Substantive editing
In a substantive edit (also referred to as a structural, developmental, or heavy edit) the editor works with the author to address big-picture issues including structure and organization. Substantive editing also involves improving the clarity and flow of sentences, paragraphs, and whole chapters. The editor may point out missing information or a weak argument or inconsistencies. The editor will, of course, correct typos and grammatical errors that she comes across, but those items are not the focus at this stage in the process.
Copyediting
Copyediting addresses spelling, punctuation, grammar, syntax, consistency, and style. This is a sentence-level edit. Copyediting can also improve clarity, tone, and transitions. A document or manuscript that is submitted for copyediting should not require reorganization or rewriting, but the copy editor may point out awkward phrasing or improper word usage and suggest alternatives. If there are citations, they are checked for accuracy, consistency, and adherence to the preferred style. Copyediting may require going over the text several times. The editor will create a style sheet to ensure consistency (“internet” or “Internet”? “percent” or “%”?), which can later be used by the proofreader.
Proofreading
Proofreading happens after a document or manuscript has been thoroughly edited. The proofreader makes sure all the t’s are crossed and the i’s are dotted. She looks for typos, punctuation errors, and basic grammar errors, as well as any errors introduced after the copyedit. The proofreader also checks tables of contents, figures, heading levels, and formatting. The proofreader will not recast sentences or offer suggestions on content and structure because by this point in the process, the document should not need that type of review. Proofreading is the last chance to catch errors before the manuscript is published.
I can help you with…
- User guides and other types of technical documentation
- Scholarly papers, manuscripts, articles, and dissertations in the humanities and social sciences
- Self-published nonfiction books