Copy-editing

Ideally, copy-editing is done prior to proofreading. In addition to checking spelling, grammar and punctuation, I include the following in my copy-editing service:

  • improving the readability, clarity and fluency of the text
  • removing monotonous repetition of words and phrases
  • checking for ambiguity and suggesting solutions
  • checking that tenses are used consistently and noting where there is a problem with inconsistency
  • checking that any style guide has been complied with and correcting the text where necessary (excluding formatting/layout)
  • checking that the chapter headings and subheadings in any Table of Contents match those in the text
  • checking that abbreviations are noted when a term is first mentioned and noting where they are not
  • checking that the treatment of quotations that are embedded in the text and those that are displayed is consistent (e.g. that quotations of up to a certain number of words/lines are embedded and that the layout for displayed quotations is consistent) and noting where this is not the case
  • checking that the headings/captions relating to tables, figures and illustrations appear to be consistent in terms of font size and type and capitalisation and noting where this is not the case
  • checking any numbered sequences and making a note if any sequence is incorrect
  • checking the layout of lists and advising whether the style is consistent across the text or within each list and noting inconsistencies
  • identifying any overuse of things such as italic, bold and capitals
  • although checking all factual content isn’t one of the checks done, I will be alert to errors such as misspelled names of people, documents or buildings and misquoted material and will check or query them

 

copy-editing-west-midlands

 

If you’d like to find out more about my copy-editing services, please get in touch using the Superscript contact page

 

Proof-editing

Proof-editing is quite a new term. It is a combination of proofreading and copy-editing that is done at the same time. Lots of clients are very happy with this one-step service – it meets the needs of their text and doesn’t strain their budget.

Many of my (non-publisher) clients say that they want their text proofreading, but when I look at the file it’s clear that it needs more than this, and ideally should be copy-edited. If the client doesn’t have the time or the budget to ask me to copy-edit their text first and then proofread it at a later date once they’ve made the relevant changes, I can proof-edit it in one pass.

If you’re not sure which service you need, you can just send me your text and I’ll advise you.