Blog

You have your manuscript written with the mind to publish it, hold on! You need it edited first! You do not know what type of editing you need to be done, this is for you!

The editing process varies per the need of the writer, hence the types of editing.

• Developmental Editing

This type of editing is the initial stage of editing that focuses on the framework of the manuscript or written content. Structural edits are done to ensure the organization of content; which portrays the introduction, body, and conclusion. The style applied to the content is also checked to ensure they provide clarity and comprehension. Developmental editing is vital because it sets the foundation of well-written content that is clear, accurate, understandable, and relevant.

• Line Editing

This type of editing as the name implies focuses on line-by-line editing to check for mechanical errors such as word order, punctuation, capitalization, and spelling. This editing ensures that the writer has a consistent flow and point of view as intended based on the message being passed across. The tone, clarity, and accuracy of the written content are also important to check at this editing stage.

• Copy Editing

Copy editing is the type of editing that is considered after either developmental and/or line editing have been done. This implies from the name that the written content is a sample to be printed. This stage of editing fixes typographical errors related to punctuation, spelling, and grammar. Inconsistencies in the style of writing are also addressed under copy editing so as to provide clarity to the readers. This editing ensures smooth transitions and removes wordiness. Finally, the sample should be readable and strictly organized according to the tone and style of the publication's guidelines.

• Proofreading

Proofreading is the editing before publication. This final stage considers the following edits; grammar, spelling, punctuation, capitalization, formatting, and layout. The final draft of the manuscript will be ready after proofreading is done because errors or mistakes are already removed.

The process of editing is nonnegotiable so as to avoid publishing low-quality content that requires revision due to avoidable errors.