Line/Copy Editing

Line editing and copy editing are often what people think of when they prepare for “editing” their manuscript. Traditionally, these are completed in two separate phases, but the trend toward combining them has become more and more popular. When a publisher reaches out asking for a line edit, I always take that to mean “line and copy edit.” And when a publisher asks for a “heavy copy edit,” I likewise interpret that they are looking for a line edit.

What’s the difference?

Line editing focuses on the writing itself, ensuring it is clear, effective, engaging, accurate, and that it adheres to and strengthens the author’s voice, style, and tone. Changes may be made at the sentence or paragraph level to cut down on clunky repetition, expand where clarification is needed, and improve the text’s rhythm and flow.

Copy editing, much like proofreading, deals with issues pertaining to spelling, grammar, punctuation, syntax, formatting, and other technical errors. Unlike proofreading, this work is done prior to the manuscript being formatted and goes beyond the basic conventions of spelling and grammar to address issues with consistency: Is an ice cream shop referred to as Mitzy’s Scoops in one place and Molly’s Scoops in another? Does the character’s age line up with the year provided for his birth? Are verifiable dates and historical events accurate?

To avoid confusion and ensure you’re getting the best result possible, I’ve combined my line and copy editing services into one package. Please note that while I occasionally accept prescriptive nonfiction projects at this level, I primarily work on novels and memoirs at the line/copy editing stage.