Understanding Different Kinds of Editing

Improving your Writing by Rewriting, Copy Editing and Proofreading

Sep 27, 2008 Helen Brain

Editing can be roughly divided into three categories - content editing, copy editing and proofreading. All are important skills for writers to learn.

Editing and proofreading are important steps in the writing process. But what exactly is the difference between the various kinds of editing?

Content Editing

The most difficult kind of editing is content editing. It’s sometimes called structural or developmental editing, and it involves thinking about the text as a whole. Is the structure well balanced? Should chapters be shifted around? Could sections be cut, or do scenes need to be expanded?

Does the plot make sense and are the characters fully developed. Do they behave in ways that are consistent with their personalities? Has the full potential of each scene been developed, so that the reader is drawn in emotionally through the senses, helping them to engage with the story? Have the themes been expressed sufficiently, without overplaying them to the point of tedium?

While the author can do some structural editing him or herself, many writers find that they need a professional eye to advise them on rewriting. This is usually done by the editor, who is chosen by the publisher, once the book has been accepted for publication, for his or her expertise in this kind of manuscript. Professional content editors specialize in one particular category of writing, such as adult fiction, children’s fiction, picture books, children’s non fiction, academic writing, coffee table books, etc. They are experts in how to structure and develop manuscripts.

Copy Editing

Copy editing is sometimes called line or stylistic editing. The author goes through the manuscript line by line, correcting grammatical and spelling errors, and ironing out inconsistencies. Copy editing also entails checking that all the facts in the manuscript are correct. In children’s books it involves rewriting where necessary to meet the reading level of the intended readership, cutting unnecessary words, changing sentences from passive to active voice where possible, and clarifying meaning.

When getting ready to submit a story to a publisher, it's also important to check that the layout is consistent – that the headings are all in the same size font, that the paragraphs are indented equally, and that the manuscript is in double spacing and follows any other guidelines given by the publisher.

Proofreading

Proofreading is the last stage of editing. It is a final check of the manuscript to make sure that no mistakes have slipped through the editing processes, or been introduced if the layout has changed.

Let the Manuscript Rest

Before beginning any editing it’s important to take a break from writing. Once the first draft of the story is finished, put it away for a month or six weeks, or longer if possible, and let it rest. After a break it will be clearer which changes need to be made.

Ready to start editing? You can learn how in a three step process starting with Editing for Theme and Structure.

The copyright of the article Understanding Different Kinds of Editing in Writing for Children is owned by Helen Brain. Permission to republish Understanding Different Kinds of Editing in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

Dave Writing