Line Editing, the more you know…

To understand line editing, we really need to review where it falls in the process.

Typically, it’s the second edit; after developmental and before copyediting and proofreading. Often times though, it’s combined with copyediting and a strong case can be made that this makes total sense.

Line editing is sometimes referred to as stylistic editing. A manuscript will be reviewed sentence-by-sentence because this is the phase where we’re looking at the language itself. Is it concise? Does it flow well?

What to expect from a line edit?

• Clarity, flow and transitions

• Sentence-by-sentence editing

• Consistency

• Recommendations for rewrites and reorganization at the sentence and paragraph level

• Style, language and phrasing

What not to expect from a line edit?

• Significant punctuation and “word level” changes; this is copyediting

• Plot and character development recommendations; this is developmental editing

Of course, line editors will fix grammatical and mechanical errors too because it’s hard to restrain ourselves, and this is where the functions between line and copyediting can become blurred. If you want both, make sure that’s communicated up-front because your editor will need to price out the project accordingly, and allow adequate time! No one needs that kind of surprise or disappointment.

A few things to remember when finding the right editor:

Benjamin Franklin said it best…

“The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten.”

There’s a huge range in what editors will charge; anywhere from $.005/word to $.04/word, so be diligent while interviewing your editor. Those in the bottom range, or right off the bottom of the chart, likely lack experience, they may not be trained, they have no knowledge of your genre, or they solely use editing technology and not human brainpower! Any editor worth hiring will be transparent about their process, including how many rounds of editing you’re getting. Most responsible editors will do AT LEAST two full rounds, and probably more if you’re asking for line and copyediting combined.

I hope this has provided you with some understanding about what line editing actually is. Personally I LOVE the challenge of a line and copyediting combination, and it would be my great pleasure to provide editing services to you on your manuscript!

Giving wings to your words,

Chris Bird