Glossary

While Editor and Proofreader are two terms that are often used interchangeably, they are not the same. The following glossary is based on Editors Canada information.

Proofreading:  Examining material after layout or in its final format. It includes:

    • focusing primarily on the words
    • ensuring there are no grammar, spelling or punctuation errors
    • checking line breaks
    • reviewing the consistency and continuity of visible elements, such as  cross-references and captions
    • ensuring there is no deviation from provided style guides

Copy/Content Editing: Editing to ensure correctness, accuracy, consistency and completeness. It includes:

    • editing for grammar, spelling, punctuation and usage
    • checking for consistency and continuity of mechanics and facts, including anachronisms, character names and relationships
    • editing tables, figures and lists
    • developing a style sheet or following one that is provided
    • correcting or querying general information that should be checked for accuracy

Stylistic Editing: Editing to clarify meaning, ensure coherence and flow and refine the language. It includes:

    • eliminating jargon, clichés and euphemisms
    • establishing or maintaining the language level appropriate for the intended audience, medium and purpose
    • adjusting the length and structure of sentences and paragraphs as necessary
    • establishing or maintaining tone, mood, style and voice or level of formality

Translation/Comparative Editing:  Basic comprehensive and stylistic editing, but also involves:

    • editing and cross-proofing between original language and translated product
    • ensuring content in both languages is grammatically correct and without errors
    • ensuring the translated copy is faithful to the original and accurately reflects the intent and message of the original material
    • ensuring the tone and voice are maintained throughout

Web Editing: Editing and updating the content of web pages, including text, images and links. It includes:

    • checking links to ensure they point to the right places
    • checking that link text accurately reflects where the link goes
    • reorganizing or revising print copy for the web
    • editing or rewriting web copy in accordance with web-writing best practices
    • identifying potential copyright issues