Copy and Developmental Editing

Copyediting includes:

• correcting spelling, grammar, punctuation, syntax, and word usage while preserving the meaning and voice of the original text
• checking for or imposing a consistent style and format
• reading for overall clarity and sense on behalf of the prospective audience
• querying the appropriate party about apparent errors or inconsistencies
• noting permissions needed to publish copyrighted material
• cross-checking references, art, figures, tables, equations, and other features for consistency with their mentions in the text

*For a complete list of areas covered in copyediting, please click on JD Wordsmith's Complete Editorial Checklist.

Developmental editing includes:

• working with the client and, usually, the author of a book or other document to develop a manuscript from initial concept, outline, or draft (or some combination of the three) through any number of subsequent drafts
• making suggestions about content, organization, and presentation, based on analysis of competing works, comments of expert reviewers, the client's market analysis, and other appropriate references
• rewriting, writing, and researching, as needed, and sometimes suggesting topics or providing information about topics for consideration of authors and client*

*Definitions of copyediting and developmental editing were taken from the Editorial Freelancers Association (2007) Code of Fair Practice, 3rd edition.