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Copyediting

Copyediting occurs after the big-picture work is done. Maybe you collaborated with a developmental editor to address the structure and flow of your manuscript, incorporated feedback from a manuscript evaluation, or consulted a group of beta readers. The next step is to take a look at your work on a smaller scale.

To ensure your manuscript is clear, consistent, concise, correct, and inclusive, copyediting may address the following:

  • Mechanics (e.g., spelling, punctuation, hyphenation, and capitalization)
  • Language (e.g., grammar, usage, syntax, and wordiness)
  • Content (e.g., organization, logic, and correctness of facts)
  • Layout (e.g., numbering, alphabetization, and references)
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Levels of copyediting

Copyediting levels prioritize the needs of a project, allowing me to attend to the most important aspects of your manuscript while working within the parameters of your timeline and budget. Based on the information you provide in the contact form, I will develop a proposal that outlines the copyediting focus, project timeline, estimated fees, and more.

Light

During a light copyedit, I correct definite errors in mechanics, language, and layout in your manuscript. Extreme wordiness and content issues are queried, typically through a comment in the margin.

Medium

During a medium copyedit, I correct definite errors in mechanics, language, and layout. Wordiness, imprecise or awkward wording, and content problems are queried. Queries include suggestions that you may choose to apply to your work.

Heavy

During a heavy copyedit, I correct definite errors in mechanics, language, and layout. I also edit to improve wordiness, imprecise wording, and awkward phrasing. Content problems are either edited directly or queried. Queries include suggestions that you may choose to apply to your work.