Line and copyediting

What are line and copyediting?
  • Line editing is about the rhythm of the sentences, sentence structure, and the effect of word choices.
  • Copyediting is about punctuation, grammar, clarity, correctness, cohesion, consistency, and adhering to a style guide.

I provide these as a bundle for independent authors – to me it’s one service. This is not the case for all editors or publishers.
When should I hire a copy editor?
  • Have you sent your story to several beta readers and revised according to their feedback?
  • Has your story been developmentally edited and have all the plot twists been sorted out?

If the answer to both questions is yes, your story is probably ready for line and copyediting.

If the answer to both questions is no, consider getting either a beta read or a manuscript critique before moving to a copyedit.

Why? There’s no point fixing the grammar if there are structural issues that need to be resolved first.
What’s covered?
Detail-oriented topics such as:
  • grammar
  • punctuation
  • spelling and hyphenation
  • word choice
  • ensure that the text adheres to a style guide, either The Chicago Manual of Style, or Oxford/New Hart’s Rules

Here's what you get:
  • In-text comments and edits using Track Changes within the manuscript to illustrate potential changes
  • A style sheet showing all of the decisions made about capitalization, spelling, hyphenation
  • A work plan with steps to help you revise