Scope of Work and Samples

To better understand the various levels of copyediting and get a feel for my style, I've outlined the scope of work for each level and attached samples for your reference.

Light/Baseline Editing

At this level, I correct spelling, punctuation, and grammatical errors, as well as the incorrect usage of words, and I verify cross-references. I also make sure spelling, grammar, capitalization, abbreviations, etc., are consistent, and that lists are in the proper sequence (i.e. alphabetical or numerical order). I only check content to detect spots where copy is missing or inaccurate but do not rewrite text or add text to accomplish smoother transitions for structure.

BASELINE SAMPLE - ORIGINAL

BASELINE SAMPLE - REDLINE

BASELINE SAMPLE - FINAL

Medium Editing

At this level, I do everything listed for Light/Baseline Editing plus:

Change text and headers for parallel structure (expressing similar ideas in similar ways)
Make note of inappropriate figures of speech
Check that any previews or summaries match the content
In fiction manuscripts, make sure the plot progresses, and check the consistency in character traits and storylines
Enforce style and tone throughout an entire body of work
Change passive voice to active voice when it is required
Make note of incorrect statements

SAMPLE DOCUMENT - ORIGINAL

SAMPLE DOCUMENT - REDLINED

SAMPLE DOCUMENT - FINAL

Heavy/Substantive Editing

At this level of copyediting, I do everything listed for Medium Editing plus:

Get rid of any wordiness
Make transitions smoother
Rearrange sentences to make the text easier to read
Assign new levels to headers to achieve logical structure
Suggest additions and deletions both at the sentence and paragraph levels

SAMPLE BLOG - BEFORE

SAMPLE BLOG - AFTER