How do I know what type of editing service I need?
My editorial services can be broken down into three categories:
1) proofreading, 2) copy editing, and 3) substantive editing - these are explained below.
If you aren't sure which service is right for your document, please contact me for a free evaluation/quote.
1) proofreading, 2) copy editing, and 3) substantive editing - these are explained below.
If you aren't sure which service is right for your document, please contact me for a free evaluation/quote.
PROOFREADING
- Last stage of the editing process
- Best for documents that are ready for print/publication/submission
- Involves:
- Reviewing formatting for consistency (pagination, table numbering and placement, headers and footers, spacing, graphics/photos and captions, reference information, list numbering)
- Catching last-minute typos
- Making small wording changes
- Does not involve extensive rewriting or restructuring
COPY EDITING
- Useful for documents requiring some rewriting/restructuring
- Best option for longer, more technical documents needing a clean-up
- Normally involves working more closely with the client
- Includes a basic style guide document for reference/consistency
- Involves:
- Reviewing formatting
- Fixing typos
- Cleaning up grammar issues
- Ensuring client-specified style standards are met
- Giving document an overall consistent and clear "voice"
SUBSTANTIVE EDITING
- Best for rough first drafts that need direction and focus
- Normally requires more time than proofreading or copy editing services
- Usually involves more client and editor collaboration
- Includes an extensive style guide document for reference/consistency
- Involves:
- Researching/fact-checking
- Developing story/focus
- Rewriting and restructuring
- Cleaning up grammar/typos
- Discussing options for publication/submission