I work as a development editor, copy-editor, and proofreader.

Development editing means looking at your writing project from a broader perspective: listening to the voice, considering the structure, and analysing the argument. The editor will consider these questions, among others:

  • Is the voice fit to purpose?
  • Is the argument persuasive and cohesive?
  • Does the structure work?
  • Can it be pared down? Is there anything missing?

A development edit may mean reorganising and/or rewriting. Any substantial changes will be done in consultation with the client, if appropriate.

Copy-editing means reviewing the text to make sure it effectively communicates with its audience while reading smoothly and accurately. A copy-editor will:

  • ensure the structure makes sense
  • check that the chapters, headings, footnotes, and appendices are helpful and accurate
  • identify and query possible inconsistencies of fact
  • check and track usage, spelling, and punctuation
  • read for style, including sentence structure, passive voice, use of quotations, etc.
  • check spacing, fonts, and formatting
  • ensure any graphs, images, and illustrations are supportive and identified clearly
  • flag any legal issues, such as possible plagiarism or libel (note that ultimate liability for such problems lies with the publisher and author)

After a copy-edit, your text will be clear, concise, and correct, ready to be laid out on page or on a website.

Proofreading is the final review of your text, ideally on page or on draft web pages, before publication. Any changes will be evaluated for what delay or cost they may imply. A proofread checks:

  • spelling and punctuation
  • accuracy
  • consistency in content and formatting
  • pages, headings, and chapters
  • any problems with line or page breaks, including widows and orphans

I can proofread by tracking changes in Word, marking up a PDF, or making corrections by hand, as is your preference.

Further information on the different types of editing can be found here.

NOTE: These categories are not fixed. You might want an enhanced copy-edit, which would include some guidance on the broader picture. You might feel your text is exactly where you want it to be, so you want a copy-edit/proofread combination. You might be ready to publish, but want a proofreader to give it a final review.

Any of these combinations, plus others, are possible. If you are unclear what you are after, we can discuss your objectives and come up with a work brief together.

 

 

Contact me:
christen@urban-edits.com
+44 (0) 7773 556 650