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Glossary of Skills

Frequently Used Editorial Terms

Copyediting

Reading a manuscript line by line to correct spelling, punctuation, grammar, and syntax and to clarify/resolve inconsistent references. Copyediting can also involve reading a manuscript to improve style, which may mean deleting unnecessary words, substituting new words for incorrect or awkward ones, and rearranging sentences within paragraphs.

Developmental editing

Working with the author(s) to develop a manuscript and ensuring that the finished manuscript meets the publisher’s requirements.

Indexing

Reading and analyzing a text in order to assemble a systematic guide, for use by various readers, to the names and substantive concepts contained in the text; these are represented by individual and grouped entries arranged in an easily searchable order, such as alphabetical, chronological, or numerical.

Editing an index involves assessing its overall usefulness, thoroughness of coverage, logic, and consistency. The indexer or editor evaluates components such as main headings, double-posted entries, cross references, punctuation, accuracy of page references (based on a fair sampling), and the reader-friendly layout of typeset index pages.

Proofreading

Reading typeset galleys and/or page layouts (usually against a copy of the final manuscript) to correct typographical errors and to call problems and inconsistencies to the attention of the editor and/or publisher.

Research

Using public and private resources to gather information on a given subject; compiling that information in a format to be presented to an author or publisher.

Rewriting

Reading a manuscript or collection of materials with the aim of recasting the ideas into a readable format, such as a book or an article. The finished product may bear little resemblance to the original materials.

Substantive editing

Reading a manuscript to suggest changes in the structure of the material; for example, creating a new outline, proposing additions or deletions, recommending changes in tone or emphasis, and inserting such aids to readability as headings, italic or bold type, and lists.

Translation editing

Copyediting, substantive editing, rewriting, or proofreading material that is not in English or was not originally in English.

Index

This index is organized under frequently sought editorial skills and areas of expertise. For more information about a particular editor, see the Members Directory.