It takes time to produce an effective publication. Editors make the publishing process easier and help you meet deadlines faster because we know what issues to look for and how to fix them. We will:
Ensure that your message is clear, correct, concise, and consistent
Avoid embarrassing errors or typos
Help you build trust and credibility
Substantive editing occurs before copyediting, or is sometimes combined with copyediting.
This type of editing looks at the big picture and involves revising any or all aspects of the text to improve its presentation. We look at the overall structure and make sure it is logically sound and well organized. We identify inconsistencies, gaps in logic, missing information, and areas for improvement. We may rewrite sentences or suggest alternative wording to improve readability, clarity, or accuracy. This could involve one or more rounds.
This is also sometimes called macroediting, structural editing, or content editing.
Copyediting occurs when the text is in final or nearly final form. It can be light, medium, or heavy.
This stage of editing involves delving into the intricate details and overall clarity of the document. We read each sentence carefully, seeking to fix errors in spelling, punctuation, capitalization, grammar, and word usage while preserving the author's meaning and voice. We look at the writing style and consider word choice, syntax, tone, and voice. We revise sentences to ensure that readers can grasp the intended meaning without any confusion. We identify inconsistencies, gaps in logic, and missing information. We ensure that the text adheres to an editorial style. We also edit and review elements such as captions, tables, figures, photos, maps, citations, references, and footnotes.
This is also sometimes called microediting, line editing, or stylistic editing. "Copy" is another word for text that is to be published.
Proofreading is the final quality step after copyediting and layout.
Proofreading occurs after design is complete and any visual elements have been added. We correct errors that might have been overlooked during the copyediting stage or introduced during the review stage or design process. We can also cross-check the text to ensure that earlier changes were made correctly, and we can check design elements such as heading and typeface styles, page numbers, and spacing.
Many people use the word "proofreading" to mean general checking of a piece of writing, but in the traditional publishing workflow, proofreading is one stage at the end of the editing process.
Developmental editing is a very in-depth type of editing that focuses on conceptual development, overall argument, and completeness of content. Like writing coaching, it focuses on big-picture elements and often includes detailed feedback, suggestions, or outlines for revision. We do not provide these services, which typically happen early in the writing process to help authors shape their project from an initial concept or rough draft. However, we're happy to refer you to trusted professionals who specialize in this type of support.
We sometimes offer writing services, usually in partnership with skilled writers as part of a larger project that includes editing and writing.
All of our writing partners belong to Mightier, a collective of woman-owned businesses that collaborate to promote the social good.
If you're not sure what type of editing you need, please reach out. We can start with a conversation to help determine the best type of edit for you. We can also review the document to determine what level we recommend. We will customize our editing approach to suit your needs.
See our FAQ page for more information about how we work.
We also know other editors and writers who may be a better fit for your project or have more availability if our schedule is full. Please let us know if you are looking for recommendations.