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Copy Editing 101

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for the love of editing
What do editors mean when they say "copy edit"?
Different editors have different ideas about what a copy edit entails. So it's important to have a clear understanding of what is going to happen before you sign an editorial agreement.

What should you expect from a copy edit?
A copy edit cleans up mistakes in grammar and punctuation, and comments on (or fixes) a wide variety of other issues, including problems with logic, word usage, consistency, style, and tone, all while maintaining the author's voice and intention. It's an intense process
. If anyone tells you they'll have your 85,000-word manuscript copy edited by the next day, run the other way! A copy edit of that size should take a few weeks, depending on the level of edit required.  

What will I do for you?
  • use MS Word Track Changes, so you'll be able to see all my changes and either accept or reject them.
  • comment regularly so that you know why I’m suggesting changes.
  • keep a style sheet to ensure consistency throughout your work (e.g., Do not use quotation marks for characters' thoughts. Set in italics instead).
  • correct errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling, but make exceptions as necessary (e.g., in fiction).
  • make all spellings consistent (e.g., "towards" not "toward"; both are correct, but only one should be used throughout your work).
  • ensure that the proper spelling is being used depending on where you live (e.g., American spellings for an American audience).
  • fix problems with word usage, being particularly aware of words that are commonly confused (e.g., farther, further).
  • make changes to paragraphs, sentences, and words to clarify meaning. If big changes are required, I will make suggestions in a comment and leave the changes up to you.
  • simplify long or complicated sentences, choose active over passive voice in most cases, and ensure that structure is parallel. 
  • make or suggest changes to reduce wordiness and repetition of terms and phrases.
  • comment on problems with logic and suggest changes.
  • notice inconsistencies in characters (including the narrator) and suggest changes.
  • tighten dialogue and point out inconsistencies in voice and tone.
 
In non-fiction work I also will ensure the following:
  • tables, graphs, or any visual elements are clearly and consistently labelled and effectively convey the intended meaning. 
  • paragraphs have a clear topic sentence and logical flow.
  • transitions between sentences and between paragraphs are smooth and support the text as a whole.
  • elements are ordered logically (e.g., bullets in a list, components of a website).
  • language and reading level are appropriate for the intended audience (e.g., simplifying technical terms where necessary and using jargon consistently and effectively).
  • data, historical facts, quotations, etc. are correct.
  • website links are active and accurate.
  • cross-reference information from links, tables of contents, and other auxiliary materials are correct.

questions? send me an email!


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