Understanding Editorial Services: A Comprehensive Guide

What’s the difference between editorial services? When it comes to editorial services, it can be difficult to know what you need. What do the different editorial services mean and when do you need them?

This blog post introduces the different services that I offer and what you can expect from me. It’s important to note that there is no set definition of the editing services that others offer and we all work slightly differently. If you are unsure, you can always ask for a free sample edit.

To help illustrate my services, author Chloe Keto (www.chloeketo.uk) wrote a short story for me. I have introduced some errors and changed things to illustrate my services. Do check out Chloe’s website and Twitter.

Developmental editing

What is developmental editing?

Developmental editing, or structural editing, addresses big picture elements in your writing. Whether you are writing fiction or non-fiction, a developmental edit will address:

This is more than a beta read. This is detailed feedback that you can use to move forward with your writing. You’ll get notes, both in the manuscript and in a report, to help you further develop your writing and make the most from your idea.

Developmental editing is not about taking your writing away from you. It is about making suggestions and reading as a critical friend. Unlike your Aunty Betty who might have to be tactful when making suggestions, a developmental editor can sensitively and professionally work with you to improve your writing.

What does it look like?

Download the sample developmental edit.

When I developmentally edit, I leave comments in the manuscript and, can make suggestions using track changes too. You will also receive a feedback report which covers my suggestions for global changes. You can download my template here but remember that each project is different so your report will be unique to you!

Copyediting

What is copyediting?

Copyediting ensures your manuscript is clear, concise and consistent, giving your readers a great reading experience. Copyediting gives you the confidence to publish your words knowing your manuscript is free from errors and issues. 

My copyediting focuses on: 

Getting your writing correct is the final, and often most visible, part of the copyediting process. Here, the copyeditor will address spelling, punctuation and grammar. They will also check some facts (yes, even in fiction your facts are important) and ensure that your plot and story are as consistent and correct as they should be (if your character has brown eyes in chapter three, they need to still have brown eyes in chapter thirty-three!).

What does it look like?

Download the sample copyedit.

When I copyedit, I use track changes to make suggestions as well as leaving comments. Along with this, I will create a style sheet and provide you with feedback and queries. You can download these templates, too.

Proofreading

What is proofreading?

Like copyediting, proofreading checks for consistency and correctness in spellings, punctuation and grammar. It also checks formatting, page numbers, correct layout and for any missing elements that may have fallen off during the typesetting stage.

What does it look like?

Download the sample proofread.

When I proofread, I use track changes to make suggestions and corrections as well as leaving comments if it’s something I cannot resolve at a proofread. I will work with your style sheet and provide you with feedback and queries. You can download these templates.

I can proofread in both Word and PDF page layouts, depending on how you are publishing.

Other services I offer

Beta reading

Authenticity reading

Typesetting and formatting

Ready to publish? With my typesetting and formatting service, I can prepare your manuscript for self-publishing services.

Editorial services for fiction and non-fiction authors, businesses and organisations.