Copy Editing

Description

Editing for grammar, usage, spelling, punctuation, and other mechanics of style; checking for consistency of mechanics and for internal consistency of facts; inserting head levels and approximate placement of art; editing tables, figures, and lists; editing preface or foreword; editing captions or credit lines; providing front matter (prelims); seeking approvals from clients’ representatives; and negotiating changes with Author. Changes will be drafted to the electronic manuscript. Note: “Copy editing” is often loosely used to include stylistic and even structural editing, fact checking, and mark-up. It is not so used in this order. These other tasks must be specified or ordered separately.

A Copy Edit:

• Corrects spelling, grammar, punctuation, and syntax;
• Ensures consistency in spelling, hyphenation, numerals, fonts, and capitalization;
• Flags ambiguous, illogical, factually incorrect statements (especially important for non-fiction);
• Ensures key terms are handled consistently;
• Flags inappropriate figures of speech;
• Tracks internal consistency so there aren’t discrepancies within the logic of the narrative such as timing, setting, character traits, etc.