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Story Research Lab

What should a story-editing brief specify?

Author: Story Research Lab · Editorial team · Updated: 2026-10-06

Who this guide helps

Writers commissioning an editorial review

The short answer

Define the level of edit and decision it supports. Developmental feedback, line editing, proofreading and adaptation are different deliverables.

Practical workflow

State medium, audience, draft version and specific concerns. Explain what must remain unchanged and what the editor may challenge. Ask about relevant experience, report format, revision rounds and confidentiality. Supply authorized references and identify production constraints. Confirm whether the editor rewrites text or only comments.

What a useful handoff looks like

Request feedback tied to scene or page references with priorities and examples. Keep creative authority and rights terms explicit. Compare delivery with the agreed scope rather than a new expectation introduced at the end.

Mistakes to avoid

Do not assume a critique includes a rewritten script or a guarantee of publication. A clear brief cannot promise market success.

Working example: fields to record

FieldIllustrative entry — replace with your own facts
Edit levelDevelopmental or line work
Fixed elementAuthor requirement to preserve
DeliverableReferenced report or tracked edits

Add your own entries; the example is illustrative. Keep sensitive information private.

Download the blank worksheet

Sources & further checks

Official references are starting points for further checks, not approval of a specific case, product or project.

Editorial note

AI-assisted editorial guidance; not expert certification.

Original editorial guidance. Examples are illustrative, not client cases, measured outcomes or promised services.

Legal and health-related decisions require appropriately qualified local professionals. This site is an independent editorial resource, not a law firm or medical provider.