San Diego Professional Editors Network
Why You Need an Editor
". . . a writer’s closest ally."
A good editor is a writer’s closest ally.
A publication that contains errors or inconsistencies in content, style, format, or standard English usage distracts the reader and detracts from the credibility of the writer.
Conversely, a carefully edited publication communicates its message clearly and effectively, thus satisfying the reader and bringing credit to the author, business, or professional organization.
Working with an Editor
A professional editor can help businesses, organizations, and authors improve the quality of their publications, from proposals and reports to journal articles and books. An editor’s goal is to produce the best possible manuscript—one that communicates clearly and concisely what the writer wants to say.
Editing Stages
Editorial services range from extensive reworking of a manuscript to final polishing. A typical manuscript progresses though three editing stages: developmental editing, substantive editing, and copyediting. In addition, manuscripts destined for publication may undergo production editing.
: : Explore the levels of editing
Reference Tools
Even editors don't know it all, but they know where to find it! References such as dictionaries and style guides are valuable tools that help every editor do the best job possible. While no one reference has all the answers, a balanced collection of quality reference materials provides the backbone that supports industry.