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Editing: types, stages and what to skip
Every writer needs an editor
A client once remarked to me that if someone were to edit her work, she would need to feel respected. Harsh edits are great as long as they’re purpose-driven.
I couldn’t agree more and can relate.
I remember my first job as a reporter a hundred years ago: An editor rewrote my entire article in her voice. I asked her to delete my byline and use hers. She was the worst editor I ever worked with. I strongly believe editors help writers become better communicators. But they should never change a writer’s voice and only adjust the tone when needed.
So, when working with client copy, I edit for content flow and accuracy, overall structure, correct grammar and spelling. Then I share a consistent style guide. (You can download my Word style guide template and customize it; here are examples of some editing projects that I have done for my clients).
Writers must find their voice while adhering to basic stylistic guidelines that are content-specific to their needs. I wouldn’t want any writer that I work with to sound the same and be interchangeable. That said, editing is…
