The terms ‘copy-editing’ and ‘proofreading’ are often misunderstood. The lists below give some general guidance about what each process might involve.
Copy-editing – I can:
- Check for spelling, punctuation and grammar errors, and ensure that any chosen conventions (such as -ise / -ize endings) are applied consistently.
- Make suggestions to improve readability and reader engagement with your content, while always retaining your voice.
- Apply a given house style or work with you to prepare a bespoke style guide.
- Prepare a list of main characters/locations in your fiction and check that their descriptions are consistent.
- Perform basic fact-checking (dates, historical accuracy, etc).
- Edit for clarity using Plain English recommendations.
- Check any references, footnotes, bibliography, etc.
- Add mark-up and formatting to assist with layout.
Proofreading – I can:
- Check for spelling, punctuation and grammar errors and ensure consistent usage.
- Apply a given house style or prepare a bespoke style guide.
- Check any cross-references, footnotes, etc.
- Check page numbering.
- Check numbering, position and captions of tables, illustrations, etc.
- Check that formatting and page layout are consistent and conform to the required style.
