Proofreading
This is the simplest form of editing. Proofreading involves checking spelling and correcting the most basic of grammatical errors. This form of editing can also check for inconsistencies in layout and formatting.
Copyediting
This is the most common form of editing and is sometimes called Line Editing.
• correcting spelling, grammar, punctuation, syntax, and word usage
while preserving the meaning and voice of the original text
• checking for or imposing a consistent style and format
• preparing a style sheet that documents style and format
• reading for overall clarity and sense on behalf of the prospective
audience
• querying the appropriate party about apparent errors or
inconsistencies
• noting permissions needed to publish copyrighted material
• cross-checking references, art, figures, tables, equations, and
other features for consistency with their mentions in the text
• preparing a manuscript for the next stage of the publication
process
Substantive Editing (the bulk of my projects)
• identifying and solving problems of overall clarity or accuracy
• reorganizing paragraphs, sections, or chapters to improve the order
in which the text is presented
• writing or rewriting segments of text to improve readability and flow
of information
• revising any or all aspects of the text to improve its presentation
• consulting with others about issues of concern
• incorporating responses to queries and suggestions creating a new
draft of the document
Developmental Editing
• working with the client, usually the author of a book or other
document, to develop a manuscript from initial concept, outline, or
draft (or some combination of the three) through any number of
subsequent drafts
• making suggestions about content, organization, and presentation,
based on analysis of competing works, comments of expert
reviewers, the client's market analysis, and other appropriate
references
• rewriting, writing, and researching, as needed, and sometimes
suggesting topics or providing information about topics for
consideration of authors and client.
This is the simplest form of editing. Proofreading involves checking spelling and correcting the most basic of grammatical errors. This form of editing can also check for inconsistencies in layout and formatting.
Copyediting
This is the most common form of editing and is sometimes called Line Editing.
• correcting spelling, grammar, punctuation, syntax, and word usage
while preserving the meaning and voice of the original text
• checking for or imposing a consistent style and format
• preparing a style sheet that documents style and format
• reading for overall clarity and sense on behalf of the prospective
audience
• querying the appropriate party about apparent errors or
inconsistencies
• noting permissions needed to publish copyrighted material
• cross-checking references, art, figures, tables, equations, and
other features for consistency with their mentions in the text
• preparing a manuscript for the next stage of the publication
process
Substantive Editing (the bulk of my projects)
• identifying and solving problems of overall clarity or accuracy
• reorganizing paragraphs, sections, or chapters to improve the order
in which the text is presented
• writing or rewriting segments of text to improve readability and flow
of information
• revising any or all aspects of the text to improve its presentation
• consulting with others about issues of concern
• incorporating responses to queries and suggestions creating a new
draft of the document
Developmental Editing
• working with the client, usually the author of a book or other
document, to develop a manuscript from initial concept, outline, or
draft (or some combination of the three) through any number of
subsequent drafts
• making suggestions about content, organization, and presentation,
based on analysis of competing works, comments of expert
reviewers, the client's market analysis, and other appropriate
references
• rewriting, writing, and researching, as needed, and sometimes
suggesting topics or providing information about topics for
consideration of authors and client.
