Types of CopyEditing
1>> Developmental Editing
Developmental editing (sometimes called content editing) involves looking at the “big picture” of a manuscript (book, article, blog, etc.) and analyzing it for organization and logical structure. The focus is to identify potential gaps and ensure that the work addresses its purpose, supports any claims it makes, and maintains its tone and voice consistently throughout. In this phase of the editing process, the editor works as a writing coach might and guides the author in addressing issues.
➡ The outcome of the developmental editing phase is generally a brief analysis of the piece and specific recommendations for the author and/or client to consider implementing.
2>> Line Editing
At the sentence level, line editing (sometimes called substantive editing) aims to correct errors and make words and phrases clearer, more precise, and more effective. Among other things, copyeditor engages in mechanical editing, language editing, and editing correlating parts to improve a manuscript. The copyeditor generally uses tracks changes to make edits directly int he manuscript and will query the author or client using comments.
Mechanical editing focuses on ensuring a manuscript adheres to a specific editorial style. Elements of editorial style include spelling, hyphenation, capitalization, punctuation, treatment of quotations, treatment of numbers, use of acronyms and abbreviations, etc. All editorial decisions are documented in a Style Sheet.
Language editing focuses on grammar, usage, and diction (word choice). A copyeditor may identify instances of passive voice, wordiness, use of gender-specific language and suggest alternatives.
Dealing with correlating parts involves a good amount of cross-checking when manuscripts are a bit more lengthy or complex and contain in-text citations, footnotes or endnotes, references or bibliographies, tables or figures, illustrations and captions, appendices, multi-level headings, step-by-step instructions, etc.
➡ The outcome of the line editing phase is an almost-final product.
3>> Proofing
Proofreading is the process of reviewing the final draft of a piece of writing to ensure consistency and accuracy in grammar, spelling, punctuation, and formatting. It is your last line of defense and it is critically important to have done after changes and edits have been dispositioned and comments addressed. At this point, the copyeditor will also address any remaining internal inconsistencies in formatting.
➡ The outcome of the “polishing” phase are a final manuscript and the document’s Style Sheet.
For a chuckle and see why this phase is so important, click below.