Copy Editing Definitions and Our Copy Editing Round Up

All November we posted on our copy editing services and the feedback was great. Thanks to everyone who responded with questions and interest in our services.

As a result of that feedback, I thought I’d do a quick round up on the topics we covered here on the blog, and then also touch on a few copy editing definitions that we didn’t get a chance to talk much about.

COPYEDITING BLOG POST ROUND UP

In case you weren’t around for our other posts, here’s what you missed:

  1. Consistent Copyediting With Style Sheets (Get a Free Template!)
  2. 10 Tools for Copy Editor’s Toolkit
  3. Tips for Proofreading Web Content
  4. Proofreading Versus Copy Editing
  5. 5 Self-Editing Techniques You HAVE to Try
  6. 10 Reasons You Need to Hire an Editing Service



COPY EDITING DEFINITIONS

Galley - This term dates back to the early days of printing. It refers to a metal tray that holds set type.

Galley proof – The manuscript as set before it goes to the printer. Sometimes just called galleys.

Indexing - The process of creating a list of names, subjects, and dates to be listed and cross-referenced in the “index” of a book.

Light, medium, or heavy edit – Just like it sounds, some content needs more editing than other content.

Query - A question. When it comes to copy editing, the copy editor queries the author about discrepancies or concerns with the content.

Substantive editing – Often referred to as a “heavy edit.” Here, a copyeditor may suggest major changes to the content in addition to formatting and organizational changes.

Typesetting - Just like it sounds, the typesetter is the person who takes the type from your manuscript and places it into the galleys.

PS – No. 2 Pen provides extensive proofreading and copy editing services. Read more about what we do by clicking here: editing services.

PPS – Next month we’ll talk about newsletter writing and newsletter marketing so check back with us or sign up to receive updates straight to your email.


The No. 2 Pen is a full-service writing and communications company. Contact us to discuss your writing projects and editing needs.