Copyediting. Also known as mechanical editing or light editing. Includes correcting errors in spelling, grammar, syntax, word usage, and punctuation; checking consistency of styles used for numbers, capitalization, hyphenation, lists, tables, captions, and sidebars; verifying cross-references and alphabetical order; and coding for production.
Elaine wields her editorial pencil sharply but always kindly. She is invariably helpful and supportive — everything a writer could wish for in an editor!
Norman E. Rosenthal, MD,
author of Winter Blues
and The Emotional Revolution
Line editing. Also known as stylistic editing or medium editing. In addition to the tasks performed as part of copyediting, includes clarifying meaning; rewording jargon and awkward phrasing; eliminating wordiness; changing passive voice to active voice; flagging inappropriate, ambiguous, or incorrect statements; ensuring parallel structure; rearranging sentences within paragraphs; correcting inconsistencies in writing style and tone; and flagging discrepancies in plot, setting, and character traits.
Substantive editing. Also known as structural editing or heavy editing. In addition to the tasks performed as part of line editing, includes rearranging paragraphs, sections, and chapters; smoothing transitions; deleting unnecessary or redundant material; and requesting additional or new material.
Developmental editing. Guiding the author in producing the first draft of a manuscript. (Note: I generally advise fiction writers to join a critique group, where they can get much better help developing their plots and characters, and usually at no charge. Writing workshops and classes are also excellent for beginning and advanced fiction writers alike.)
Cleanup editing. Reading through a manuscript that has already been edited to incorporate the author's replies to the editor's queries, to double-check that nothing has been missed, and to make sure that no new problems have been introduced.
Proofreading. Comparing typeset copy to its manuscript or previous proof; checking format; and correcting errors in spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
