Let’s be clear: AI can do a lot in the realm of editing - but it can’t replace the human touch. My role is to bring that essential element, ensuring your words carry your true voice and that readers connect with the heart of your message.
I help your work enter the world with clarity, authenticity, and alignment to your mission.
Editing isn't a one-step process. Think of it as four key passes, each designed to refine your work from big-picture clarity to final polish. Depending on your individual needs, I can work with you at any one of these stages - or all of them. You might only need a developmental edit to strengthen your structure, or perhaps a copy edit to add that final layer of professionalism. By the end, you'll have a manuscript that's publication-ready; whether you plan to upload, print, or simply enjoy the finished creation.
The Four Phases of Editing
1. Developmental [Structural] Editing
The first stage of editing focuses on the “big picture.” Here, your work is read in its entirety to ensure it makes sense for your intended audience. Structural issues, gaps, or confusion are identified before any finer detail editing begins.
A developmental edit looks at:
- Overall structure
- Plot or setting (for fiction)
- Subject and argument flow (for non-fiction)
- Character or concept development
- Introduction and conclusion
- Scene or content changes where needed
2. Line [Content] Editing
Once the structure is sound, the focus shifts to style and flow. A line edit refines how your words come across on the page, ensuring your message is not only clear but compelling.
This stage addresses:
- Sentence structure and rhythm
- Dialogue cohesion and punctuation
- Word choice and phrasing
- Consistency of voice or style
- Effective, engaging language use
3. Copy Editing
Often confused with proofreading, copy editing is a deeper dive into accuracy and precision. This stage ensures your text is polished, professional, and publication-ready.
A copy edit focuses on:
- Grammar, punctuation, and spelling
- Fact-checking and consistency
- Correctness of references (table of contents, footnotes, bibliography)
- Avoiding overused or repeated words
- Accuracy of timelines or chronology
- Proper sequencing of chapters and page numbers
4. Paper Edit – The Final Pass
The last step is a printed-page review. Reading your work in print makes it easier to spot lingering errors and confirm that text, images, and diagrams align properly. This final pass ensures nothing has been missed and that your manuscript looks exactly as it should before release.
Proofreading is the last line of defence between your manuscript and your readers. It's a meticulous review that catches the small but crucial details that can undermine even the strongest content - typos, formatting inconsistencies, misplaced punctuation, and awkward line breaks.
Give Your Work a Final Polish
Unlike editing, proofreading doesn't change your content or structure. Instead, it ensures everything is clean, correct, and ready for publication. Whether you're preparing a book, a website, a business document, or marketing material, proofreading gives you confidence that your work will make the right impression.
This stage is especially important after layout or design work, when new errors can slip in during formatting. A fresh pair of eyes at this final stage can make all the difference.