Editing 101: So, Just What Does an Editor Do?

This post was originally created a few years ago, but it bears repeating today.

So, you've heard the term "editor," and you just might be wondering just what an editor does? Well, wonder no further! Below is a recap from an earlier blog post that will give you the breakdown on the services that an editor will offer. Please note, however, that not all editors offer all of these services. (And many editors specialize in a specific genre and may not offer editing services in any but that one and perhaps one or two more).

As a recap, editing services can be used for resume writing, academic papers/manuscripts, and longer manuscripts such as fiction and non-fiction. Not every editor will be equipped to work in every area or genre, so be aware of this as you make your choice of the perfect editor for your one-of-a-kind piece.

Basic editing services can be broken down into three categories:

• Content editing:

            A good content editor will edit for general flow, continuity, and basic "readability" of

            your work. For example, a good content editor will ask questions that will help clarify

            your goals, as well as check that the idea you started out with is the idea you address

            throughout your manuscript, and that your work flows smoothly from beginning to

            end.

• Copy, or line editing:

             A good copy, or line editor will read your manuscript through one word at a time and

             ensure that your sentences are well constructed, your word choice is the best it can

             be, and that your grammar is top notch.

• Proofreading:

            A good proofreader will check for spelling errors, typos, and that your general format

            is correct.