Manuscript Editing

Although the word 'editing' is widely used, in reality, there are different levels and types of editing appropriate for different stages of manuscript development and types of text. Laurel Cohn's comprehensive editorial services cover all types of editing.

STRUCTURAL AND STYLISTIC EDITING

The main role an editor plays is to guide writers (fiction or non-fiction) to realise on the page the full potential of the story they are compelled to tell; to keep them on track to reach their intended destination. This is the stuff of structural and stylistic editing which deals with the larger issues of the book. In this way editors help authors find and hone their voice.

The editor will make suggestions and may propose changes to sentence structures and tighten up consistency of terminology, etc., but if there are structural problems, or if areas need clarification, then the editor usually passes it back to the writer to do the work. There may be a bit of to-ing and fro-ing, and the process can be quite involved.

We are experienced in working with fiction (literary and popular), narrative non-fiction (e.g. memoir, biography), general non-fiction (e.g. reference, educational, how-to books) and children's books. We are happy to answer any questions you may have about the genre of your manuscript.

COPYEDITING

This is the most meticulous form of editing, looking at correct and consistent grammar, spelling and punctuation and consistency of presentation in terms of headings, punctuation marks and titles. A copy editor will also check contents pages and indexes for consistency and correct page references.

PROOFREADING

Proofreading involves checking text that is ready for publication – picking up typographical errors and errors that have crept in through the copy editing process as well as errors of layout and formatting. In addition, a proofreader will check contents pages, preliminary pages and indexes, and front and back covers (where appropriate).

A professional proofreader not only has an eye for detail, but is familiar with publishing conventions and requirements, as well as design and layout issues.