Tips and Resources
“The limits of my language mean the limits of my world.” ~ Ludwig Wittgenstein
“Grammar, which knows how to control even kings. ” ~ Molière
As a lifelong lover of literature, avid reader, writer, copy editor, proofreader, and poet, I know how important it is for your content to convey your message. I also know how essential it is that your unique voice is not lost, distorted, or muffled due to poor grammar and punctuation.
Whether you are a business owner, publisher, writer (first-time or super famous already), blogger, etc., you know first impressions not only matter but also only come around once, after all.
Therefore, you want to be sure the impression you are going to make will be a good one.
You also know none of us human beings are perfect and as our thoughts lead the words and rush our fingers to keep up during the process of transfer onto the page, punctuation errors and misspelled words are extremely likely to happen. Bluntly put, they are sure to happen—even if your spelling and grammar skills are superb, and you are a brilliant writer.
Finding the right person to entrust your precious ideas and work with can be very stressful; I know that firsthand, and I have tried to make it easier for you here. Keep scrolling.
“Like everything metaphysical, the harmony between thought and reality is to be found in the grammar of the language.” ~ Ludwig Wittgenstein
“Your grammar is a reflection of your image. Good or bad, you have made an impression. And like all impressions, you are in total control.” ~ Jeffrey Gitomer
Service Rates and Professionals
Copyediting and Proofreading—Overview
Not sure of the difference between the two? Here is a brief overview:
Copyediting is the third stage of the editorial process. It looks at sentence structure, style, consistency, accuracy, repetition, etc. Any necessary developmental or line editing is to be completed before this stage is reached. A copyeditor will rewrite and reconstruct sentences as needed in order to ensure flow and readability. A copyeditor will focus on:
- sentence structure
- style
- consistency
- repetition
- fact-checking/accuracy
- grammar
- spelling
- punctuation
Proofreading is the forth and final stage of editing before a piece of content is published or goes live. Any necessary developmental editing, line editing, or copyediting is to be completed before this stage is reached. This is NOT the stage where different words are suggested or rewriting of sentences takes place (excessive repetition and glaring errors are noted, however). A proofreader will look for items and mistakes that have been missed in previous editorial phases and will not attempt to change your creation or to revise your style. In addition, source content will be assumed to be correct, and the actual material referenced in quotes and citations will not be revised if incorrect. A proofreader will focus on:
- typographical errors
- grammar
- punctuation
- spelling
- missed/omitted words
- double words
- style issues
- general formatting issues
Fictional editors generally utilize the Chicago Manual of Style (CMoS) and its corresponding dictionary—Merriam-Webster Unabridged—to make revisions but will usually use your custom style sheet if you choose to provide them with one. Choose an editor who specializes in the particular genre of your piece.
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