A stylistic editor (also known as a line editor) and a copy editor both focus on how the author uses language.
A stylistic editor focuses on the flow, style and readability of a manuscript, trying to find the best language to tell the story while being attentive to the author’s individual style. Working line-by-line (and for that reason, the job is sometimes called line editing), they tighten up sentence structure so that the language is clear and sharp. Their goal is to help the author get across what the author wants to get across.
A copy editor also works line-by-line. But unlike a stylistic editor, a copy editor looks at the text at the technical level, correcting errors in grammar, style and punctuation. They also check for consistency and continuity of facts in the author’s story.
Once a distinct step in the editing process, stylistic editing is now often rolled into structural editing or copy editing or both. I offer editing services where stylistic editing and copy editing are separate services and where they are combined.
Stylistic Editing (Line Editing)
Focussing on word choice and syntax and how they contribute to the tone or emotion of a scene (or manuscript), as a stylistic editor, I would:
identify any stylistic issues (e.g., jargon, cliches and euphemisms)
edit for appropriate language and reading level for the intended audience, medium and purpose
edit for tone, mood, style and voice
work to clarify meaning and to ensure coherence and flow
I would not:
look at the organization and structure of a manuscript; I would assume the manuscript has already undergone a structural edit
edit for spelling, grammar, punctuation and other mechanics of style
What you may expect from me:
a stylistically-edited manuscript in Microsoft Word (.doc or .docx) that has been marked up using the Track Changes and Comments features with my notes, suggestions and any questions that I may have
an editorial letter or memo explaining my suggested edits
Copy Editing
As a copy editor, I would:
edit for spelling, grammar, punctuation and other mechanics of style
check for inconsistencies of story
develop an editorial style sheet (or follow one if an editorial style sheet has been provided)
query (but not correct) organizational and structural problems
query (but not correct) verbose or confusing passages
I would not:
make any structural or stylistic edits, unless previously agreed
check the accuracy of facts and data; I would only check the accuracy of general information and correct or query as required
What you may expect from me:
a copyedited manuscript in Microsoft Word (.doc or .docx) that has been marked up using the Track Changes and Comments features with my notes, suggestions and any questions that I may have
an editorial style sheet (if one has not been provided)
For a combined stylistic and copy edit, what you may expect from me:
a stylistically and copyedited manuscript in Microsoft Word (.doc or .docx) that has been marked up using the Track Changes and Comments features with my notes, suggestions and any questions that I may have
an editorial letter or memo explaining my suggested edits
an editorial style sheet (if one has not been provided)
