As a follow up to my previous blog post, What Does an Editor Do, today we will be looking further in-depth on what types of editing services are typically available.

There are typically five editing stages available, including manuscript evaluation, developmental editing, stylistic editing, copy editing, and proofreading. At times, certain stages may overlap.

I currently offer all five stages, namely manuscript evaluation, developmental editing, stylistic editing, copy editing, and proofreading. 

Manuscript Evaluation Stage

• The manuscript evaluation stage is similar to the developmental editing stage, but in a less in-depth and more economical form. Considerations include plot, themes, character development, POV, etc.

Developmental Editing Stage

• In the developmental/structural editing stage, also called substantive editing, the editor often provides assistance in the document’s structure. This means looking at the “big picture.” In fiction, this includes considering plot, narrative voice, point of view, etc.

Stylistic Editing Stage

• Next, in the stylistic editing stage, also known as line editing, the editor focuses on the clarity, meaning, language, and flow of the text.

Copy Editing Stage

• In the copy editing stage, the editor focuses on improving grammar, spelling, consistency, and readability.

Proofreading Stage

• Finally, in the proofreading stage, the editor focuses on reviewing the document in its final stage, following a thorough copy edit. This stage includes both text and design elements. It focuses on flagging typos, minor grammatical issues, punctuation, and capitalization.

Further Services

Some editors with further training or specialized skillsets may also offer additional services. For example, in addition to editing, I offer plain language services, inclusive language services, and sensitivity reading.

Plain Language Services

• Plain language focuses on intended audience and best practices in providing clear and concise language, vocabulary, and style.

Inclusive Language Services

• Inclusive language focuses on ensuring respectful and equitable representation of equity-deserving communities when writing and editing text. This means adhering to best practices and ever-evolving terminology. 

Sensitivity Reading Services

• Sensitivity reading, or authenticity reading, can be defined as hiring a reader from a certain identity, lived experience, or background to read your document or manuscript for inadvertent offensive content, stereotypes, non-inclusive language, bias, and misrepresentation of equity-deserving communities.

Questions? Comments? Contact me for more information about your project needs.