Copy editing vs. Proofreading
Copy editing is the stage where almost all mistakes have been found and corrected. Copy editors look at every word, letter, and punctuation mark and expect to make substantial–yet small–changes to the manuscript.
Proofreading is the final editing stage where a fresh, experienced set of eyes reviews the manuscript. Proofreaders often save authors from embarrassing and simple mistakes.
What do Copy Editing services include?
Your copy editor will perform these services when reviewing your manuscript:
- Correct any typos, especially spelling, grammar, punctuation, and syntax errors
- Fill in missing words
- Make new paragraphs to break up long passages
- Ensure consistent spelling, hyphenation, numerals, fonts, and capitalization
- Flag ambiguous or factually incorrect statements (crucial for non-fiction)
- Track larger concerns like discrepancies in your plot, setting, and character traits
Overall, your copy editor will impose a consistent style for your text. Most editors use The Chicago Manual of Style as preferred unless the work needs to conform to an academic convention such as APA, AMA, or MLA.
At $7 per page, copy editing will save you time and money in the long run.