’s intended voice.
In my own experiments asking AI for editorial assessment, it failed to provide meaningful guidance, misinterpreting intent, missing structural issues, and flattening authorial voice.
AI also cannot judge when to follow convention or break it creatively—these are decisions that require human imagination and editorial insight.
While AI can improve grammar and surface style, it cannot truly understand complex arguments, long-form structure, or an author’s intended voice.
In my own experiments asking AI for editorial assessment, it failed to provide meaningful guidance, misinterpreting intent, missing structural issues, and flattening authorial voice.
AI also cannot judge when to follow convention or break it creatively—these are decisions that require human imagination and editorial insight.
Start the Conversation
Use this form to get in touch or request an initial assessment. A detailed quote is provided after initial discussion and sample review.
To protect confidentiality, samples are shared only after initial contact.
To protect confidentiality, samples are shared only after initial contact.
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