Types of editing

Proofreading

Proofreading should be done when the writing is finished and editing has been done. The goal of proofreading is to check spelling, typography, and accuracy of transcription into the document’s final form.

Copy editing

Copy editing is concerned with checking spelling, grammar, punctuation, and usage. Minor changes in phrasing can be made, but in general the copy editor does not work on improving the writing style and flow. As a rule of thumb, imagine the kind of changes you could make to a document printed double-spaced on paper.

Stylistic or structural editing

These levels of editing are concerned with improving the flow, structure, and expression in the manuscript. If you’re concerned about your writing style and clarity, or you need help with the structure and organization of your document, this is the type of editing you should consider.

Fact checking

The level of fact checking needs to be negotiated, but in general this means checking:

• spelling of names and places;
• addresses and phone numbers;
• quotations;
• widely known, easily researched facts.

Manuscript evaluation

A manuscript evaluation is a written report that provides the author with feedback on writing style, plot, pacing, characterization, logic, and plausibility.

For more information about levels of editing, see the Editors’ Association of Canada’s definitions of editorial skills.