When a client asks me to provide a copy edit, this is usually what’s involved unless otherwise negotiated:
- editing for grammar, spelling, punctuation, and usage
- checking for internal consistency within the document
- editing tables, figures, and lists
- querying any information that may need double-checking for accuracy (this can be spelling of names, dates, citations, and facts that trigger my historian’s spidey-sense)
- editing for bias and plain language
- checking that weblinks are operable and lead to the correct site
- flagging awkward constructions and suggesting possible revisions
- querying material that’s unclear or could use further substantiation
- eliminating/reducing jargon, cliches, and euphemisms
- flagging areas of redundancy, both in argumentation and in vocabulary
- ensuring consistent voice, tone, and level of formality throughout the document that’s appropriate for the audience, medium, and purpose
- adjusting the length of sentences and paragraphs to improve readability
- formatting the document to match submission criteria as provided by press, including notes, citations, and bibliographies
Check out my Portfolio for a list of some of the types of works I’ve copyedited.
Jolanta is an excellent copy-editor (in multiple languages) and indexer. A consummate professional with a keen eye for detail. Very transparent and easy to work with. Highly recommended for top-end academic work.
Stuart M. McManus, FRAS 馬思途教授
Assistant Professor of History
Affiliated Scholar, CCTL, Faculty of Law
The Chinese University of Hong Kong