All editing is done electronically in Microsoft® Word (see cautionary note below). An advantage of electronic editing is that all suggested changes and corrections are placed in a revised manuscript and only have to be accepted or rejected rather than reentered. The process of entering changes and corrections often result in additional errors being introduced into the work. For writers who are not familiar with Microsoft® Word editing tools, specifically "Track Changes" mode, IWS will provide a sample edit before asking that a decision be made to accept this approach.
Copyediting often is categorized as light editing and usually is the first stage in the editing process. Copyediting involves discovery and correction of errors in spelling, punctuation, grammar, syntax, incorrect usage, cross-references, and proper sequencing. It also includes identifying and correcting inconsistent references in the manuscript to tables, numbers, articles, books, and other sources.
One of the main purposes of line editing is improvement of the work's flow and readability.
First, copyediting tasks are performed. Then, a thorough review and analysis is made of the writing style employed, word choices, and sentence structure. Inappropriate figures of speech, unnecessary words, and awkward content are identified and eliminated.
Light structural changes are suggested where appropriate. In nonfiction works suggestions are made regarding the formatting and use of tables and lists to ensure consistency, readability, and appropriate references in the text.
Content editing is considered heavy copyediting. It requires higher levels of judgment and advanced rewriting skills. In addition to performing all the copyediting and line editing tasks, the content editor focuses on more extensive content restructuring to ensure greater consistency and improved clarity of the work. Wordiness, triteness, and inappropriate jargon are eliminated. Special attention is given to tracking and maintaining continuity of plot lines, settings, and character traits for fiction works and to consistency of information presented in nonfiction works. The majority of published works have undergone content editing.
Developmental editing involves elemental changes at the paragraph, chapter, and book levels.
Format changes are suggested, and gaps in content and outmoded content are identified as well. An analysis is made of the intended readership and genre to determine the completeness and appropriateness of the content, illustrations, and tables. The developmental editor presents the author with a summary of recommended changes.
Clients' books published 2006-08