Copyediting

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We will comb through your manuscript looking for problems in spelling, grammar, punctuation, and syntax. 

Keep in mind that every piece is unique, and we like those the best. So, while we adhere to the rules to an extent, when an author effectively breaks them; bye-bye rules! This is what we look for in an author. We seek to balance your unique narrative with consistency, impact, and development. Everything else, sometimes, is just noise. Can we do by-the-book edits? Yes. Do we prefer challenges that go beyond by-the-book formats and constructions? Also yes. We will never erase your voice.

The goal is to correct mistakes, distractions, and inconsistencies in the body of the text.

Many copyediting decisions are made by aligning the text against a style guide, a set of uniform writing practices. Nothing is universal. There is no “right” or “wrong” way to tell your story. We want to help you tell your story in the most effective way possible. Especially if it goes against the grain.

Copyediting is best served after all other manuscript issues—structural and line—are all done, and prior to the final proof.

While line editing we will often catch technical errors in passing, but it’s ultimately within the copyediting process that we handle typos and other mistakes.

In the copyediting phase, we consider practical and mechanical problems of language craft.

The copyedit requires extremely close attention to detail and an excellent command of language. Our go-to is the Chicago Manual of Style, but we are familiar with Associated Press as well as Cambridge and Oxford (for those of you across the pond and across the globe).

We’ll point out potential issues, but of course you’ll have the final say in any applied changes.

Contact us if you are interested in receiving a copyedit.