Types of Editing
There are different types of editing, and not all editors offer the same services. Plus, how one editor defines a specific type of edit may vary from how another editor defines it. It’s important to ask for specifics before entering into an agreement with an editor.
Content Editing
This is what I look for in a content edit:
checking for text organization, transitions, readability, style issues, language fit to audience, development of ideas, paragraph and chapter arrangement, section headers, focus, identification of missing source information, verification of Bible text and references of quoted scriptures
Line Editing
This is what I look for in a line edit:
proofreading plus checking for consistency, best word choice, sentence structure, consistent verb tense, appropriate paragraph and sentence length, clichés, unnecessary modifiers, repeated words and phrases, point of view issues
Proofreading
correct punctuation, grammar, and spelling
Developmental Editing
While I don’t offer developmental edits, this is an extremely valuable service, especially for new writers and those writing in a genre that is new to them.
This how developmental editing is defined in this article: What Is Developmental Editing? The Writer's Guide to Developmental Editing
“Developmental editing, also called substantive editing (and less often structural editing), involves feedback on the big picture of a novel, nonfiction book, or other writing piece. A developmental editor will critique structural elements like the plot, characters, theme, and organization of ideas. Developmental editing usually happens after the first or second draft of a book.”
Happy Writing!