What Makes a Great Copyeditor?

Here’s my take on the most important skills a copyeditor can provide.

As a publisher, you value a copyeditor who:

• knows your style guide inside and out
• knows how to query: respectfully, directly, conciselyView Page
• knows when to query: covers all the bases, but does not ask about things that are covered in the style guide, nor explain every edit
• uses good editorial judgement concerning when to apply language rules and when to leave text “as is”
• is perceptive to the nuances of the author’s voice and writing style
• is up to date on technical skills
• has exceptional organizational and communication skills
• delivers your project on time, with a great cover letter and a smile!

Some additional qualities that an independent author looks for are:

• assurance that I will not change or trample your unique voice and style of writing
• good communication from start to finish regarding schedule, contractual details, costs
• a finished product that exceeds your expectations

Hidden Hand Editing | 206.769.8780 | hiddenhand@comcast.net