In all jobs the first hour is free. I’ll make general comments or suggestions for your document or edit a sample of it. If you’re interested in having more, I will then give an obligation-free quote. I hope my comments are helpful regardless of whether you decide to engage me to do more.
Editing is usually divided into three stages: structural editing, copyediting and proofreading.
Structural (substantive) editing means suggesting improvements to the length, structure, content and character of the document as a whole considering its purpose and intended readers. For example, it will ensure that:
- the length and level of detail suits readers’ needs and assumed knowledge
- the story or line of argument is clear and complete; nothing important is missing
- the order of material and the structure of sections and headings is logical and supports the line of argument
- the overall character conveyed by the use of language (for example neutral, formal, academic) is appropriate for readers’ needs.
Copyediting means checking the document line by line to ensure that:
- spelling, grammar and punctuation are correct
- the intended meaning is clear
- language is used consistently to convey the desired character
- styles for elements other than normal text, such as headings, tables, captions and block quotes, are used consistently
- the style for words follows an agreed style sheet on matters such as use of capital letters, hyphens, numerals, italics and rendering of specialist terms.
Proofreading means checking all other details—for example, there are no typographical errors; pages, headings, tables, illustrations, captions, notes and references are correctly numbered and styled; cross-references are accurate; in-text citations match the reference list; hyperlinks work; the table of contents matches the document.
The borders between structural editing, copyediting and proofreading are not bright lines, and authoritative sources don’t always agree on which details belong in which category. So it’s important that we consult thoroughly to have a clear mutual understanding about the sort of intervention you’d like.