services
ed-i-tor \'eded-u(r)\ n -s [LL, publisher, fr. L editus] 1. a: one who revises, corrects or arranges the work of others for publication
.........................................
Most of my work is line editing and copy editing ... that is, correcting grammar, punctuation, spelling, syntax, diction, usage, and consistency with an ear to style, voice, and readability.¹
As I see it, the most important aspect of editing is focus on the assigned responsibility. You don't want to rewrite when a copy edit is called for. You don't want to address style when a proofread is needed. And so on. If you address one level of editing when you're responsible for another, you can't do either properly.
What's important is being clear at the start of a project about what the manuscript needs and how aggressively the editor should edit. The decision is yours as the client, not mine as the editor.
1. Equally important are the services I expressly do not and cannot offer. These include magic fixes, turning a manuscript into a bestseller, recommending agents, making agents more likely to read your manuscript, and ensuring publication.
1
Proofreading
Checking and correcting punctuation, spelling, agreement, capitalization, and word use. Appropriate after all edits are complete, just before going to press.
Copy editing
Eliminating incorrect or unclear grammar, word choice, factual inconsistencies, syntax and inconsistent style. Appropriate when the content has been finalized.
Line editing
Attending to style, flow, and voice while eliminating grammatical error and logical inconsistencies. Appropriate when the substance is finalized.
Substantive editing (Content editing)
Analyzing and editing for content, structure, completeness, and tone. Determining what should be added, developed, or deleted to enhance the manuscript. Appropriate to ensure that the audience is addressed appropriately.
Developmental editing
Working with the author during the formative stages of a manuscript. Outlining the fundamental structure, identifying the voice of the narration, ensuring logical development of content, and establishing an appropriate depth and extent of topic coverage.
Rewriting
Reworking existing material, whether from a substantive or stylistic angle. Appropriate when emphasis, voice, style, or focus is not directed to the intended readers.
Translation editing
Attending to stylistic nuances and literal implications of words and phrases in material in which the technical accuracy of the translation is certain. Involves continued dialog with client fluent in the original language.
2
SEO copywriting
3
Book design
© 1995–2008 HGC | All rights reserved | 301-562-6995
