What are the different levels of editing?
Proofreading: This involves correcting basic errors (e.g., grammar, spelling, and punctuation).
Copy editing: In addition to the features of a proofread, a copy edit includes rephrasing text where necessary to ensure that the tone is appropriate for the intended audience; language, phrasing, and word choices are consistent; and relevant style guidelines have been followed.
Content editing: In addition to the features of a copy edit, a content edit includes rewriting any awkward or confusing sentences to improve readability and clarity; rephrasing sentences or paragraphs to avoid repetition or redundancy; alerting the author to any content-related issues; and ensuring that any references are cited correctly, in accordance with the relevant referencing style.
Substantive editing: In addition to the features of a content edit, a substantive edit includes significant rewriting, rephrasing, or restructuring to ensure that the document is clear, concise, consistent, and easy to read and understand; writing executive summaries; writing segue sentences or paragraphs to connect different sections of the document; ensuring that multi-authored documents use one consistent "voice" throughout; and identifying and resolving any content-related issues, in conjunction with the author.
We've got a really tight deadline. Can you help us?
It's much easier for us to help you meet your deadlines with a little advance notice, but we know this is not always possible. Include information about your deadline when you contact us and we'll do everything we can to help. If we're not available, we'll let you know straight away so that you can make alternative arrangements.Â
I'm based overseas. Can you help me?
We work regularly with international clients, using the time difference to our advantage to increase efficiency and enable quick turnaround.