An Easy-Start Guide to Copy Editing for Authors

Editing as an author is one of the big banes of our existences, but a must. You can't have a finished product without editing, and you can't get there without at least three distinct forms of editing:

• Developmental Editing

• Copy Editing

• Proofreading

Today we will dive into the basics of copy editing, the second phase of editing.

The Basics

Copy editing focuses primarily on sentence structure, syntax, consistency, plot holes, and more. A developmental edit would have caught a majority of plot-related mistakes, but a good copy editor can't miss them either.

A copy editor must have a comprehensive understanding of the Chicago Manual of Style, which is the standard format for most fiction, and be able to point out mistakes in punctuation, grammar, and spelling.

Inconsistencies & Logic

One of the biggest jobs for a copy editor is pointing out inconsistencies in the manuscript. If a character's eyes change from blue to brown halfway through the novel, for example, a copy editor will point this out.

A copy editor will also keep track of the timeline, focusing on logistical and realistic standpoints, as well as making sure pacing throughout the novel stays intact.

A copy editor is a crucial part of the editing process in the publishing world, whether you go the indie route or traditional route. It is critical to make sure you have a well-rounded and complete story.

I provide all three types of editing services, which you can look for here, and request a FREE sample edit to see if we make a good fit. Sign up with your email today to be notified when a new blog post goes live!