Four levels of editing: a brief introduction

Structural editing raises and helps resolve questions about content and the organization of material. The editor can reshape a text or help the author develop it.

Stylistic editing involves the clarity, flow, and tone of the writing. The editor works with the language, line by line, to help it inform and/or engage its intended audience.

Copy editing addresses issues of grammar, accuracy, and consistency (e.g., of spelling and terminology).

Proofreading happens after layout to catch errors in text, design, and images and to make necessary—not optional—corrections.


Note: The lines between levels can be fluid! For example, copy edits often include elements of stylistic editing. Many editors offer multiple levels of editing.

If you want further details, see Editors Canada’s Professional Editorial Standards.

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Disclaimer

This directory provides information only about the members of Editors Atlantic who have asked to be listed. Individual profiles have been provided by the editors.

Editors Atlantic and Editors Canada do not vet the profiles and do not guarantee the accuracy of the information contained in the directory.

Editing is not a regulated sector in Canada. As such, neither Editors Atlantic nor Editors Canada can be held responsible for the quality of work of any editor listed in the directory.